On the belt for the belt as it is called. A long belt is the hottest accessory of the season.

A belt is one of the important elements of men's clothing, which has been known since ancient times. Today it is needed not only to support trousers or as a practical accessory. It emphasizes the overall style and sense of taste.

In recent years, the well-known “military” style has acquired a new lease of life. In particular, many men were interested in military belts, which have already become a kind of classic. And this is easy to understand, because they have a number of advantages.

What is it called

If we talk about style and an unusual approach to choosing an accessory such as a belt, then we should start with the correct name of their types. It turns out that this, at first glance, not the most remarkable detail has quite a lot of different nuances. Let's try to understand them in more detail by examining the individual elements of an army belt, which allow us to determine its type.

Classic trouser belt, which was originally used in military uniforms, consists of a standard band, a buckle, several belt loops needed for general support, and a buckle. In addition, most military belts were decorated with metal or brass plaques, which, as a rule, were engraved with the symbols of the military units or state to which they belonged.

Of course, for a military attribute, the key role is played by its practicality, and not design or style. The color of the ribbon could vary from black to brown, beige and even white, which completely depended on the type and purpose of the belt. The buckle was tighter and more closed, and modern belts even have automatic versions. An abundance of belt loops was necessary not only for better fixation of the tape, but also for attaching various ammunition, such as a flask or holster.

It’s easy to understand that even the simplest soldier’s belt is strikingly different from the fashion accessories we are used to. Of course, this is especially noticeable if we take as an example a real military belt, which is often used as additional ammunition. As a result, we can highlight the following characteristic features that distinguish a military waist belt:

• One of the main and important features is high quality. This accessory is made from durable leather or canvas and is highly resistant to various factors such as cuts, scratches, moisture and sun;
• Military belt width, as a rule, noticeably larger than that of “civilians”, and can exceed 6-7 cm;
• A characteristic feature is a plaque. The decoration is discreet. Despite the fact that many troops around the world have abandoned belts as an official integral part of ammunition, the plaques must have an engraving in the form of a symbol of the type of military forces or the country’s coat of arms;
• They may have additional movable or fixed belt loops.

It is worth emphasizing that a real soldier's belt was made in such a way as to ensure lightness and convenience for the warrior. That is why such accessories turn out to be very practical, the buckle mechanisms are reliable, the material is noticeably superior in quality in comparison with the same classic trouser or “casual” belts.

Species

The men's belt has undergone a huge number of changes and innovations throughout the history of its existence. It is not surprising that even in the army there are quite a few types of this piece of uniform. Today it is very difficult to identify any general classification that would make it easy to select something specific.

However, you can try to categorize military belts depending on their overall style, time of use, region, and more.

For example, among modern connoisseurs of “military” style, army belts from the times of the USSR are very popular. Moreover, we are talking about real field belts, not officer belts. The main advantage of such an accessory is its fairly high quality, because if we are talking about a real belt of those times, then we can easily imagine how competently they were made, if even today they have retained their presentable appearance and reliability.

The same can be said not only about the belt itself, but also about its buckle. Its mechanism is quite simple and reliable. And, of course, we must not forget about its main detail - the field version always had a badge decorated with an engraving in the shape of a star.

The belts of NATO military forces also deserve special attention. There is a wide range of choice here for those who are interested in something non-standard. There are belts with a double buckle, as a rule, these are ceremonial versions, combined ones, with additional pockets and belt loops, and belts with an automatic buckle. Most of them, when compared with the same uniform from the times of the USSR, are belts of a new type.

As for decoration and engravings, a rectangular or semicircular plaque is a kind of standard for many field options. The engraving differs depending on the country or even the type of unit where this equipment option is used.

It is also worth noting the ceremonial options. THEIR distinctive feature is the use of leather substitute, which, however, was of fairly good quality for this type of material. Also noteworthy is the loose buckle, devoid of decoration and more open than it becomes similar to the classic trouser type. The width of ceremonial belts is much smaller - about 4-5 cm. They were also often highlighted in white.

By the way, color is also a feature that distinguishes modern uniform belts. They are made of thick fabric or canvas, their classic color is “khaki” or dark camouflage. They are also characterized by small automatic buckles that make it easy to adjust the length of the belt and fix it.

