It’s time to buckle up, baby. Belts have evolved way beyond their original function of merely holding up a pair of slacks—they’re fashion statements in their own right with the power to entirely transform your look. Whether it’s a wrap design to cinch the waistline of a maxi dress or a skinny belt to add a pop of color, there are a few benefits to having more than one belt in your wardrobe.
And when it comes to leather belts, specifically, there are tons of options on the market. So how do you know which ones are actually worth it? With the advice and recommendations from our style experts, we’ve selected the best belts based on materials, size range, and style.
Our Top Picks Best Overall: Best Budget: Best Value: Best Wide: Best Skinny: Best Vintage-Inspired: Best Trendy: Best Fit: Best Monogram: Best Vegan:
Best Overall
Madewell Perfect Leather Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Pecan, True Black, True Black With Silver | Size Range: XXS—XXL
This genuine leather belt from Madewell certainly has the best price point around. It gets rave reviews and the oval buckle is made using a zinc-alloy plating process to prevent rust. It also comes in three hues.
Best Budget
CHAOREN Leather Belt with Gold Buckle
Materials: Leather | Colors: 12 Including Tan, Black, White | Size Range: 27–40 Inches
This genuine leather belt from Amazon certainly has the best price point around. It gets rave reviews, and the oval buckle is made using a zinc-alloy plating process to prevent rust. It also comes in 10 hues (including all the classics).
Best Value
JASGOOD Leather Skinny Belt 2-Pack
Materials: Leather | Colors: Black, Brown | Size Range: Adjustable (Below 37 or 43 Inches)
Since you always want at least two belts in your wardrobe, this two-pack is a great purchase to round out your wardrobe. It’s not genuine leather, but we like the sleek, interlocking buckle and the adjustable back, plus the fact that it comes in fun different colors so you can mix and match.
Best Wide
Cuyana Wide Leather Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Chestnut, Black | Size Range: XS—L/XL
A wide belt is a must in any fashion lover’s closet, and this option from Cuyana just might be one of our favorites ever. “This is the perfect belt to wear with a dress to accentuate your waist,” says fashion expert Dana Bandi. “The minimal hardware allows it to be functional without necessarily drawing attention in a ‘statement belt’ way.” Crafted from smooth Italian leather, this wide belt will last for years.
Best Skinny
Anthropologie Leather Western Belt
Sizes: XS–XL | Colors: Red, Cream, Black | Size Range: XS—XL
The beauty of a skinny belt is its versatility: You can don it with jeans, a mini skirt, a long dress, or dress slacks and it’ll add just the right accent. Stylist Ashlyn Greer recommends this one from Anthropologie that features gold-tone hardware and bright red leather. Though, the luscious white is elegant, too.
Best Vintage-Inspired
B-Low the Belt Kennedy Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Black/Gold, Bone/Gold, Camel/Gold | Size Range: XS—XL
With its classic black color with creamy beige on the reverse side, the Kennedy Belt gives off ‘90s throwback vibes with a modern twist. We love the contrast the gold hardware offers, though you can also opt for the bone or camel hues for a subtler impact.
Best Trendy
Gucci Blondie Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: White, Black, Beige/Ebony GG Canvas | Size Range: Gucci 60-120
Known for its eye-catching, prominent buckle featuring the interlocking “G” logo, this Gucci belt has been seen everywhere over the past several years, and quickly became a favorite amongst celebrities and fashionistas. There have since been a lot of knock-offs of the now-ubiquitous belt, but the OG version is still a timeless investment piece.
Best Fit
Poppy Barley The Accent Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Black/Gold, Biscotti/Gold, Cheetah Calf Hair/Gold, Black/Silver, Biscotti/Silver, Lion Suede | Size Range: 26–46 inches
The right belt can really complete an outfit, and this classic smooth leather belt with a D-shaped buckle is one Greer's favorites. Made in Mexico, you can ensure the right fit since the company offers exact-inch options before you purchase online. And since many people are particular about their preference between gold or silver, here, you can choose either hardware hue.
Best Monogram
Coach Sculpted C Buckle Reversible Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Brass/Tan/Rust | Size Range: OS
There’s nothing we love more than a reversible belt, and this one from Coach is absolutely gorgeous. It can be worn on the monogram or rust side, and with gold-toned hardware, it’s a match made in heaven. "The understated hardware is the perfect combination with the monogrammed leather,” says Bandi. “Monogram can make a belt a little more flashy, so the hardware balances nicely here." We’d also like to note the sizing—it’s technically one size and can be cut with a pair of scissors to each user’s liking.
