It's Here: The Hottest Accessory for Denim in 2026

      Welcome to The Great Try-On—your guide to everything you need for a stylish season ahead. The days are becoming longer and warmer, prompting us to curate the ideal spring capsule wardrobe featuring five practical yet trendy key items. A few of our editors tested each of these versatile staples to show you how they look in real life. We've crafted individual stories around the five highlighted categories, showcasing some of your favorite brands, innovative styling tips, and a plethora of outfit ideas. From the season's most stylish basics to the must-have accessory everyone wants, we hope these photos and candid reviews will assist you in selecting a spring wardrobe filled with essentials and contemporary pieces that you'll wear this season and beyond. With winter layers set aside, spring is the moment to refocus on pieces that will elevate our outfits without depending on outerwear. One of these categories is accessories, and we've pinpointed the outfit-transforming trend that has quickly become the season's It accessory: big-buckle belts. Fashion enthusiasts are frequently pairing these belts with denim, making them the latest addition to the rising popularity of Western-inspired items. As is often the case with Western trends, denim is the most natural match for these belts, as seen on the spring/summer 2026 runways of Khaite and Celine. Our editors tested this trend (with denim, of course) and shared their feedback on the big-buckle belts they tried. Keep scrolling to see how much they enhanced their outfits and shop the specific styles they wore.

      One of the standout styles for spring 2026 is the Khaite belt, which our senior fashion editor Anna tried on. Featuring a sculptural buckle, it's an elegantly modern interpretation of the trend. Khaite is known for its exceptional belts, and you can find all the details on this one, along with a stylish way to wear it here.

      Anna's thoughts on the belt: "Honestly, I never viewed myself as someone who would wear a statement belt. My style tends to be minimalist and tailored, especially when it comes to accessories. But if anyone could make me feel confident in a big-buckle belt, it would be Khaite. The designer’s version emanates cool-girl vibes and has a sculptural hardware design that feels more sophisticated than Western-themed. For me, the trick is to wear it cinched with high-waisted items so that it sits closer to my natural waist, which is the most flattering position for a chunkier look."

      Styling advice: A sleek big-buckle belt like the Khaite Keefe Leather Belt deserves equally polished styling. The '90s-inspired pairing of a dark-denim pencil skirt with an elbow-sleeved tee showcases the versatility of this Western accessory. Elegant slingback pumps and a structured handbag ensure the belt remains the focus of the outfit.

      Purchase the belt: Khaite Keefe Leather Belt ($980) If you’re looking to invest in a designer piece that you’ll wear repeatedly this season and beyond, the Khaite Keefe Leather Belt is a choice you won’t regret. The high-quality leather contours to your body, and the domed buckle is crafted from jewelry-grade palladium-plated brass, making it a durable investment that will improve with age.

      Khaite

      Franc Crepe Peplum Jacket

      Khaite

      Keefe Leather Belt

      Khaite

      Kendra Denim Pencil Skirt

      Aeyde

      Camila Slingback Pumps

      CELINE

      Triomphe Sunglasses

      Khaite

      Audrey Crossbody Bag

      Our senior branded content editor Aniyah and associate fashion editor Nikki tested a minimalist version of the big-buckle-belt trend. Here’s what they thought about the belt and how it elevated the look of jeans.

      Aniyah's perspective on the belt: "I've mentioned this before: Western fashion is truly making a comeback. With runway trends, shifts in street style in 2025, and Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter Tour, fashion enthusiasts are drawn to significant elements of Western style like cowboy hats, boots, fringe, suede, and, of course, big belts. This outfit captures some of those essential aspects while still reflecting the NYC street style we love. Funnel jackets are trending, so I styled mine tucked into wide-leg jeans to let this vintage-washed leather belt stand out. The oversized gold buckle adds a pop against the neutral tones in the shoes and jacket. As it warms up, I can see myself pairing this statement belt with distressed and oversized denim shorts, a ribbed tank, and ballet flats."

      Nikki's perspective on the belt: "As a lover of belts, most of the styles I wear are quite classic, typically featuring a simple black leather strap with a gold or silver square or rectangular buckle. However, the spring/summer 2026 collections from Celine, Dior, and Khaite inspired me to explore bolder, trendier styles, particularly those with Western-style elements, like this B-Low