Materials

It is important to understand that today we purchase a military belt for overall style. But it was originally intended for completely different purposes. That is why the roughest but most reliable materials were used to create such an accessory. Many people know that if you want to buy a really high-quality leather belt, then you should pay attention to the military version of such an accessory. Even old uniforms from the USSR times can give a head start to modern expensive brands.

Also, don't underestimate the canvas belt. Today it is a priority material for modern uniform and tactical elements of uniforms. They are quite strong and light. But various leather substitutes are considered an impractical type of material for military uniforms. These are found only in the case of simplified ceremonial types of belts.

Decor

Very rarely, military versions can boast of rich decor. Most often it was characteristic of field belts, which were equipped with a badge. For example, the same samples of USSR military uniforms were engraved with a star. Some modern uniforms can be decorated with inscriptions. But this is rather an exception to the rule, since engraving and additional decoration are a distinctive feature of more “younger” styles.

Colors

Military style is clearly not for lovers of a rich palette. As is the case with engraving, military belts are characterized by a peculiar modesty in terms of colors.

Noble materials for making belts:

• Metal - makes a thing durable and beautiful only if the metal is of high quality;
• Natural suede is pleasant and soft to the touch. It has scratches, pores, and can change color when you run your hand over it. It is characterized by high cost;
• Genuine leather makes the accessory expensive, soft, and of high quality. A special edge processing technology means that the belt can serve its owner for a long time without fraying or wearing off;
• Textiles are pleasant to the touch, have a wide variety of shades and textures, are soft, get dirty quickly, and require constant ironing;
• Cotton is a natural, soft, body-friendly material. A belt made from it needs special care, since when washed at high temperatures the fabric may shrink or fade.

Artificial/synthetic materials:

• Artificial suede - characterized by durability, reasonable prices, color uniformity, resistance to abrasion, fraying and fading;
• Artificial leather - forms creases and tears in a short period of time. Harder to the touch, inexpensive;
• Lycra (elastane) - helps the product stay clean longer, maintain its original appearance, not fade, and not fade in the sun;
• Polyamide is an extremely durable material, does not get wet, bends well and does not break, can be painted in various colors, and does not absorb moisture. Among the disadvantages, it is worth noting the high cost, as well as the fact that polyamide does not remove greasy stains well;
• Polymer is a durable material and has a wide range of colors. Short-lived, low strength, toxic, flammable;
• Polyester is a durable material that is poorly permeable to moisture and practically does not become dirty. The disadvantages include rigidity, difficult to paint, and does not allow air to pass through, so in hot weather the body always sweats under it.

Poll: What material should a high-quality belt be made of?

Types of belt buckles

Regardless of the material from which the belt is made, special attention should be paid to the buckle. It can be of the following types:

• Classic - has a tongue, frame, open design, suitable for all types of belts. Its disadvantage is that things often get caught on the tongue;
• Automatic - adjusts the length of the belt using special hooks and a built-in mechanism;
• Two- and three-slit - durable fittings that fix and adjust the belt due to friction against the belt material;
• Lock - provides quick fastening due to the presence of a special clamp, is simple and durable;
• Roller - has two tongues that provide good fixation;
• Large buckle (buckle) - suitable for wide belts;
• Buckle-clip, secures the belt automatically due to its simple design;
• Plastic;
• Copper - intended for young girls;
• Leather - has a solid base, smooth on top or decorated with decorative elements;
• Forged.

Types and styles of belts

Thanks to the wide variety of fashionable belts, absolutely every woman will choose one that will be an excellent addition to her look. The following types of belts are known in the fashion industry:

1. Wide women's belt- is a belt that can be worn around the waist or just under the chest. Placing them too high is only permissible for short women, since this wardrobe detail will make their silhouette appear much longer. Quite often it is complemented with heavy or large buckles.

WIDE FABRIC SASH

2. Classic women's- have a width of 4.5 to 5 cm. They are often worn with shorts, trousers, jeans. They are complemented by metal buckles of different sizes.

3. Chain- an incredibly feminine belt that will suit any outfit. Performs a purely aesthetic function. When choosing such a belt, you need to pay attention to the coating material, since it must be as durable as possible, withstand mechanical damage, and not be scratched or washed off when exposed to moisture.

