Regardless of where you’re headed, a quality belt is always worth wearing (not to mention, it’s the closest thing to the phrase ‘wardrobe staple’ as you’re going to get).
They pair just as well with your finest dress pants as they do with jeans — and can elevate your typical pair of shorts to new heights, especially for a date night or company outing.
“Men often relate to belts as purely functional — a means of holding up their pants,” Jordan Stolch, celebrity-turned-personal stylist and founder/CEO of MIKADO, a full-service concierge personal styling firm, told the New York Post. “But belts actually yield great styling-power in the outfit department, and have the potential to really pull a look together.”
According to Stolch, the inclusion of a belt “can often transform simple clothing on the body into a polished, put-together ensemble through the subtle addition of this accent across your waistline.” In short, belts are surely something you shouldn’t overlook! (Related: best men’s cufflinks).
Ahead, Stolch answered every question you may have about shopping for men’s belts and how to measure your belt size at home (with garments you already have in your closet!) in our in-depth FAQ section, along with hand-picking the 25 hottest styles below from Burberry, Coach and more. Not to mention, any of these picks make lovely Father’s Day gifts to order in advance.
1. Ted Baker Siymon Mixed Texture Leather Belt, $85
“The Siymon leather belt from Ted Baker has all the hallmarks of a classic, with design details that keep it fresh and interesting,” Stolch says. “From the office to evenings out, this belt is sure to garner compliments.”
Not to mention, we recommend it, too, for being a fairly priced option that boasts a timeless, traditional feel.
2. Shinola Double Keeper Smooth Leather Belt, $125
“Searching for a subtly stylish leather belt to pair with all your jeans and tennis shoes? Shinola has you covered,” Stolch assures. “The Double Keeper belt is cool and casual with accentuated stitching, then finished off with gunmetal hardware.”
With your perfect dress shirt and bottoms, you’ll feel polished and put-together with this thicker-banded belt.
3. Tom Ford Croc-Printed Leather T-Buckle Belt, $890
“For those unintimidated by pushing the style boundaries, this glossy printed croc enamel belt is just what you need,” Stolch adds. “With the iconic gold Tom Ford logo, paired with a chocolate brown leather strap, this stand out piece is unlike any belt you’ve ever owned.”
As a belt that’ll last for decades, we can’t stop glossing over this beautifully textured rendition — oversized embossed logo aside.
4. Burberry Check & Leather Reversible TB Belt, $550
“Can’t decide between investing in the iconic Burberry print or the classic black matte leather? Now you don’t have to,” Stolch notes. “This reversible style provides the best of both worlds and is secured with a dark graphite Thomas Burberry Monogram plaque buckle.”
For more Burberry, check out our expert-backed guide to the best men’s trench coats.
5. Vans Deppster Web Belt, $18
“Keep it simple with the cult-favorite, Deppster belt from Vans,” Stolch says. “This go-to web style has an adjustable buckle and an anti-fray metal tip, sure to be a perfect choice for every day on-the-go wear.”
For less than $20, it’s the perfect daily belt to pair with your go-to sneakers, too.
6. Lucky Brand Distressed Suede Leather Belt, $36, original price: $60
“This Lucky Brand belt makes a strong case for suede, at a price that’s pretty tough to beat,” Stolch adds. “With its distressed detailing and coordinating buckle, it is sure to compliment your effortlessly laid-back style.”
Above all else, we approve of the vintage flair its center buckle brings — allowing you to dress it up or down.
7. BOSS Italian-Leather Belt with Branded Pin Buckle, $80
“This sleek leather belt from Hugo Boss is a perfect accompaniment to your classic navy suiting,” Stolch notes. “Pair it with matching chocolate brown dress shoes and a pop of color on your tie, for a stylish, yet sophisticated ensemble.”
For a designer name that’s less than $100, we recommend sprinting to this belt.
8. Saint Laurent Cassandre Grained Leather Belt with Square Buckle, $525
“Made of calfskin leather with bronze-toned metal hardware, this Saint Laurent style oozes simple luxury,” Stolch highlights. “Pair this belt with matching leather dress shoes, and let the signature YSL logo take your look to the next level.”
