Belts and Buckles for Jeans

Now, we all know that belts and buckles for jeans or other pants are a totally utilitarian object, the sole purpose of which is to keep your pants up. Well, I think there is much more to belts and buckles than that. Just think of where they are used. You’re adding a horizontal line right at your mid section! Imagine the potential that they have to add or subtract from the composition that you’re creating.

Here are some observations to get the most out of this wonderful accessory:

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Take a look at the figures above. You’ll notice that a belt that is not the same color as your pants (A or B) will visually shorten your legs. A belt that matches the color of your jeans (C) will give you the full benefit of the total length of the jeans.

Likewise, a belt that is the same color as your top will elongate your torso.

A belt that contrasts with the color of your outfit (B) “cuts” the verticality that you are going for right at the middle.

Wider, hip slung belts are the most generally fattering, but beware………

Low-slung belts and tucked in shirts (D) should be avoided. Wear them on top of a long shirt that hangs out generously under the belt (F), or with a top that ends a few inches above the belt (E).

Women with a rounder figure should avoid skinny belts, it’s just a matter of proportions. They are great for skinny women and for women with a slim waist. Men should never wear thin belts with jeans. Go for the 1.5” belts with heavier buckles.

The right size belt should not buckle on the last hole. A correct fitting belt should be worn on one of the middle holes.

Think of the belt buckle as an extra accessory, and there are some beautiful buckles on the market. Maintain a consistency between the buckle and your other accessories (silver buckle with silver jewelry, gold with gold). Brass buckles are always a safe bet with denim. Jeans open the door to a huge selection of cool buckles, so have fun with them!

Longer, dangling belts, should be hung to one side of your body, not to the front.

Should the belt match the color of your shoes? Some fashion experts believe this is a fundamental rule. My personal view is that this is OK with more formal wear. Denim is another story. It allows for greater freedom in choice of belts and buckles. It’s more important that the “mood” of the belt and footwear be in sync. This refers to the “weight” or “heftiness” of these accessories as well as to the materials that they are made from. Materials have a "flavor" and suggest levels of formality. Just keep them consistent. As an extension to this guideline, never wear dress belts with jeans!

Going barefoot? Unless you want it to look like you just forgot to wear shoes, don’t wear a belt. Remember, the “mood” should be consistent.

And yes, even though many more women than men are wearing their jeans without a belt, I think those loops should be put to good use. Still, especially with the trendier denim, wearing a belt has become optional.

One final note for guys: never wear jeans (or any other pants) with belts and suspenders at the same time, unless you really want to look geeky. If you like suspenders, try Sloops , the first patented jeans “cut specifically for the suspender wearer's physique.”