Picture this. It's 2002, and every high street store is a treasure trove of chunky buckled belts and rock chick studded straps. The low-rise jeans craze is in full swing, and the belts are here to ensure they stay in place - at least in theory.
For those who constantly reminisce about the diamanté-dotted days of the early Noughties, there’s no need to do so anymore. Academy Award-winning actress Cate Blanchett has single handedly brought back a relic from the divisive decade, materialising in the form of the XL belt. Possessing the ability to punctuate an outfit in the most garish of ways, the Y2K belt has remained a Marmite piece.
However, Cate unapologetically championed the accessory while stepping out in New York on Monday, turning out two looks that both featured a chunky belt. The Carol star’s first look consisted of a denim set that exuded Seventies style. A dusty blue button-down jacket featuring a nipped-in waist and a sharp pop collar was complemented by a coordinating pair of trousers that gently flared at the hemline.
The retro set, which further showcased utilitarian pocket detailing across the front, was accented by a wide belt, complete with a horizontal tortoiseshell heart emblem and a chocolate brown strap. The actress slipped into a pair of burgundy, croc-effect point-toe heels to complete her Laurel Canyon-inspired aesthetic, accessorising with some black, double-bridged aviators. SEE: Sienna Miller recreates her signature Noughties look MORE: 10 fash.