4. Elastic band- is a thick elastic band. Has tightening properties;

5. Women's fitness belt- designed to correct your figure in a short period of time. This is achieved due to the presence in this accessory of a special insert that can create a sauna effect, while burning fat and removing toxins.

6. Braided belt- will make the girl really charming. Suitable for those with a non-standard figure. Due to the weaving, additional holes are not made in the belt. This explains the presence or absence of a buckle on it. If desired, it can be tied with a small knot, thus adjusting its length.

7. Narrow belt with classic buckle. Its width does not exceed 2 cm. The buckle cannot be too heavy and massive, otherwise the product will sag unsightly and may eventually tear. Fat girls should not wear it, because it will not be able to hide their shortcomings.

NARROW CLASSIC BUCKLED

8. Western style- most often made of natural or artificial leather. Decorated with carved, massive or thin buckle, stones, and Western style overlays. It is also possible to introduce the spirit of the West through abrasions that create the impression of antiquity, an expensive item, and luxury.

9. Rope/cord- made of dense threads twisted together. The material of a fashion accessory must resist abrasions, not fray, and not twist.

11. With asymmetrical buckle. Its task is to attract additional attention from others. Slight unevenness and asymmetry in proportions make it unique. Suitable for classic trousers and jeans.

ASYMMETRICAL NOVELTY BUCKLE

12. Greek belt- made of metal, leather, beads. Often, additional elements on it are made of bronze, decorating them with antique ornaments. If beads, bugles, or beads are used, they are also woven in the Greek style. Sometimes for tight black dresses they use a belt that imitates the armor of the ancient Greeks. All segments in such a belt are made of different lengths, keeping only the same motifs on all parts.

13. In a sporty style- goes best with trousers, jeans and shorts.

SPORT STYLE BELT

14. Elastic- has a width of about 4 cm. Suitable for girls with a slender waist. In this case, it not only emphasizes the dignity of the figure, but also holds trousers and shorts, preventing them from sliding down.

ELASTIC SPORT BELT

15. Indian- can be made of leather, metal or dense threads, skillfully knitted together. It is complemented by a buckle with images of Indian gods, shamans, warriors, some patterns and precious stones. Feathers, baubles, and beads are often used as decoration.

16. Free- often knitted or denim. It goes with any style of clothing and suits both full and thin figures.

TWOTHIN LOOSE BELTS

17. Fabric belt without buckle- will be an excellent addition to dresses made of light or thick fabric. It can also be neatly tied on a blouse or tunic. In this case, you need to make sure that the belt stands out well against the background of the clothing and can attract the necessary attention.

18. Belt rope with knots. It is worn exclusively at the waist. More suitable for loose dresses or blouses. Tied with several knots. Decorated with fabric tassels. Never has a buckle.

19. With double ring.

20. Narrow metal belt- can be fastened with a latch or decorative elements in the form of petals and leaves. Depending on the metal, the belt can sometimes stretch a little. Worn exclusively at the waist, emphasizing all the advantages of its owner.

NARROW METAL EXPANSION

21. Classic belt of medium width. For its production, leather, suede, and textiles are used. Equipped with a buckle, possibly with a small pattern. It is not particularly pretentious or sophisticated, since it is used for everyday wear.

Any belt consists of two parts: a buckle and a ribbon made of leather or other material. Additional elements are a loop and a tip. The loop secures the free edge of the belt, and the tip protects it from wear. On a leather belt it is usually metal, on a fabric belt it is leather.

What types of belts are there?

Strict

They are not much different from each other. Let's look at their general characteristics.

Buckle

Shiny and smooth, gold or silver color. Usually in the form of a frame. It differs from everyday ones in its smaller size.

Width

Strict belts are always thin. The width should not exceed 2.5–3.8 centimeters.

Material

Exclusively leather. Natural or very good artificial if you are against using animal skin.

The most common material is cowhide. She is beautiful and durable. Calfskin is softer and more elastic. Belts made from it are considered to be of especially high quality.

Rare and expensive options are crocodile or snake skin. In dark colors they are quite suitable for strict ones.

Color

A strict belt should not draw attention to itself. Traditional colors are black and brown. For a less formal dress code, deep red, beige, dark blue, gray are also suitable, and for the summer - white. The surface of the belt should be smooth and slightly glossy, preferably without a pattern.

