Knowing what belt to wear with what outfit is an important skill. A unique, high-quality statement belt can literally make an outfit and give you an unmistakable presence.
The right belt enhances the class and elegance of your outfit. In fact, the right belt can absolutely make an outfit, especially a suit.
Then again, the wrong belt can clash with what you’re wearing, and make you look sloppy. A well-tailored suit is enhanced by its accessories: the right tie, cufflinks, shoes or boots, and the right belt.
Wearing a tie
Depending on your style and on the occasion, you may or may not choose to wear a tie, which could influence your choice of belt.
If you choose not to wear a tie, then wearing the right belt with your suit is even more important, because your belt becomes the focal accessory in your outfit instead of your tie. That gives you the option of choosing a bolder belt to complement your suit.
Finding your size
The right belt should fit around your waist snugly and comfortably, but should not be restrictive. No matter how classy the belt is, if it is not comfortable to wear, it will probably just hang in the closet.
A good rule is to choose a belt one or two inches longer than your waist size. So if you have a 36-inch waist, choose a belt that is 38 inches in length.
Most belts have at least five holes. You should always use the middle hole of your belt.
Choosing a belt
There are some simple rules to follow in choosing the right belt for your suit. The major rule is to always match the color (and texture, if possible) of your belt and your shoes or boots.
The match doesn’t have to be perfect, just similar. The goal is to have similar colors and finishes.
Don’t forget about the other accessories you are wearing: the metal finish of your belt buckle should coordinate with the finish of your tie tack, cufflinks, and even your watch.
Putting quality first
For the best look with a suit, always choose a high-quality, full-grain leather belt. The only proper complement to a good-looking suit is the right accessories, including an equally good-looking belt.
Make sure the quality of your belt matches the quality of your suit, to let people know that quality matters to you, and that you pay attention to all the details. One of our handcrafted, premium leather belts will match the quality of any tailored suit.
Dressing for the occasion
Before you choose the right belt to go with your suit, think of the occasion you are attending, and select a belt that fits the occasion. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a range of belts to choose from, for any event you’re attending.
For a wedding or a formal event, a dressier belt works better, while you should wear a more distinctive belt to casual events. Many times, a simple, classic belt is best to wear with a formal suit.
The best belt for your suit
Tom Taylor makes the finest premium belts you’ll find. Handcrafted by Southwestern artisans and metalsmiths, our full-grain leather belts are passed from one generation to the next.
When you’re choosing the right belt to go with your suit, think of Tom Taylor, and you’ll never go wrong. Browse our collection of belts, and find the perfect belt for your suit.