Impressively, this particular belt is readily available online in its black-and-gold glory.
9. CHAOREN Ratchet Leather Belt, $20, original price: $30
“This is the “goes-with-anything” belt that you won’t regret purchasing,” Stolch notes. “Its high-durability ratchet buckle allows for easy adjustments and a perfect fit. The sleek and simple design of the strap and hardware makes this option a staple you can wear daily.”
Not to mention, this style is on sale right now and backed by nearly 11,000 rave reviews.
10. Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Belt, $720
“Bottega Veneta knows how to do understated elegance like no other,” Stolch declares, recommending this belt. “Case in point: their classic Intreciatto belt. Designed in the label’s signature weave detailing, this is the staple in your wardrobe that will never go out of style.”
Designer + texture = a purchase well-spent. Plus, it comes in an array of neutral and bold colors alike to accentuate or add a statement to your overall outfit.
11. Gucci GG Leather Square Buckle Belt, $420
“If understated luxury is your preference, opt for this subtle style from Gucci,” Stolch recommends. “With its embossed leather strap and palladium-toned hardware, it is just as cool, and even more stylish than its flashy counterparts.”
With a name like Gucci, you know this slim, quality belt is going to be an investment worth making.
12. Nisolo Teyo Woven Belt, $70
“A woven leather belt is a nice change of pace from more standard leather belt offerings,” Stolch pinpoints. “This casual belt pairs well with chinos or denim, and even shorts in the summer time months.”
Particularly, we recommend this style to pair with your best chinos.
13. Prada Saffiano Leather Belt, $850
“Monochrome has never looked more elegant than on this Saffiano leather Prada belt,” Stolch says. “With its crisp leather strap, and metal logo buckle, this option is the statement piece to elevate all of your suiting.”
More, this Italian-originated belt has the namesake logo right at its center, much like its designer handbags.
14. COACH Roller Buckle Reversible Belt with Camo Print, $195
“Tired of black and brown? Mix things up with a graffiti-inspired camo print – sure to bring some edge to your outfits,” Stolch advises. “Style this belt from Coach with your favorite chinos, a classic tee and your go-to white tennis shoes and you’ll be effortless styled for every casual occasion.”
Ultimately, if you love the outdoorsy look but want to feel put-together, this is an option worth investing in.
15. Ferragamo Reversible & Adjustable Gancini Belt, $550
“Ferragamo excels at leather goods, and its soft calfskin leather belt is no different,” Stolch says. “This Gancini style is amongst the brand’s most popular pieces – all thanks to the signature logo buckle.”
It’s difficult for us to choose favorites, but this one is at the top of our list, much ado to its chic style and stunning hardware.
16. Canali Printed Calfskin Reversible Belt, $255
“Looking for a highly durable belt that will last for many years to come, and has a classic, yet modern style? Go with this reversible calfskin style from Canali,” Stolch hand-picks. “The understated sophistication, and polished silver buckle, make it sure to be a favorite in your wardrobe.”
For more options, check out our guide to the best Nordstrom gifts.
17. Mio Marino Genuine Leather Dress Belt, $20
“This no-fuss belt from Amazon serves up that classic formal aesthetic in a rich shade of tan,” Stolch notes.
With a whopping 46,000 reviews — and counting — this particular belt comes in plenty of shades and size options to suit any style.
18. Levi’s Modern Cabazon Metal Belt, $24, original price: $40
“Levi’s is known for making some of the most iconic jeans available, and the same can be said of the brand’s belts,” Stolch adds. “Pair this full grain leather style with your favorite 501s – add in a casual button down, a pair of chukka boots, and you’ll be effortless styled for all of your casual outings.”
Right now, score this belt for 40% off at checkout to pair with your classic denim and other bottoms.
19. True Religion Leather Big T Horseshoe Belt, $41, original price: $59
“True Religion is known for their signature stitching — case in point: this dark brown leather belt,” Stolch highlights. “With its horseshoe buckle, and stark white contrasting threads, this option is sure to pair well with all of your denim.”