Combining a belt with a suit

The leather of the belt should match the color and shine of the shoes. And the buckle goes with the rest of the metal accessories, with the exception of the wedding ring.

Everyday

When choosing a belt for every day, you can use your imagination. It will reflect your personality and sense of style.

Width

Casual belts are wider than formal belts, usually 3.8–4.5 centimeters. The 3.8 cm wide belt goes well with chinos and thick fabrics. Wider ones can be worn with jeans and casual trousers, combined with a classic or bold buckle.

Color

Brown is a universal color for everyday wear. Black belts do not go well with jeans or khakis. If you want to add personality to your look, pay attention to bright colors.

What kind of buckles are there for everyday belts?

Frame

On everyday belts it is larger and more massive than on formal belts.

Buckle-plate

Usually unfastened. Most often with an inscription or pattern. Makes the belt longer.

Automatic buckle

There are no holes in a belt with this type of buckle. The tape is fixed inside the buckle itself.

D or O shaped buckles

They consist of one or two rings through which the belt is threaded. Such buckles are most often found on wicker and canvas belts.

Buckle-lock

The opposite ends snap together, like a seat belt. A very practical type of buckle. Popular among those who lead an active lifestyle.

What material are belts made of?

• Genuine Leather. Everyday leather belts are wider and stiffer. They are usually made from the outer layer of cowhide. On some, they deliberately leave traces of scars or marks that were on the animal’s skin during life.
• Braided leather. A good option when you want to subtly refresh your look. Woven belts don't go well with suits, but they do go well with sports jackets. A multi-colored belt can be worn with khaki shorts and a polo shirt in summer.
• Embossed leather. Such belts will fit well into a simple look, for example, pair with jeans and a basic shirt. Don't wear them with bright clothes. Together they will look too flashy.
• Leather combined with tape. A bright and bold option that will help you stand out. Pairs well with boat shoes and golf shoes.
• Suede. Less wearable than leather. For durability, the backing of such belts is made of leather.
• Woven fabric. Practical material, suitable for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. There are colors and patterns to suit every taste.
• Rope. It is more often found in women's wardrobes, but is also quite suitable for men's clothing. Such belts, for example, are worn by sailors. Usually they are secured not with a buckle, but with a knot. This belt will last a long time and will not suffer, even if it gets wet.
• Canvas fabric. This belt with a metal buckle is a simple but practical option. Usually it is plain or with a horizontal stripe of a contrasting color.
• Vinyl. Bright, bold and cheap option. Suitable only for young people, and only at a concert. Most often it looks tasteless.

When should you wear a belt?

Ideally with any pants that have belt loops. That's why they are sewn on. Without a belt, the look will look careless.

A belt is required with business suits. For a more casual look with an untucked shirt, you can skip it.

If desired, the belt can be replaced with suspenders. They will perform the same function - they will hold the trousers in place. Suspenders are especially good for, they will visually reduce the volume at the waist. Plus, they will make you appear taller. The main thing is not to wear a belt and suspenders at the same time.

What should you combine the belt with?

A belt can complement your look or contrast with the rest of your outfit. In the first case, it should be combined in color with other parts of the costume, for example with shoes. This is a must for strict belts. For everyday wear, it is enough to combine the color of the buckle with metal accessories. And the color of the shoes does not have to match. For example, it is quite possible to wear brown with beige or beige with white. The main thing is that the belt fits into the image. When in doubt, choose brown.

Another option is a bright or unusual style belt. In this case, build an image around it. Choose plain items and accessories without patterns. One or two bright spots in the image are enough. Don't forget that such a belt will draw attention to your waist. Don't wear it if you're not confident.

Formal and casual belts can sometimes replace each other. The former are suitable not only for business jackets, but also for more formal sports jackets. Casual ones can be combined not only with jeans and shorts, but also with chinos.

When clothing clearly belongs to a certain style, the belt should match. A formal belt will look out of place with casual trousers. It will seem disproportionately thin. A casual belt with a business suit will ruin the serious impression you want to make.

How to determine your size?

Measure the waistband of your pants. The belt should be 3–5 centimeters longer. Or just measure your old belt.

If you find a belt that is the wrong size or your old one is too small, don’t make new holes yourself. They will stand out noticeably, and the belt itself may break at the puncture site. Take it to a shoe repair shop.

