Recession sees rise in sales of belts

London, Aug 9 (ANI): Recession is literally making women tighten their belts, with rise in sales of the item making it the most in-demand fashion accessory.

As sales records show, more than 16 million women bought at least one belt last year. That's equivalent to 41 per cent of the population, reports the Daily Express.

The latest figures, from market analyst Mintel, refer to online sales, and do not include the millions of women who also snapped up belts in stores.

More popular than its nearest rival, the handbag, bought by 36 per cent, sales of women's belts grew by 8.7 per cent in 2008 to 25million pounds.

Celebrities like Cheryl Cole and Kate Moss have helped to boost purchases, as well as a growing desire to create an hour glass silhouette, say experts.

Senior fashion analyst Katrin Magnussen said that fashion accessories "are an ideal treat even to consumers being more careful about their spending." (ANI)