Best Vegan
Gap Vegan Leather Belt
Materials: Polyurethane | Colors: True Black, Dark Brown, Metallic Gold, Red | Size Range: XS—XL
Looking for a vegan leather option? We suggest getting your hands on this Gap belt, which comes in three stunning colors that are all too easy to style. With a minimalist, round buckle in a gold hue, this completely vegan leather belt deserves a spot in your wardrobe lineup.
Best Oval Buckle
Abercrombie & Fitch Oval Buckle Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Light Brown, Cream, Black | Size Range: XXS/XS—L/XL
If a square buckle isn’t your thing, try this oval buckle belt from Abercrombie & Fitch, instead. The 100% genuine leather comes in three core colors to compliment any outfit, and the width is just under 1-inch. "I see this belt as the perfect accessory for an A-line dress,” says Bandi.
Best 1-Inch
J.Crew Classic belt in Italian leather
Materials: Leather | Colors: Black, Dark Nutmeg, Leopard, Espresso, Black Croc, Black With Heart Buckle | Size Range: XS—XL
This classic belt from J.Crew is crafted from Italian leather and makes for a staple piece. With various band and even gold-toned buckle options to choose from, there’s a style to fit every aesthetic. It’s elegant, traditional, and sure to become a favorite.
Best Western-Style
Streets Ahead Violet Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Black | Size Range: XS—XL
If you’re looking for a little Western flair with a modern twist, this belt from Streets Ahead features a black Italian leather band with a vintage-inspired gold buckle. With engraved details and a metal tip, this Western-style belt gives off just the right amount of pizazz combined with a laid-back appeal, while still being fashion-forward.
Best Bow
Kate Spade Bow Belt
Materials: Leather, Polyurethane, PVC | Colors: Black, Parchment, Green, Strawberry Shake, Ponderosa Red | Size Range: XS—XL
Kate Spade is a master at the accessories game, and this sophisticated bow belt is no exception. It’s priced right at under $60 bucks on Nordstrom and comes in multiple shades, including Strawberry Shake, Ponderosa Red. There’s a '50s appeal to this belt, which would look especially cute with A-line dresses.
Best for Short Dresses
Banana Republic Leather Corset Waist Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Deep Chocolate Brown, Black | Size Range: XS—XXL
Corset waist belts are our go-to belt style to wear with short dresses, and for good reason! Not only do they snatch you in all the right places and accentuate your waistline, but this specific belt from Banana Republic is also made from sturdy leather in a vintage design. We love the idea of wearing it with short dresses, over large sweaters, and overall as a fun layering piece.
Best High-End
Saint Laurent Cassandre Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Black (With Different Buckle Colors Available) | Size Range: 26—42 Inches
YSL has been dominating in the accessories department, whether it’s purses, handbags, or wallets—and now belts. This slim, stylish belt is made with calfskin leather and silver-toned hardware that can easily be looped through dressy trousers or skinny jeans. And while it still subtly shows off the brand’s logo, we think it nails the quiet aesthetic perfectly.
Best Glittery
Streets Ahead Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Gold | Size Range: XS—XL
If we could wear a glittery belt every single day, we’d without a doubt choose this one from Streets Ahead. The band itself is made from genuine leather and features gold-toned hardware which looks amazing paired with all of the glittery details. It gives off an ultra-cool vibe and is the best choice for a night out on the town.
Best for Long Dresses
Free People Leather Obi Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: 8 Including Cream, Midnight, Black Shimmer | Size Range: OS
Recommended by Greer, this curious luxe wrap belt has a slight sheen and cinches at the natural waistline, making it a great choice for long, flowy dresses. But we’re here for the color options, which range from neon green “Palm Leaf Python” to supple cognac and metallic rose.
Best Buckle
Theory Center Bar Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Black, White, Tan | Size Range: P/S—M/L
When we think of our ideal belt, our minds instantly go to something classic and chic, like this option from Theory. With a polished silver buckle on a black, white, or tan band, this versatile belt can be worn with jeans, trousers, or any other sort of bottom that has belt loops. The options are truly limitless.
Best Statement
Khaite The Lucca Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Coffee Suede With Gold, Black Leather With Gold, Natural Python-Embossed Leather With Silver, Black Haircalf With Silver, Black Leather With Silver | Size Range: 27.6—35.5 Inches
Animal print isn’t a trend that will ever go out of style, in fact, we’d argue it’s a total classic. And this python belt from Khaite has our attention. It’s dramatic in the best way possible, and if you’re not into snake print, you’ll be glad to know it comes in a number of other variations. “The python-embossed leather is perfectly paired with the silver hardware to give it a very modern look,” says Bandi. “I see this paired with a dress or with jeans and a crop top.”
Best Extended Sizes
Tommy Hilfiger Reversible Dress Casual Belt
Materials: Polyurethane, Leather | Colors: Tan/Navy, White/Black | Size Range: XS—XXXL
Another reversible belt we’re loving is this one from Tommy Hilfiger, which is available in extended sizes. Our favorite is the tan and navy color combination, and we appreciate how users can get even more wear out of it. Featuring Tommy’s signature style with red and white flag stripes, the light gold hardware brings the entire look together.