Oh, and this belt is giving all of the ‘coastal cowgirl’ — or rather, cowboy — vibes we can muster.
20. BC Belts Canvas Web Belt with Antique Brass Buckle, $11
“For the easiest everyday canvas web belt, look no further than Amazon,” Stolch recommends. “This inexpensive option has you covered for all of your casual needs, and is available in multiple colorways, in case you want to order more than just one!”
For less than $15, how can you pass up this practical and comfortable option?
21. Montblanc Leather Belt, $390
“Wear it to the office 5 days a week and then again on the weekend with dressier looks,” Stolch says, recommending the Montblanc Leather Belt. “Its shiny stainless-steel buckle is sure to remain in rotation for many years to come.”
Plus, its textured cowhide leather make is of supreme quality, making a lovely luxury gift for the man in your life.
22. Nordstrom Samuel Pebbled Leather Belt, $99
“Searching for a crisply designed leather belt that is perfect for the office? This pick from Nordstrom is a strong contender,” Stolch points out. “Robust pebbling brings texture and distinction to your look, sure to elevate your regular 9-to-5 ensembles.”
Just shy of $100, we love its all-black design, creating a seamless look with black pants, or a handsome contrast with beige khakis.
23. Bonobos The Clubhouse Stretch Belt, $79
“Simple yet stylish, this braided belt from Bonobos is perfect when you’re in search of a leather alternative,” Stolch adds. “The navy fabric material contrasts the brushed nickel buckle, and makes for the perfect add on to your summer shorts.”
If slim and soft-textured belts are your jam, this one is your best bet.
24. Loro Piana Alsavel Suede Calf-Split Belt, $595
“This luxe suede belt from Loro Piana, has a bold, yet elegant, look,” Stolch notes. “The light wood smoke colorway is sure to pair well with dark wash denim and olive chinos – a nice contrast to conventional tan.”
It just looks well-made and decadent, too, and we have it on our wishlist (add it to your cart with us).
25. Under Armour UA Webbing Belt, $20
“Built with a quick-and-easy ratchet buckle that’s fully adjustable, this Under Armour belt will give you a perfect fit every time,” Stolch says. “It’s designed for flexibility on the golf course, but don’t be surprised if it ends up in your daily rotation.”
With sporty flair and an easy-to-put-on design, it’s worth the buy for just $20.
An FAQ on belts for men
Ahead, Stolch gives us the full 411 on what to know about men’s belts — including different styles, what to look for and more.
What to keep in mind when shopping for a men’s belt
When shopping for a quality belt, there are several factors to keep in mind which will ensure satisfaction with your purchase:
- Material: A good quality belt is made of premium materials, making this one of the primary features to keep in mind when making your selection. Opt for genuine leather, to ensure long lasting durability, with robust hardware buckles made of sturdy metals like brass.
- Style: The style and look of the belt is important to take into account, based on frequency of use and where you intend to wear it. Everyday belts, such as styles worn to the office or with your go-to pair of jeans, should have a subtle and understated aesthetic, designed in a color that matches your footwear, which can easily interchange with your go-to outfits. Think of this as an accent detail on your outfit.
- The Buckle: Pronounced buckles and bold color choices, are best reserved for specialty occasions and less frequent use, due to their signature, eye-catching nature – otherwise thought of as the centerpiece.
- Price Point: Choosing a good quality belt, that pairs well with your lifestyle and aesthetic, is an investment you’re sure to get your money’s worth out of – something you will be able to wear for many years to come. Styles of belts do not change drastically over time, which makes this a safe purchase and something worth spending what you can afford on. It is most certainly worth it to invest in good quality materials, at a slightly higher price point, to ensure your belt holds up through repeated use.
How to style a men’s belt for every occasion, per an expert
As mentioned, belts are certainly functional, though Stolch believes you should never underestimate their styling power.
- For formal occasions: Be sure to match its color with your footwear. Styled with a full suit, or trousers and a dress shirt, your belt should be the simple piece that ties the look together. Note that a belt and suspenders should not be worn at the same time — choose one or the other when styling your formal look.
