Thursday November 12th, 2026
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When MENA Stars Put Their Best Buckles Forward

A look back at the belts that held their own in some of MENA pop's most memorable celebrity outfits.

Farah Kamel

When MENA Stars Put Their Best Buckles Forward

Belts were never just there to hold an outfit together in the early 2000s. Across Arab pop culture, they became statement accessories in their own right, from oversized logo buckles and rhinestone embellishments to slim leather straps and sculptural metallic details. Worn low over denim, layered into matching sets or used to break up a dress silhouette, they were often the finishing touch that brought an entire look together. And with Arab pop stars setting the tone both on and off stage, their approach to accessorising was anything but understated.

From Haifa Wehbe’s silver-loop leather belt to Nancy Ajram’s studded white number, the archives are full of looks that gave this everyday accessory a starring role. Sherine Abdel Wahab brought designer detailing into the mix with a Christian Dior buckle, while Elissa added a little sparkle with a round blue rhinestone clasp. Revisiting these celebrity moments, we're looking back at the belts, buckles and styling details that made their way into the wardrobes of Arab music's biggest names.

Haifa Wehbe | 2003

Haifa Wehbe paired her low-rise jeans with a slim black leather belt punctuated by oversized silver circular loops, bringing a metallic accent to the look. Between the fitted black spaghetti-strap top and the single black-and-white striped arm warmer, the outfit brought together contrasting textures and details, with the belt tying it all together.

Elissa | 2005

A heavy, burnished leather statement belt studded with ornate, cut-out metallic hardware that sinks low across the hips, anchoring Elissa’s pastel tube top, flowing scarf, and classic denim with quintessential noughties boldness.

Nawal Al Zoghbi | 2000s

Seamlessly built from the very same black fabric as the trousers, the integrated waistband-belt features polished grommets that lock into the denim as a single, uniform statement piece.

Nancy Ajram | 2000s

Nancy Ajram styled a dark-wash denim strapless dress with a white studded belt worn low on the hips, creating a striking contrast against the deep indigo fabric. The flared, pleated hem brought movement to the silhouette, while a small patterned neck scarf introduced another layer of print and texture.

Myriam Fares | 2003

Exuding pure Y2K pop royalty, Myriam Fares pairs a soft, floral-embellished top with low-slung denim in this 2003 aesthetic, masterfully tied together by a shimmering hip belt that defines the look's effortless, high-energy rhythm.

Najwa Karam | 2008

Najwa Karam paired a white Bebe Sport tank top with denim jeans, bringing the look together with a logo-heavy Dolce & Gabbana belt. The statement buckle stood out against the denim, giving the otherwise sporty combination a dose of designer detailing.

Sherine | 2003

Sherine Abdel Wahab brought designer detailing into the mix with a white Christian Dior belt, featuring the house's signature CD buckle. Styled against a purple leather jacket, the accessory added a crisp contrast while giving the outfit a recognisable designer finish that's undeniably 2000s.

Elissa | 2001

Elissa paired a blue-and-brown leopard-print button-up shirt with low-rise dark-wash jeans, finished with a belt featuring a round blue rhinestone buckle. The embellished hardware added a pop of sparkle against the darker denim, picking up on the cool tones in the animal-print shirt.

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