The gaudy, eighties themed belts that took over the scene last year are today as distant a memory as the decade that inspired them.

Enter the skinny belt. Fashionistas are addicted to the daintier, feminine fashion accessory. Super-skinny belts can be worn high above the waist to create a flattering silhouette and are paired with a free flowing maxi dress, a forgiving knit shirt or chunky sweater. Belt loops are even making their way onto suit jackets creating a cinching look.

Comfort is a major and I’m quite certain, a welcomed theme when compared to the corset-sized, rib bruiser belts of 2007. 

While these skinnier belts are still subtler then last year’s version, embellishments, bright, colors and patterns are sure to please. Some versions are extra long and can be looped at the end, another throwback to the ‘80s.

Another accessory climbing the ladder of instant fame is the clutch. Clutches are all over the place this year.  I’m obsessed with them. They seem to take the frump out of any ensemble I put together.  Not just for formal events anymore, oversized clutches can go anywhere.

While you can’t pack as many of your necessities into them, I find it freeing to loose the clutter and weight of the huge hobo style bags of last year. The sizes were getting so out of hand that they began to resemble overnight bags. Whether it was there or not, my ability to find anything in the hobo bag was hindered by the other 3,000 individual items stuffed into that monstrosity.

Burberry, Donna Karen, Michael Kors, Marc Jacobs and Fendi have been really hot on belts and clutches this year, but if you’re not looking to drop a pretty penny, try Forever 21, Steve Madden or H&M.

Last year’s accessories could hardly be considered accessories at all. They seemed to overtake the outfit that they were supposed to be accenting. However, overstating the obvious is now a thing of the past replaced by the chic sophistication that is gracing the catwalk in 2008.