How to Pick the Right Men’s Belt
As an average guy, you probably don’t have the cash or even the time to hunt for a nice lizard skin belt. That’s shouldn’t discourage you though. In any decent department store out there, you will quickly find a belt rack.
Of course, there will be a size tag on each belt on display. The rule is to get something one size bigger. That means if your waist 33 or 34, you should aim for a 36-40 belt.
Belts are made to be an accessory, so don’t make yours the focal point of your wardrobe. Even if you’re dreaming of turning heads with croc skin wrapped around you, don’t obsess about buying a belt that’s pricier than your shoes, or worse, your suit. A good price for a belt is between $30 and $100.
Choosing a Belt for Your Wardrobe
So there’s a belt on your rack that’s been there a week. It’s Friday night and you want to parade it. Problem is, you also want to wear your brown shoes, and the belt is black. How do you solve something like this? The simplest rule in wearing a dress belt is that it must share the color and finish of the shoes. A shiny black belt will only match shiny black shoes. Very simple.
However, casual belts give you a little more flexibility. Whatever finish or color they come in, they’re always great with jeans and sneakers. It’s definitely easy, except when you’re wearing boots. That’s when things can get really iffy.
No matter how much they cost, boots are generally casual. But being made of leather, the rule is the same as with dress belts – match color and finish. It sounds rather complicated but black boots go with a shiny, black casual belt. And don’t forget about buckle size. Bigger buckle means more casual belt.
How Not to Pick a Belt
Are you confused by all these rules about belts, buckles and leather finishes? Keep in mind these general guidelines:
> Don’t buy those garish, extra-large buckles, including 1998’s S&M-style belts with metal studs.
> Forget belted shorts, unless you’re sailing, golfing or having lunch at a country club.
> Dress belts never go with jeans, and casual belts should never be worn with dress slacks.
>Don’t wear a belt with a hole you actually punched yourself.
> If your waistline is increasing, go to the gym or get a larger belt. If you’ve recently lost weight, buy yourself a new belt.
Storing Your Belt
Always hang belts vertically, and keep them away from direct sunlight so they don’t dry out and crack. Men like to leave their belts in their pants or wrap them around a pole. This isn’t good because the belt stays in a loop position for an extended time, and it will curve the leather and cause damage to the seams.
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