News flash: belly chains are officially back on the menu for summer 2023. Here at Cosmo we're in full Y2K revival mode, stocking up on cargo pants, butterfly tops, baguette bags... The full works.
But after seeing our fave celebs - we're talking Kim K, Hailey Bieber and RiRi - in belly chains recently, we're now convinced we need to add some nostalgic jewels to our shopping lists too.
Perfect for sunny szn and holiday wardrobes, the best belly chains will add a touch of sparkle to swimwear lewks, make plain slip dresses look hella fancy and instantly elevate a simple tank top and denim shorts combo too. They are seriously that versatile, people.
We're not staying too true to the OG '90s and Noughties body jewellery looks though. While we appreciate a throwback piccie of Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears styling belly chains, dangle navel rings and stick-on gems with corset tops and distressed low-rise denim, we're doing things a little differently this time around.
Yep, the belly chain has had a bit of makeover for 2023. The mantra is no longer the brasher the better, ladies. Now it's all about delicate figaro and slender snake chains, threaded with subtle beads and crystals, that you can wear solo to add a touch of glam or layer up to make a jewellery statement.
Just look at girl of the moment Hailey Bieber who recently took to Insta to showcase a double belly chain moment. The model was channelling serious Noughties vibes by pairing her body jewels with a cropped baby tee and hip-skimming cargo pants. We're taking note.
Still not convinced you need a belly chain in your life? Keep scrolling to see the best gold, silver, beaded and plus-size belly chains to shop now - along with ALL the celeb styling inspo to get you in the navel-baring spirit.
Gold belly chains are perfect for summer looks - they will instantly add a glow to your skin and quite literally shimmer in the sunlight. If you want to replicate Hailey's layered jewellery look, check out & Other Stories' double belly chain (two pieces for the price of one? Yes please). And we've been seriously excited about Missoma's recent drop of body jewellery: this bobble chain is plated in 18ct recycled gold for a gorge luxe finish.
For all those silver jewellery gals out there, we've also found the best belly chains to match your cool-toned metal aesthetic. Wanna tap into the Y2K trend? ASOS has you covered with its super sweet heart chain, while H&M has nailed beach club accessorising with a tasseled rhinestone waist chain covered in silver-toned diamantés. Kim K and Rihanna would definitely approve
Beaded belly chains are perfect for festivals and beach days - especially if you're worried about metal jewellery tarnishing. We love the addition of faux-pearls, coloured stones and dainty shell charms - thanks to the new Little Mermaid film, mermaidcore is a real trend this summer.
We're pleased to see a HUGE collection of plus-size belly chains online, too. ASOS has a mega collection covering coin styles, butterfly charms and chunky belt chains. But luckily, body jewellery is pretty inclusive anyway (another reason why we LOVE it), with many pieces having extendable chains you can adjust to create the perfect fit.