BUCKLE UP WITH 8 OF THE BEST BELTS FOR MEN

A belt may play a supporting role in most outfits, but the right one can steal the show.

A stylish belt is not only practical, but it also gives pants a polished appearance. Flattering color combinations and complementary accessories will make any belt the centerpiece of a tightly coordinated ensemble. The material can accent clothing, footwear, and handbags, while the metal buckle can enhance jewelry and accessories.

Belts undergo tremendous wear and tear through everyday use, so it’s best to choose high-quality materials that stand the test of time. Whether you’re pursuing the perfect dress belt for a formal occasion or a casual belt to accent your favorite shorts, designer brands offer stellar pieces that will deliver year after year.

We’ve rounded up the best belts for men and explained how to find the perfect fit.

8 BEST TYPES OF BELTS FOR MEN

With each luxury label offering its own take on designer belts, men have plenty of options. Black and brown leather belts are typically all a man needs to get by, but niche styles can take a look to the next level.

These belt designs offer stronger styling opportunities to enhance any outfit:

Classic leather belt

Traditional unembellished leather belts are highly versatile for creating looks. The colors range from natural, ash, and cognac to walnut, black, and everything in between. Dark brown leather looks great with navy, white, khaki, and blue trousers, while black leather pairs well with dark denim, black, white, and gray pants. Choose a classic style from Burberry or Valentino with a metal logo buckle to make a statement.

Woven leather belt

Woven and braided leather belts are excellent options for casual summer outfits. The braided design allows for a more precise fit, as the prong can be placed into any section of the weave. These belts also have more stretch than plain leather belts, allowing more comfort when sitting or moving. The intricate pattern works well in timeless brown and black colors and complements suede and other textured leathers. Play up the belt’s romantic nature with an Italian-inspired white button-up shirt and linen pants combo, and add matching loafers.

Suede belt

The softness of suede lends outfits an approachable-yet-refined attitude. The fabric comes in an array of colors that makes styling simple. Team suede belts with blazers, bomber jackets, polo sweaters, turtlenecks, dress boots, and loafers. Go bold with vibrant colors from Ferragamo, or stay tried and true with a classic shade from Loro Piana.

Spiked belt

Belts often project an air of elegance, but one featuring rebellious accents, such as studs, offers a sharp contrast. Whether it features a metallic luster or an eye-catching hue, the accessory makes a statement. Opt for a Spike Loubi Belt from Christian Louboutin for a look that’s equal parts suave and daring. Use the belt to add an edge to a pair of black trousers or tie together a punk-inspired look.

Canvas belt

Go for a canvas belt when building a striking utilitarian look. These belts often feature flip-top buckles and can be styled with the excess strap tucked into the belt loops or left hanging nonchalantly. Combine a black canvas belt with black cargo pants and combat boots, or try a lighter hue with denim.

Nylon belt

Industrial nylon web belts have become a pivotal facet of streetwear fashion in recent years, with designer brands like Off-White perfecting the style. Wear these belts with dark-wash distressed denim, nylon bomber jackets, and hoodies, or cinch one over a closed trench coat for an unconventional twist.

Reversible belt

Reversible belts offer a unique two-in-one quality, thanks to a specialized buckle that allows either side of the strap to face outward. Although they typically feature a brown and a black side, some alternate between a solid color and a pattern, allowing the belt to blend in or stand out. Fendi’s reversible design offers a choice between a monogram pattern and a solid color.

Skinny belt

Thin leather belts for men give a nostalgic nod to the elegance of the ’60s. These belts are traditionally worn with high-rise pleated trousers, but they’re suitable for any pants and make the torso appear longer. Choose a slender leather belt from Magnanni in one of seven colors, finished with a sleek silver buckle.

HOW TO MEASURE FOR A BELT

To find the perfect belt size, refer to these useful tips:

Measure waist size

Measuring the waist is the most precise way to find the proper belt size. Thread a soft sewing tape measure through every belt loop, relax your posture, and take the measurement where both ends meet comfortably. This waist measurement can be compared to a belt size chart.

Use an existing belt

Measuring an existing belt is a simple way to find your size. Lay a well-fitted belt flat on a solid surface and measure the distance from the most used notch to where the strap meets the buckle. Round this measurement to the nearest inch for the correct belt size.

Use pants size

Belt size can also be calculated by adding two inches to the pants size. So if your pants size is 34, add two inches to get a belt size of 36. When trying on a belt in-store, ensure the belt fits while using a medial notch to accommodate size fluctuations.

SUIT UP WITH NEIMAN MARCUS

Leather accessories reliably elevate an outfit’s overall appearance, as designer watches, suede gloves, and leather bags. Keep your leather accessories looking their best with Neiman Marcus’ handbag and leather goods repair services. Whether replacing hardware and linings or removing stains and restitching straps, our specialists can extend the life of your favorite pieces.

For more inspiration, search the editorial archive where Neiman Marcus provides insider tips and styling advice for every season and occasion. Now that you’ve explored the best men’s belts, discover stylish chinos, top denim brands, and premier men’s dress pants. For personalized styling tips and outfit recommendations, book a one-on-one in-store or virtual appointment with a Neiman Marcus style advisor.