Every fashion enthusiast knows that Fifth Avenue is one of the best places to go shopping. But here at The New School, Fifth Avenue is more than that — it’s a runway. From statement bags to standout shoes, Fashion on Fifth is here to give you weekly, front row access to some of The New School’s chicest looks. This week, we’re talking about how a simple belt can turn an everyday outfit into a statement look.
Who said belts were just for holding up your pants? With fall fashion in full swing and cozy layers taking over, accessories are taking center stage — and belts are officially back in the spotlight. From shiny studs to vintage buckles, The New School students are using these small but mighty pieces to make big statements.
This week on Fashion on Fifth, we’re taking a closer look at how students are styling their belts, whether thrifted, bedazzled, or straight off Fifth Avenue.
Photo by Hadley Rinaudo
Photo by Hadley Rinaudo
Clara Harsh she/her — @clara.harsh
First-year psychology student at Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts
I stopped Clara as she stepped out of the elevators in the Alvin Johnson/J.M. Kaplan Hall lobby. Her outfit immediately caught my eye: effortlessly confident, a blend of grunge and comfort that just worked. Beneath her oversized hoodie, a studded belt glinted subtly, adding instant edge.
When asked her favorite thing about her belt, she didn’t hesitate: “The studs,” she said with a grin. “It’s so unique.” She explained that she found it at a thrift store a few years ago, and it’s been a staple ever since — one of those pieces that seems to go with everything. “It’s got a bit of wear now,” she added, “but I think that makes it even cooler.”
Clara mentioned she’s a fan of bold accessories but keeps her approach practical. “I mean, I wear it to, like, quite literally hold up my pants,” she said. “But I feel like, just put that shit on if you like it, you know what I mean?”
That’s exactly what makes her style stand out — confident, genuine, and a little rebellious.
Photo by Hadley Rinaudo
Photo by Hadley Rinaudo
Beck Samuelsen he/him — @becksamuelsen
Second-year Journalism + Design student at Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts
I ran into Beck near the Lang Café, and his look was the perfect blend of casual and romantic. A soft suede jacket paired with a heart-shaped belt buckle gave him an easy, quiet confidence that matched his calm smile.
He found the belt at a thrift store back in Vermont for just $15. His favorite part? “Probably the buckle design. It’s very cute. It’s a heart. I love it.”
When asked for styling advice, he shrugged, laughing. “I’m not one to ask. Just have confidence.”
With a belt like that, confidence seems built right in.
Photo by Hadley Rinaudo
Photo by Hadley Rinaudo
Caroline Capuano she/her – @carolineecapuano
Senior Culture and Media major, Journalism + Design minor at Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts
As I headed to the University Center next, I immediately noticed Caroline walking down the stairs from the second floor. Her look embodied understated cool — the kind that feels thrown together but clearly thought through. When she told me her belt was from Free People, she smiled a little sheepishly. “I wish I said a thrift store or something cool,” she said.
Still, it was the texture that caught her eye. “The stars in the middle are a more matte, suede feel, and the leather itself is distressed. … It’s simplistic but it’s out there, you know?”
Her advice on styling belts was simple but bold: “Always wear one.” She explained that even when her belt isn’t visible, it completes the outfit. “Just to know I have it there … kind of gives me an extra pep in my step.”
Caroline proves that simplicity can be powerful — a minimalist’s approach that radiates confidence.
Photo by Hadley Rinaudo
Sandy Stevens she/her
First-year communication design student at Parsons School of Design
As lunch approached, I made my way into the University Center dining hall, where I saw Sandy sporting her fabulous belt. Her outfit was nothing short of theatrical — a perfect blend of textures and shapes. Her belt, thrifted from Goodwill years ago, pulled the look together with effortless artistry. “I like the circles and the colors,” she said. “It matches all my outfits, so I wear it a lot.”
Her styling tip is refreshingly unconventional: “I don’t like [belts] going through jean holes [belt loops],” she said. “I like it just out … one side higher than the other.”
That asymmetry reflects Sandy’s design sensibility — thoughtful, creative, and a little offbeat in the best way possible.
Whether it’s studded, suede, or thrifted with love, belts are proving to be more than just a practical accessory. They’re expressions of identity — small details that say a lot.
From Clara’s punk edge to Sandy’s artful drape, New School students are redefining what confidence looks like. Sometimes, it’s not about what you wear — it’s how you wear it.
