A decent belt will transform a dull wardrobe. While most fashionistas will take the time to fuss with tops, pants, and shoes, the simple belt is too often overlooked in the mix—a shame as it’s one of the most versatile items in your wardrobe. Whether you’re off to a Saturday barbie or the office, these five gold belt rules will see you shipshape every time.
Rule 1: Choose the Right Material – Leather, Suede, or Fabric?
The belt you choose will establish the tone of the entire outfit. Leather is the gold standard for versatility, easily transitioning from boardroom to bar. Choose full-grain leather for longevity and that coveted aged patina that develops only after years of use.
Suede belts add texture and a hint of sophistication, and work well for winter smart-casual Australian fashion. They suit chinos, blazers, and desert boots. Canvas and braided belts work well for summer and casual outings. They’re perfect for the seaside towns like Byron Bay or a Blue Mountains weekend.
Rule 2: Shoe and Belt Colour Matching – Timeless Combination
This is the key to dressing fashionably. Blowes Clothing’s popular men’s tan belts match with the tan shoes, and the black belts match with the black shoes. Don’t fret too much about exact matches, however—closely related colours in the same family do work.
For fashion-forward and functional Australians, begin with good-quality brown and black leather belts. These will take you through most of the occasions, ranging from Melbourne Cup races to Sydney harbour strolls. Tan and cognac browns are particularly great colours to pair with the Australian relaxed lifestyle, and these will complement anything from boat shoes to brogues.
Rule 3: Size Matters – Selecting the Right Belt Length
Proper belt length prevents loose excess material from hanging or stretching to the first belt loop. You should buckle with a quality belt on the middle hole with 10-15 centimetres of excess belt length.
Add two inches to pant size when you go in to purchase your ideal belt size. A 34 waist will typically call for a 36 belt. That way, you’ll have no problem tucking shirts in for a business presentation or leaving shirts untucked for a weekender backyard barbecue.
Rule 4: Buckle Up Wisely – Buckle Styles and Occasions
Your go-to buckle says a lot about your entire look. Traditional frame buckles complement almost any look, so wear them as ultimate fashion essentials. Buckle and body type taken into consideration, large bodies can rock giant buckles, whereas small bodies are best suited to thin ones.
Save flashy buckles for business-casual spaces. That fancy-schmancy buckle you acquired on a Paddington market stall is fine for the weekend, but not wanted in corporate existence. In the office, keep it low-key with brushed metal or matte-finish buckles.
Rule 5: Pay Attention to Width – Coordinate Belt Width with Your Clothing
Belt width must be included in the overall balance of your outfit. Formal trousers and suits are paired with formal belts of 2.5-3 centimetres. Jeans and chinos are paired with 3-4 centimetre belts.
Take your body type into consideration when choosing width. Tall men can wear broader belts without getting swamped, but shorter men just have to keep to slimmer belts to stay proportional. You want to flatten your body, not conceal, with your belt.