- For date nights or a more relaxed office dress code: Where a less formal look is required, but maintaining polish is still the goal, choose your favorite dark denim, a button-down shirt, paired with a sport coat or sweater, leather shoes — and top it all off with a matching belt.
- For casual occasions: Choose jeans or chinos, paired with tees, hoodies and pullover sweaters – style the look with sneakers or boots, and add in a leather or fabric belt to finish it off. In the summer, pair a canvas or braided leather belt with your favorite shorts, a polo shirt or tee, and a pair of simple sandals or clean white sneakers.
What are some of the best brands for men’s belts?
According to Stolch, some of the best brands to check out include (but aren’t limited to): Burberry, Coach, Under Armor, True Religion, Lucky Brand, Nordstrom, Shinola, Montblanc, Tom Ford, Gucci, Ferragamo, Hugo Boss, Loro Piana, Bottega Venetta, Cole Haan, Ted Baker, AllSaints, Rag & Bone, Paul Smith, Nisolo and Saint Laurent.
How to measure your belt size at home, according to an expert
Ahead, Stolch provides a step-by-step guide for measuring your belt size at home — similar to how you can also measure your bra size.
Measure a Belt You Already Own
An easy way of determine which belt size you should order, is simply measuring an existing belt you already own.
“Start by making note of which hole you typically fasten the belt at, then lay the belt on a flat surface with the front facing upwards,” Stolch recommends. “Using a tape measure, make note of the distance between your preferred hole and the end of the strap, where it attaches to the buckle.”
Note: your measurement should not include the length of the buckle or the tip of the strap. Your measurement starts where the buckle meets the strap, and should only extend as far as the hole you typically use. The number you arrive at using this technique is the number you will select when ordering your belt online (i.e. measurement from end of strap to preferred hole is a 32”, you will order a 32” belt), even through the full length of the belt, including the buckle and additional holes, is longer.
Measure Your Pants
When you don’t have an existing belt in your closet for reference, you can very easily determine your proper sizing by measuring a pair of pants.
“With this technique you will need a soft measuring tape, the type you would find at the dry cleaner or tailor,” Stolch explains. “Put on your pants, hold the start of the measuring tape directly in the center of the pants button, and then string the measuring tape through each of the belt loops, just as you would with a belt. The number that touches the start of the measuring tape, indicates the size of belt best suited for you.”
Reference Your Pant Size
Knowing your pant size is one of the easiest ways to determine your belt size, however the two numbers are not the same.
“Your belt size is generally 2” larger than your pant size (i.e. if you typically wear a size 34 pants, your belt size is a 36), in order to accommodate for the fabric of the pants, your tucked in shirt and the fact that you’ll want your belt to have some breathing room,” Stolch notes.
That said, if you know your pant size, you can easily determine your belt size without having to use a measuring tape!
Important to know in all cases: belts are typically available in even number increments (i.e. 30, 32, 34). If you end up at an odd number using any of the sizing techniques, bump up to the nearest even number (i.e. 35” measurement chooses a 36” belt).
How men’s belts differ, explained by an expert
Aside from key considerations to keep in mind when ordering a belt online, read up on how men’s belts differ to get a better idea of what to add to your shopping cart.
Dressy vs Casual
Knowing what type of scenarios your belt will be worn in, will help you select the most suitable style for your wardrobe.
- Dress Belt: Dress belts are worn with suiting, slacks and more formal attire, and are most commonly made of shiny full grain leather or faux leather material, with an understated, simple prong buckle closure. Colors of choice are black, dark brown or tan (with some slight variations here depending on how bold your personal style is). As a general rule of thumb, a dress belt should match the color of your shoes (i.e. brown belt and brown shoes), and the metal buckle should match the hardware of your watch and/or other jewelry.
- Casual Belt: Casual belts are worn with everything else, and are made in a wide variety of materials and buckle closures. They are typically wider, look more rugged and matte than their shiny dress belt counterparts, and often have a larger buckle closure to highlight their dressed-down nature. Rules of color matching are not as critical in casual settings, however when in doubt you are always safe to match your belt to your shoes.