Best Rectangle Buckle
AYR The Essential Belt
Materials: Leather | Colors: Cognac, Black | Size Range: 24—34 Inches
Belts come in all shapes and sizes, but we truly don’t think you can ever go wrong with a classic rectangular buckle, like this one from AYR. Available in both cognac and black, paired with the gold hardware, it gives off an almost vintage feel. Our favorite part about this belt though has to be the fact that there are no belt holes. How? It’s a sliding belt, meaning you can tailor it to your perfect fit with every wear without having to worry about it stretching out over time.
Best Rhinestone
Kate Hewko Chunky Vegan Embellished Belt
Materials: Vegan Leather | Colors: Diamond, Pearl | Size Range: S/M—M/L
For a rocker-style, go-bold-or-go-home look, this rhinestone-embellished stunner from Kate Hewko has it all. The vegan leather-baed belt is covered in large and in charge crystals against a black band with silver hardware, making it a top choice for those looking to make a statement with their accessories.
What to Look for in a Leather Belt
- Material: Leather is known for its incredible durability and longevity. If you go for a full-grain leather belt, the patina will age over time (resulting in a beautiful vintage effect). Keep the leather conditioned and hang the belt straight in the closet (rather than curling it up) so it doesn’t get creases. Vegan leather (polyurethane) won’t last as long, but it’s an animal-free option and generally less expensive.
- Style: When it comes to the style of leather belts, there are two that we tend to turn to—skinny and wide. “Given the size of a wide leather belt, I use these more as statement pieces, while skinny belts can have a lot more use,” says Bandi. “Skinny belts may be worn with a pant to add texture and a hint of hardware or can be worn around the waist to accentuate your figure. The main thing to consider is how much of a statement you’re trying to make with your belt and make the choice from there.”
- Color: While you can obviously choose any color belt, our experts say that black or brown is the way to go if you only want to invest in one belt. “It’s best to invest in either a brown or black belt depending on the color of the majority of your leather shoes,” says Bandi. “Aside from sneakers, I like to match the color of my belt to the color of my shoes, and because most shoes are black, investing in a black belt is most economical.”
FAQ
- How do I know my belt size?
“A belt size can vary based on where you wear it on your body (i.e., lower waist versus natural waist) or if you plan to layer it over pieces that add to the circumference of your natural size,” says celebrity designer Paul Hardy. “The [best move] is to purchase a belt based on the largest circumference that will be worn, but has enough holes or adjustment to reduce it to the smallest size.”
After you decide how you want to wear your belt, grab some measuring tape! “For belt sizing, the general rule of thumb is adding two inches to your waist size,” says Greer. “If you're looking for a belt to wear higher or lower than your natural waist, grab a measuring tape and choose the closest belt size by the inch.”
- How can I use a belt to style my outfit?
The ways to style an outfit with belts are seemingly limitless, and we tapped into our experts for some fool-proof ideas. “You can use leather for two main reasons: to break up or elevate an outfit. For example, if you’re wearing leather boots, you can wear a belt that’s the same color to have continuity in the outfit," says Bandi. "You can also wear leather belts to add another texture to the outfit.”
Hardy, on the other hand, says that belts are a great way to play around with proportions, stating, “Apart from wearing a belt in its traditional format (through belt loops), consider styling an outfit by layering a belt over a blazer, a dress, or a sweater,” he says. “A belt is also a way to fashion hack proportions, like turning a maxi dress into a midi (especially for people with petite frames).”
Why Trust Byrdie
Amber C. Snider is an New York City-based journalist and editor specializing in culture, design, and lifestyle stories with bylines in The New York Times, Architectural Digest, Teen Vogue, Refinery29, Elle Décor, Town & Country, Atmos, HuffPost, Fodor’s Travel, Lonely Planet, House Beautiful, Veranda, and more. She currently holds a Master of Arts degree in Liberal Studies, teaches college art & culture and English literature in Manhattan, and her debut nonfiction book on spiritual awakenings is set for late 2024 with Llewellyn Publishers.
Taylor Augustin is a freelance beauty and fashion writer with bylines in Brides, Popsugar, Who What Wear, Teen Vogue, and more. With a closet full of accessories, she particularly loves leather belts and finding fun and unique ways to style them.
Together, they spoke to the following experts:
- Dana Bandi is a fashion expert and founder of her synonymous brand
- Ashlyn Greer, is a stylist and co-founder and owner of Fashivly
- Paul Hardy is a fashion designer of his synonymous brand
According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough leather belts from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.
