Belts
Belts are special. They’re one of the few accessories that actually alter the structure of what you’re wearing rather than just sit atop it. Slip a shirt into your trousers, add a belt and suddenly that okay ensemble feels considered.
That isn’t a small feat. It’s the difference between throwing clothes together and putting an outfit together. We’ve been discerning with our picks in this category because belts have a legitimate quality issue.
Many are too stiff, too thin, too cheap looking or strapped with so much hardware they no longer feel like accessories. We didn’t want any of those things. Instead, we’ve opted for belts that actually work; the kind of wide leather belts that hold a blazer together or cinch a midi dress at the waist; thin brown belts that slip through trouser loops without creating a distraction; woven belts that give your summer outfit a little something extra without overthinking it.
Belts also need to fit properly. There’s nothing worse than a belt that rides up or hangs too low. We’ve taken notice of fit across this edit and flagged where brands run large or small since we think that sort of information is what separates a curated list from a helpful one.
We’ve included belts for all sorts of occasions. Namely the belt you’ll reach for when wearing high waisted trousers. The one you throw over your coat in the winter to create shape without bulk.
Your everyday belt. You know the one. It goes with everything in your wardrobe and costs way less than it should.
We’ve also thrown in some belts that justify the proper investment; luxury belts made from leather that will soften with wear and look better as time goes on rather than crack and look worn after one season. If there’s one common theme between all of these belts it’s that each one earns its place in this round up. Not because they send us a press package or photograph well.
Because they fill a genuine need in your wardrobe and do so elegantly. A great belt shouldn’t take attention away from your outfit. In fact, it’s best when you stop noticing it altogether because it already feels like it belongs.
These are the kind of belts we’ve been searching for.