Color
Men’s belts come in all colors and are most commonly available in neutral shades, including black, brown, tan, grey, white and navy.
“Black, dark brown and tan are considered the colors of choice when paired with suiting and formal attire,” Stolch points out. “Black belts are best styled with black or charcoal suiting. Brown and tan belts work well with navy, gray and charcoal options.”
A casual dress code lends itself to more color choices, however you can still never go wrong with a neutral. “Choosing a belt color that works with a wide variety of items in your wardrobe, will ensure it is worn for many years to come,” she adds.
Width
Men’s belts typically range in width, from 1.25” to 2”.
“Dress belts should always be selected on the narrower end of the scale and casual belts on the wider,” Stolch advises. “As a rule of thumb, the more slender you are, the narrower your belt should be and vice versa. Choose a width that is proportional to your frame.”
Buckles
One of the biggest differentiating factors amongst men’s belts is the buckle itself, which is the detail that really gives the belt its character. According to Stolch, this is undeniably the area to give some extra attention to when selecting your belt of choice.
- Prong or Tongue Buckle: This is the most popular style of belt buckle, and most likely what you already own in your closet. It features a metal pin, which you insert into a belt hole, while then pushing the belt’s tip under the buckle and securing it through a loop at the front.
- Plate Buckle: Usually detachable, this style is quite decorative with an ornamental plate design as the buckle. It is common amongst cowboy and motorcycle belts and generally secures through a hook closure.
- Ratchet Buckles: If you find yourself in between sizes, the ratchet style is just what you’re looking for, as it allows for micro adjustments and small size shifts. Without any holes or prongs, the strap folds into the ratchet buckle, metal teeth press down and auto-lock the belt in place.
- D and O-Ring Belts: Ring belts also fasten without holes or prongs, and are often reserved for casual outfits. The have double loops (shaped like a D or O), through which you thread the strap, then double it back, and pull to secure through just the top loop.
Materials
A belt’s material differs greatly between styles. Choosing a material that works for the occasion the belt will be worn in, is an important decision to make when selecting your belt of choice. Ahead, Stolch finely explains different materials men’s belts typically boast:
- Full Grain Leather: If you’re looking for a well-rounded, durable dress belt, look no further than full grain leather. Often worn with suiting or slacks, a full grain leather belt pairs perfectly with your most polished outfits.
- Tooled or Embossed Leather: This style of belt is designed by using a stamping or rolling process, which forms patterns on the leather and creates a more statement-look. This design characteristic lends itself to both casual and dress belts.
- Bridle Leather: Made of full grain, a bridle leather belt is vegetable-tanned, which generally produces stiff, non-stretchy leathers, to create greater flexibility and a smooth finish on both sides. Similar to other material choices, a bridle leather belt is available of both dressy and casual settings.
- Braided Leather: Common amongst casual belts, a braided leather is an excellent choice when you want to add some texture to your look without creating an overt statement. This style is also easily adjustable, due to its lack of belt holes — simply insert the prong through any spot in the leather braiding, and your belt will easily be secured in place.
- Calfskin Leather: A calfskin belt is much thinner and more lightweight than a full grain leather style. It is simple to clean and resistant to scuffs, which allows for a more pristine, smooth look.
- Suede: A suede belt is relaxed and casual by nature, a great choice for day-to-day wear. Much less durable than full grain leather, this material often requires some upkeep but is worth it for its inherently cool look.
- Canvas: Typically designed with the ratchet buckle, this style of belt is made of a canvas fabric and is perfect for your most laid-back outfits. Think shorts on vacation or chinos in the summer.
- Webbing: Synonymous with a military/tactical belt or skater belt, this style is made of a nylon fabric webbing, and is distinguished by its lack of holes — typically featuring a ratchet-style buckle.
- Faux Leather: If real leather isn’t your material of choice, or you’re in search of a low-cost, low-maintenance alternative, polyurethane styles are quite easy to come by — and when chosen properly, can look just as polished as their full grain alternatives.
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