A straight belt should have a short free end. Only a few centimeters of the belt should be visible from under the fastened buckle - enough to pass through the first loop.

So how do you choose a quality belt?

Everyday belts can be changed every couple of years depending on fashion or desire. It is better to buy a strict belt for a long time. If you choose a quality one, it will serve you for decades. The ideal option is a calfskin belt. It should be soft and flexible.

• Bend the belt to check if the leather is cracking. Lightly press the underside of the belt with your fingernail. If a small mark remains, the leather is still soft. There will be no marks left on old hard leather.
• Pay attention to the stitches. They should be small, close to each other, without protruding threads.
• See if the buckle is removable. A belt with a removable buckle is more profitable. You can change it depending on the situation.
• The brand isn't that important. It is unlikely that anyone will notice that you are wearing a designer belt. Quality leather and accuracy are more important.

The belt has long become a permanent accessory in the wardrobe of a modern person. This item not only performs the function of holding the trousers in the required position, but can also become an indicator of status and a reflection of the individuality of its owner. There are several types of belts, each of which has its own purpose. In addition, there are belts designed separately for women and men.

The history of belts dates back to the distant past, presumably to the very beginning of the Bronze Age. According to scientists, around this very time, one of the primitive people thought of girding the skin draped over the body with a piece of vine. However, it could equally well have been a strip of bark or a piece of other skin. It is difficult to say more precisely, for obvious reasons. However, a precedent was created - wearing a skin tied with an improvised belt made it both warmer and more comfortable to move while hunting.

And some tribes of Africa, South America and Oceania still use similar devices.

The invention of leather processing technology gave impetus to the development of an entire manufacturing industry. Armor, clothing, and shoes were made from leather. And from the remaining scraps - . Dated around 2000 BC, clay cuneiform tablets telling about the life of the ruling dynasty of ancient Babylon, Hammurabi, contain detailed descriptions of the process of tanning leather and making various products from it, including belts. It is known that the ancient Sumerians, Assyrians and Persians used belts and belts for more than just holding up their pants. Weapons and wallets were attached to the belt, and secret pockets were sewn on. The Scythians, for example, wore small belt bags to store various household items, which was very convenient during their nomadic life.

In Ancient Greece and Rome, the most common clothing were tunics and togas. Ordinary residents also used belts, but according to ancient fashion they did not wear them for show, but hid them under the folds of their clothes. The situation was different in military units. Legionnaires wore the belts openly, as part of their armor. For Roman gladiators, the belt was more like a corset - wide, with sewn metal plates, it served the function of protecting the abdominal muscles.

Among many peoples, a belt was considered a very significant item. For example, the Mongol tribes, when concluding an allied treaty, sealed the oath of allegiance by exchanging belts. And the Franks were convinced that if you capture the enemy’s belt, you can deprive him of his strength, and for this reason they often stole belts from their rivals. The ancient Greeks had similar prejudices, which was reflected in their myths. During one of his twelve labors, Hercules stole the belt of the Amazon queen Hippolyta, thereby depriving her of invulnerability and mystical power.

By the way, regarding the differences between a belt and a belt. It is generally accepted that the first one is necessarily equipped with a buckle with which it is fastened. It also makes it possible to adjust the length of the belt. The belt does not have a buckle, and is usually tied, leaving the ends free. As for the decoration of both, embroidery, decorative cords, and, of course, inserts made of precious metals and stones acted in this capacity.

The belts of the aristocracy, kings and emperors were particularly rich in decoration. By the way, the material for belts was not only leather or fabric. The belt of the Assyrian ruler is known, entirely made of bronze, decorated with forging.

Emperors wore belts embroidered with gold embroidery and precious stones, emphasizing the status of the sovereign ruler. The vizier's gold belt with preserved enamel inserts has survived to this day.

But such exquisite accessories were still rare. In the Middle Ages, the belt became primarily part of the equipment of the military class. Helmets, armor, leggings - all these elements of armor were secured to the knights with belts. And weapons were hung from the waist belt - swords, daggers, broadswords. Since all this weighed quite a bit, the straps had to be strong enough. Therefore, they were made mainly from cowhide.

Of course, the most striking element of the belts was. The material for them could be either simple or precious metal, and the buckles themselves often turned into real objects of art, reflecting the status of their owner.

