Winning The Belt

A belt seems like a pretty straightforward accessory, but the way you style it can actually make or break a whole look.

From traditional leather to trendy suede, the options are endless. But choosing a belt doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We spoke to Reginald Ferguson, men’s fashion consultant and founder of the New York Fashion Geek, to learn all the ins and outs of choosing your best belts.

The Shoes Matter

The first thing to consider, Ferguson says, is what you’re wearing, particularly your shoes. Are they leather loafers or sneakers? “I believe the belt should match the shoes, so if you are wearing leather shoes, one should go to a store and find the leather belt that matches that shade and complexion most closely,” Ferguson says. “There is a hard and fast rule with a leather belt being the same shade, or close to the same shade, as your leather shoe … a major faux pas would be a black belt and a brown shoe, or the inverse.”

The Pants Also Matter

For any pants with a leather shoe, a leather belt to match the shoe is a must. For casual khakis with sneakers, Ferguson says, you can have more fun. “Maybe you still have a leather belt but maybe it’s leather that has woven a pattern in wool or in cotton,” he says. With jeans and sneakers, you can go casual with a web belt in a variety of colors. “I often encourage clients to have web belts with D-ring buckles in their repertoire because it’s casual, it’s still stylish and it’s in colors and you can mix and match vis a vis your sneaker,” he says.

But Timelessness Prevails

“I am of the mind and approach that I tend to remain classic in my selections and in my advice to clients,” Ferguson says. “I don’t view a belt as a victim of the latest fashion.” So, when you’re choosing one, choose one of quality that will last. Ferguson says you can never go wrong with leather — it’s important to note it should never feel like plastic — and if you’re feeling more adventurous, try suede. Web belts come in nylon or cotton and in a multitude of colors. “These are classic staples,” Ferguson says. “And when you’re doing that, then you are somewhat timeless and you rebel against trends.”