Adding a leather belt to your OOTDs is a quick, often forgotten trick to looking polished in your 30s.  IMAGE Instagram (L) iamhearte (R) kryzzzie  

Belts can do more than keep your loose pants up. This underrated accessory highlights your shape, adds personality to your T-shirt-and-jeans combo, and most importantly, ties your whole look together while keeping you from appearing sloppy.

To help you maximize this wardrobe staple, here are a few of ways to style yours both for work and off-days—plus, the only three essential belt styles you'll ever need in your closet! 

1. Classic leather belt 

You'll never not need a classic black belt in your life.

A leather belt with silver hardware looks casual and low-key. On weekends, it'll complement your denim OOTDs well (and make it feel a bit more put-together, too.) 

FN Tip: Channel some '90s vibes by tucking a black top in a pair of faded denim jeans, and tie the entire look together with a black leather belt: 

IMAGE Uniqlo  

TRY: Uniqlo Women Clean Belt, P1,490, available online  

On the other hand, leather belts with luxe gold hardware bestow a dressier appearance. 

FN Tip: A gold-buckled belt and a black outfit is a no-fail elegant pairing.

IMAGE Zara 

TRY: Zara Belt With Square Buckle, P1,495, available online 

Aside from gold and silver, you can also try an acrylic-buckled belt for a more modern and trendier feel: 

2. Skinny leather belt 

If your regular black belt seems off against your tailored office pants or pristine white shorts, try a skinnier belt. Simple, thin belts add extra interest without overwhelming your look (and your frame); they're the perfect belt type to reach for if you want to maintain a chic appearance.

IMAGE Charles and Keith  

TRY: Charles and Keith Skinny Knot Belt, P999, available online 

Add a pop of color to your all-neutral outfit via a skinny, brown leather belt: 

IMAGE Mango  

TRY: Mango Skinny Belt Pack, P795, available online

3. Wide buckle belt 

Wider belts define the waist the most. This statement piece will come in handy when your dress feels a little too loose and shapeless for you.

Wearing a wide belt underneath your bust will create a curvy silhouette. 

Wide belts look so chic on wrap dresses. The accessory adds a polished touch to the laid-back piece.

IMAGE Mango  

TRY: Mango Snake Buckle Belt, P1,495, available online