Types of Belts and How to Pair Them

As long as your pants have belt loops, you should be wearing a belt — no matter what your best friend says. Whether you’re wearing jeans, shorts or dress pants, your entire outfit will look disjointed if those belt loops aren’t doing their job. So, if you want to dress properly and keep your drawers on, it’s time to buckle up and learn about the different types of belts. The only thing worse than a beltless ensemble is a poorly paired one.

Different Types of Belts: Strap Materials

Unless you’re in the market for a biker chain belt, your belt strap will be made of either fabric, canvas or leather. When it comes to quality, leather is the best by far. This material is stretch-resistant and ages well, especially if it’s full-grain leather. However, cotton, rope, vinyl and faux leather have also proven to be dependable belt materials.

Leather Belts 

Formal occasions will always call for a leather belt, regardless of what you wear. However, leather is also suitable for informal settings, depending on what type of leather it is. For instance, exotic leathers like crocodile, lizard and ostrich may look upscale, and you can certainly wear them with a suit. However, you can also wear them with jeans to add a bit of flair to a more casual fit. 

Fabric Belts

If you aren’t trying to dress to impress and want a more informal look, try on a fabric belt. This type of belt comes in various materials, including vinyl, leather-backed ribbon, webbing, faux leather, canvas and rope. These fabric options offer a more laid-back, personalized addition to your ensemble. Just be sure to exchange them for a high-quality leather belt if you’re attending a work meeting, a wedding or some other special occasion.

Canvas Belts

Canvas belts make excellent tactical belts as many are readily adjustable, not relying on holes to get that perfect snug fit that allows you to move freely with various tools attached. They’re popular among those who work in the trades, police, security and the military. The tightly woven fibers are remarkably tough and won’t break even when carrying heavy loads. Many are designed to work with Molle bags and holsters to keep everything you might need at your fingertips. Of course, their sleek, simple styling looks good solo with a pair of khakis. 

Braided Belts 

Braided belts may be leather or fabric. Some designs appear more rope-like than others. The difference is primarily aesthetic, although many men gravitate towards them for the comfort, making them a reliable closet go-to, especially when headed out for a hearty meal. The design gives these belts greater breathability and flexibility than solid belts, and that extra little bit of stretch can make a big difference. 

Types of Leather Used in Belts

Leather belts are among the most popular for their versatility — they’re appropriate as dress belts with formal attire but can go casual. The type of leather used in these belts makes a difference in their comfort and style. 

First of all, leather comes in several grades, including the following: 

• Full-grain leather: The epitome of excellence, full-grain leather undergoes a rigorous preservation process that conserves the grain and highlights existing markings as features, not flaws. 
• Top-grain leather: Although it comes close to full-grain in quality, top-grain leather manufacturers sand the outer layer before applying a finishing coat for a more even appearance. 
• Genuine leather: This name is a bit misleading as it sounds like it should represent the best in quality. It’s often crafted from leftover scraps, which makes it less desirable as a belt material, as it readily succumbs to wearing and damage. 
• Corrected grain leather: Such materials undergo sanding, and manufacturers apply an artificial grain to improve cost-effectiveness while also boosting quality. 

Additionally, leather belts don’t only originate from cowhide. You can find dress belts made from alligator, pigs, buffalo and even kangaroos and ostriches. Basically, if the critter has a hide, manufacturers can tan it and transform it into a leather belt. 

Buckles and Strap Widths 

Men’s belts also come in various widths, with most falling into one of three categories — one and one-fourth inches, one and a half inches and one and three-fourth inches. 

The thinnest belts typically serve as formal belts for men with small waists. They’re best paired with skinny jeans and tapered trousers. Meanwhile, medium-width belts can be formal or casual and go well with denim, chinos and heavier fabrics. Thicker belts that are one and three-fourths inches or wider are harder to find and definitely more casual. Often, they feature large statement buckles that can make or break an outfit. 

Speaking of making a statement, plate style or clip buckles can certainly help you stand out in a crowd. This type of buckle is usually decorated and detachable so you can switch up the design to match the rest of your outfit. Box-out buckles are also more decorative and often feature a leather or synthetic frame. In most cases, you can wear either buckle in a casual or formal setting depending on how bold or subtle the rest of your ensemble is. 

On the other hand, frame-style buckles are most often seen on formal belts. Box-out and box-frame varieties may also pair well with a formal outfit. However, you may also find this type of buckle on casual-looking belts. However, if you’re looking for a go-to casual buckle, belts with O-ring, D-ring and snap buckles will likely suit your needs. Most tactical belts feature quick-release snap buckles that you can manipulate with one hand. 

Matching Materials and Colors

Knowing what makes a belt formal or casual can help you choose the right style for any occasion. However, you must also consider materials and colors when pairing your belt with your outfit. As a rule of thumb, your buckle should match your accessories. For instance, if your watch and cufflinks are silver, your belt buckle should be.

You should also match the color of your shoes to your belt. Consider which shoes you wear most often and ensure your belt’s color and finish are on the same page as your kicks. For example, a leather dress belt should top leather shoes in the same shade — no mixing browns and blacks. Using this tip as a guide for choosing between leather and fabric belts will ensure you look put together, no matter where you’re headed. 

Work With What Types of Belts You Have

No single belt will suit every occasion, so it’s best to invest in a few different types of belts. That way, you’re always ready to serve up good looks at a moment’s notice. 

If you only have one belt, try to work with what you have. Consider your wardrobe and the different kinds of accessories you already own. What color shoes do you own? Will the belts you have match your style? Purchasing two or three belts that complement your existing wardrobe will save you from purchasing a brand-new one and ensure you look cool without trying too hard.

Originally published April 30, 2021 – Updated October 9, 2024