Images of heraldic animals, family coats of arms, inlay with gold, silver, enamel and precious stones - the higher the title of the belt bearer, the richer it was decorated.

Perhaps the most famous is the one dating from the 17th century. n. e. coronation belt of the Shah of Iran - embroidered with gold threads and small precious stones, and topped off with a buckle with a huge 175.5 carat emerald surrounded by 60 cut diamonds and 145 smaller pink diamonds.

As for women's fashion, at that time the belt in a woman's wardrobe, although it served more of a decorative function, was in no way inferior to a man's in terms of the richness of its decoration. And with certain financial capabilities of the owner, it even became a real masterpiece. And we are not talking about the infamous “chastity belt” here. Judging by the samples that have come down to us, as well as medieval engravings and portraits, ladies' belts of that era were embroidered with beads, pearls, precious stones, and their long ends were often equipped with fringe or tassels.

The Age of Enlightenment brought its own changes in the evolution of belts. The nobility still wore richer belts, but now ruffles came into fashion, and the ends of ladies' belts became shorter.

Commoners dressed more simply, or even wore a rope around their waist. But significant changes have occurred in military uniforms. Lighter swords and espadrons, which replaced heavy swords, were now attached to special belt slings. This design was worn over clothing and was equipped with loops for securing bladed weapons. The pistols that appeared at that time were also worn on belts or behind it, and additionally pockets for gunpowder, wads and bullets were attached to it.

Improved methods of tanning leather also determined its choice for making bandages. The everyday versions of baldrics depicted in paintings and engravings, as well as those made of finer leather, richly embroidered and decorated ceremonial outfits, have survived to this day. Specimens preserved intact can be seen in museums. Of course, such things were not cheap at that time, so sometimes you had to save money. And how can one not recall Porthos with his ill-fated baldric from Dumas’s novel “The Three Musketeers”.

At the end of the 18th and beginning of the 19th centuries, high-waisted trousers with a large number of buttons came into fashion. A little later, suspenders appear. All these innovations have slightly replaced the usual belts and belts. Of course, they did not disappear completely and were present to a certain extent in men's costumes, especially among the nobility and the military. In a lady's wardrobe, the belt rather emphasized the waist, already tightened by a corset. In the second half of the 19th century, ladies' belts even became an element of outerwear.

Interest in belts resumed in the second half of the 19th century. With the beginning of the Crimean War, and later large-scale hostilities in the Balkans during the next Russian-Turkish war of 1877-78, sword belts appeared in the military uniforms of the highest army ranks - belt slings similar to those worn by musketeers.

Sabers and checkers, tablets with documents were attached to the waist belt, and another one or two belts crossed the upper part of the officer’s body vertically or crosswise.

It was convenient to attach a cloak or cloak to them, so initially such equipment was worn mainly in cavalry units.

A little later, specialized specimens appeared. For example, team sports were very popular among aristocrats at the end of the 19th century. The team uniforms included belts.

In everyday life, fashion also dictated its terms. Changed clothing styles - lower waisted trousers, the emergence of three-piece suits led to the fact that a belt turned out to be a more convenient option than suspenders. And finally, women's dresses began to be supplemented with separate removable belts.

In the 20th century, the belt completely entered people's lives. Tapered trousers with a wide belt equipped with a massive buckle are a distinctive element of casual clothing at the beginning of the century. Emancipation led to the fact that even ladies began to wear trousers. The development of the fashion industry has prompted the creation of new types of belts: combined, woven, twisted.

Thin belts for formal suits appeared. And Coco Chanel's famous black dress was in perfect harmony with a thin leather strap with an elegant buckle. The belt becomes a distinctive element in a woman's wardrobe.

Women's belts were originally thinner than men's. However, when choosing a belt to match a women's suit or jeans, the same rules apply as for men.

As for dresses, here designers most often focus on beauty. Usually the width of ladies' belts is from 1 to 2.5 cm, but they are made of leather and, as well as in the form of chains, or combined with other materials. Buckles can be either openwork and elaborate, or the most ordinary. At the same time, a belt can become either a bright accent in an outfit or simply complement it.

Having come a long way, the belt has remained a popular and sought-after accessory in the modern wardrobe. And apparently, it will remain there for a long time.

