How to Choose a Belt
A guide to choosing and matching a belt: a stylish detail that can transform your outfit
Accessories play an important part in the overall impression of an outfit. A men's belt is one detail worth choosing carefully: its material, width, colour, finish and buckle can all affect the final look. Here are a few tips to help you find the right one.
Matching your belt to your clothes
Your belt should coordinate with your shoes and, perhaps, your bag. The shades do not have to match exactly, but they should not be noticeably different.
Size matters: belt width
A belt worn with a suit should be about 4.5 cm wide. Narrower belts, under 3 cm, are often considered a fashion statement. Wider belts, over 4.5 cm, are better suited to casual outfits.
Choose the right buckle
Most buckles are made of brass or another yellow metal, but glossy and matte silver finishes are available too. These may suit modern suits, although a traditional gentleman would avoid them. Style enthusiasts coordinate the metal of their belt buckle with their watch and cufflinks. A simple buckle works best with a suit; more extravagant buckles are suited to everyday wear.
Choosing a material
The finish of your belt should work with your shoes. A suede belt pairs well with suede shoes in a casual outfit, while smooth leather works best with a suit. With trainers or summer shoes, you have more choice: textile belts are popular in warmer months, or you can match the belt material to your footwear.
If you choose a striking belt, such as a woven one, remember that a heavy, rustic style may overpower a suit made from fine fabric. Woven belts work particularly well with American-style suits.
Colour
Two basic belt colours will serve a gentleman well: black and brown. Wear a black belt with black shoes. Brown belts pair with shades of brown, including burgundy tones.
Bonus tip: adjusting the size
If your weight has changed, you do not need to discard your favourite belt or add holes yourself. A shoe repair shop can adjust it for you. A professional removes the buckle, shortens the belt and reattaches it, leaving the number of holes at the tip unchanged.
Good shoe care matters as much as choosing the right belt. Our video shows how to look after the shoes in your wardrobe; you can find more in the related video article on the blog.
A belt may be a small detail, but choosing it well and matching it to the rest of your outfit can make a noticeable difference.
Follow these tips to choose a belt that completes your outfit and adds elegance and style. Even the smallest details can change the overall impression.
Cavalier
