Belts might seem like a small, often overlooked accessory, but they play a crucial role in completing your look. Sure, their primary job is to hold up your pants, but over time, belts have evolved into a key style element that can make or break an outfit.
One common mistake? Pairing black shoes with a brown belt. It's a simple yet major fashion faux pas.
Because belts tend to blend into the background, they're often the silent offender that ruins an otherwise sharp outfit. Choosing the wrong belt or wearing it incorrectly can spoil your whole look, no matter how carefully you’ve styled the rest of your attire.
Let’s dive into some easy-to-follow tips to help you get the belt game right.
Belt Size
In Vietnam, it's common to try on a belt, then ask the shopkeeper to trim it if it’s too long. While this works temporarily, it’s better to invest in a belt that matches your waist size from the get-go.
Belts that can be cut to size are often less durable, prone to slipping, and typically secured with a pin, which can look less polished. The sturdier option is a belt that’s sewn in place, making it not only more durable but also more aesthetically pleasing. High-end brands like Edward Green offer these types of belts, which last longer and look more refined.
Some brands use S, M, and L sizing, which can be translated the same way: your belt should match your pants size. For example, a size S belt would fit waist sizes 34-36 inches.
When buying a belt, aim to match it to your waist size. Belt sizes are typically measured from the buckle to the middle hole (most belts have five holes). A good rule of thumb is to buy a belt that corresponds to your pants size.
Some brands use S, M, and L sizing, which can be translated the same way: your belt should match your pants size. For example, a size S belt would fit waist sizes 34-36 inches.
A well-fitted belt will not only be more durable but also the correct length. Wearing a belt that’s too long is a common mistake that can ruin an outfit, especially in formal settings. For fabric or woven leather belts, you can make minor length adjustments, but they’re still not as customizable as leather ones.
The top image shows a belt of the correct length, while the bottom image features one that's too long.
Belt Materials
Belts come in various materials, each suitable for different occasions. Here's a quick guide, ranked from formal to casual:
Leather: The go-to choice for most people. Cowhide leather belts are versatile, easy to wear, and durable. For those who want to stand out, exotic animal skin belts - like crocodile, ostrich, or lizard - make a bold statement. However, these can be harder to pull off and may attract too much attention. Suede belts also work well for casual looks.
Fabric: A perfect option for warmer months or laid-back outings. Fabric belts often come in vibrant colors and require a little more thought when coordinating with your outfit.
Fabric belts and woven belts are perfect for casual outings.
Woven: Whether in fabric or faux leather, woven belts offer an adjustable fit and are great for casual settings. The lack of fixed holes makes them easy to tweak to the perfect length.
Classifying Belts by Style
Dress Belts
These are designed for formal pants and shoes. Every wardrobe should have at least one dress belt. The key here is to match the belt to the color of your shoes - black belt for black shoes, brown belt for brown shoes. Dress belts are usually narrower (around 3 cm), feature a simple buckle, and have minimal detailing. A leather belt is your best bet for this style.
Casual Belts
Casual belts are typically wider (3.5-4 cm) and come in a variety of materials, including leather, fabric, and woven options. The buckles often have a more rugged vibe to match the laid-back feel of casual pants.
For those who don’t have a belt that matches their shoes (especially for sneaker enthusiasts), the best strategy is to wear a belt that matches your pants or complements the dominant color of your shoes.
While you can make a casual belt pop by choosing a striking color, pulling this off requires experience.
Avoid Logos on Belts
Personally, I don’t believe in turning yourself into a walking advertisement. Belts with overly large logos or designer buckles - like the H-shaped ones (which are mostly fakes in Vietnam) - should be avoided.
Large, branded logos can easily look tacky, so it's best to steer clear of them altogether.
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