A leather belt is one of the most important and essential accessories for a man.. Leather men's belts are presented in huge quantities nowadays. They have been worn and worn since time immemorial, and there were times when the belt was a symbol of spiritual and temporal power.
Let's consider the structure of the belt and its component parts - the belt consists of a single piece of leather, a buckle, a tongue and a belt loop (more precisely, there should be two of them: one is fixed next to the buckle, and the second moves freely along the length of the belt).

This ideal simplicity and functionality of the belt was formed as a result of centuries-old practice of wearing it.

Let's take a look at what you should pay attention to when choosing a belt.

1. Pay attention to the thickness, width and quality of the leather on the top and back:

• The thickness of the belt should not interfere with its elasticity. Bend the belt to create a curve. There should be no signs of deformation on the crease. The horizontal elasticity of the belt should be moderate (no more than 10 mm over the entire length of the belt). The so-called “oak” belts will not create comfort when wearing it.
• The width of the trouser belt is from 30 to 35 mm. These are leather suit belts. Typically, fine, thin belts are suitable for lightweight dress pants.
• Belt width for jeans (Casual) - 40 mm. These are durable belts with a massive buckle. In the “cowboy” version, wide buckles with double tongues are possible.
• universal belts with a width of 35 mm are equally suitable for trousers and jeans.

In any case, it is important that the width of the belt loops on your trousers or jeans allows the belt to pass through them freely.

2. The belt should be fastened to the middle hole, usually the third. If the belt is too long, it must be shortened to normal length.

3. It is not recommended to pierce additional holes in the belt yourself.– this is not always acceptable. If the hole is too small, the tongue will hardly fit into the hole, and the lacquered leather covering in this place will bristle and quickly wear out - the belt will look worn out. Due to constant loads when passing through such a hole, the tongue can either break or jump off the buckle axis. If you make a hole in the belt that is too large, it may cause the belt to skew under the buckle because the tongue will not hold the belt firmly enough in the hole. Conclusion - it is advisable to use the services of a specialist who will adjust the length of the belt to the desired size.

Tips for those who decide to adjust the belt length themselves: pay attention to the presence of a screw, which is located where the belt is attached to the buckle on the wrong side. The screw is unscrewed, the end of the belt is released, the required distance is noted, which will ensure the necessary fixation of the tongue in the hole. To do this, take the waist circumference and measure it from the third or fourth hole at the other end of the belt, trimming off the excess. Follow the folk wisdom: “measure seven times”! The end of the belt is cut to the marked length from the buckle side. A place is marked for the hole, which must exactly coincide with the location of the screw. A hole is made in this place using an awl. The end of the belt is secured with a screw.

4. Take another closer look at the details of the belt. They may have both additional pros and cons. For example, the front belt loop may be made of metal, and the buckle bracket may have a “rolling roller” to allow the belt to pass through without unnecessary friction. Obvious disadvantages include “glued” belts. Sooner or later, an unstitched edge of the belt will lead to peeling of its back layer. In principle, it is more practical to choose a single-layer belt; it is more reliable and convenient to use. Such belts have longitudinal stitching, as well as a slightly rounded and painted cut, rather for an aesthetic appearance.

Let's move on to the aesthetic part of the question.

What belt will look beautiful in combination with a man's wardrobe, shoes and other leather accessories?
There is no arguing about tastes if there are indisputable ones requirements for belt selection.
You can choose a belt to match the watch strap (in this case, the color of the buckle must match the base metal of the watch case). But try to guard yourself against the idea of ​​wearing a wide Western belt with a suit. At the same time, even exotic men's snakeskin belts can go well with trousers and jeans. Belts made of crocodile, python or snake skin can be an excellent addition to classic belts and other accessories - wallets and briefcases in your wardrobe, due to the fact that these items have the same unusual pattern and color of the leather.

Stylish unity and selection by color and tone have not yet been canceled.

Nothing has changed fundamentally here since men began wearing suits, ties, shoes and belts. In this case, strict, no-frills belts that match your shoes and suit will not allow you to be considered a “great original.” Although recently it has become fashionable to match a classic suit with a belt that matches the shirt. For example, with a light blue shirt with thin blue stripes, a dark blue belt is allowed, etc.
Moreover, the most daring solutions are offered - to wear a colored belt in the evening with a classic black suit. If this sounds like you, feel free to experiment in the club spirit! Just remember to change the belt the next day if you need to be at work.