Everyone always assumes that men have it easy when it comes to fashion, but the truth is that a well dressed and well prepared man is a little more complicated than most would believe. For instance: To belt or not to belt? Most folk believe that a belt is needed for dress slacks and suits. Others believe a belt is for pants that aren’t a perfect fit for the wearer. Belts are a point of contention for fashionable guys everywhere. So let’s jump in and put the matter to rest.
Yes, Belt
It seems to be an unwritten rule that if you’re wearing dress pants, you need to also be wearing a belt. The reason for this is because the pants have belt loops without a purpose if there’s no belt. Leaving the shirt untucked is an option, but it needs to go with your overall look. But keep in mind that tucking in a formal shirt brings unwanted attention to a beltless belt loop. You don’t even have to wear a traditional belt, a stylish tactical belt can turn you into the 007 you dreamed of being as a child. And if you’re ever unsure about whether your outfit could do with a belt, just put one on. Should your pants not be a perfect fit to your body, put a belt on. A belt is much more of a functional item than a decorative one. So if you need an improved fit, wear the belt.
No, Belt
There’s typically no need for a belt on pants that don’t have belt loops. These include sweatpants, intentionally loose pants and some custom tailored slacks. If you’re wearing a slimline shirt, you probably won’t be needing a belt because it will take away from the sleek and uninterrupted line you’re trying to create. Belts do not typically belong with a tuxedo, a cumberbund, or a three-piece suit. You may also want to consider ditching the belt when you want to get a little more adventurous with your footwear. Trying to coordinate your shoes with your belt can sometimes feel like an uphill battle.
Other Options
Fortunately, there are other alternatives to donning a belt. There are suspenders, custom tailoring and side tabs, just to name a few. Choosing any of these alternatives can give you the look and feel of a belt without actually having to bulk up the look of your waistline. Belts often add more texture and bulk to an area of the body that typically draws the eye, so opting for a more minimalist approach is certainly understandable.
Keep in mind that belts are not intended to be the linchpin for pants that are simply far too big for your waist. In these instances, it’s best to just choose another pair of pants to wear. Also remember that fashion is a very personal reflection of your unique self. There is definitely room for you to push the envelope and experiment with what you like and what you don’t like. If a belt just isn’t working with your fashion sensibilities, don’t wear one. And if belting makes you feel more complete and better dressed, go for it whenever it suits you.
