A beautiful buckle. An invisible belt. A little wearable magic.
In lieu of a belt.
I love working with trompe-l’œil, the art of fooling the eye, and the Emperor’s New Belt is a perfect example. Reproduced from a Victorian belt buckle in beautifully shiny sterling silver, with oxidized engraving and a prong that moves just like a real belt buckle, this statement brooch creates the illusion of a belt without the belt itself. That moving detail makes it look so deceptively real. People think I’m wearing a belt. That’s half the fun.
A buckle with a wardrobe of possibilities
Pin it at the waist of a gorgeous blazer, a little lower for a different effect, or higher at the midriff for a touch of Jackie Kennedy elegance. Wear it at the waistband of beautiful wool trousers or jeans, even low-rise ones.
I also wear vintage kimonos and beautiful vintage men’s robes as lightweight coats, dresses, or over slim-leg trousers, pinning the brooch far to the left for a spectacular asymmetrical look. At the front waist of an ankle-length black winter coat, it’s equally dramatic.
In winter, I wear it on wool scarves or centered on a wonderfully dramatic faux-fur hat. Think Doctor Zhivago, with a little Fables mischief. No belt required.
It’s one of my favorite pieces, and it gets compliments every time I wear it. During my months in London last year, it went from trousers to blazers and out to the theatre with me. Such a small piece to pack, such a lovely way to change an outfit.
This and my silver “pearls” come with me on every trip. Two pieces, very little suitcase space, and so many possibilities.
The details
Shiny sterling silver with oxidized engraving. Approximately 2¾ × 2⅝ inches. Made to order, handmade in the USA, and hand signed.
A brooch, not a functioning belt. The illusion is intentional.
