Choosing the right belt goes beyond just holding up your pants; it's a key element for your overall look. Whether you're dressing up for a formal event or keeping it casual for a weekend outing, the right belt can make or break your style. In this guide, we'll show you how to select the perfect belt for various occasions.
Belt Width
Begin by determining the specific context in which the belt is intended to be worn:
- Formal or Business Occasions: For events where sophistication is key, lean towards a narrower belt. Our 33mm ODYAS belts are tailored for elegant or business settings, ensuring a polished and refined look. The sleek width also complements dressier attire, adding a touch of elegance.
- Casual and Relaxed Looks: When aiming for a laid-back vibe or pairing your belt with jeans or chinos, a wider belt is the way to go. Our 38mm ODYAS belts are ideal for these occasions, giving you a casual and stylish flair.
- Proportions Matter: Our first two rules are not in every case the best way to go. Individuals with a slimmer physique are generally better suited to a narrower belt, such as our 33mm option. It avoids overpowering a slender frame, maintaining a balanced and harmonious look. If you're tall and slender, the 33mm belt can be your go-to for virtually any outfit or occasion. Conversely, those with a larger build can opt for our 38mm belts, even pairing them with an elegant suit.
Buckle Style
Generally, we differentiate between open-style buckles and closed buckles. While both can work in any setting, the choice depends on several factors to determine which one works better for you.
Open-style buckles are the most common type. They earn their name because, when worn, you can still see the belt as it is framed by the buckle. This versatile look makes them the preferred buckle type. Depending on the design, open-style buckles can suit almost every occasion, from elegant dress pants to casual jeans or even shorts – an open buckle always looks good. Our ODYAS buckles are specifically designed to work in any setting, be it elegant or casual.
Closed buckles offer a cleaner, simpler form and are typically associated with dress pants. Due to their volume, they may appear bigger and boxier than an open buckle, requiring more consideration. A closed buckle tends to draw more attention to your midsection, potentially adding visual weight. If you are a larger person and prefer not to emphasize your stomach, an open buckle might be a more suitable option for you.
Strap Material
Most belts are made from leather, but there are other options, often seen in leisure or specific applications like worker or tactical belts.
For formal occasions, always go with leather; it should have a subtle shine for an elegant and classy look. On the casual side, opt for a matte appearance. While leather is still popular, especially in summer or with shorts, you can also find belts made from canvas and other materials. Just be cautious, as these alternative materials aren't generally recommended for elegant outfits.
Our ODYAS straps come in a variety of options but what they all have in common is the great quality of our leather. From our sophisticated 33mm straps with a polished shine to our laid-back 38mm casual straps with a matte finish, we offer diverse choices. Additionally, our canvas straps are ideal for leisure outfits, providing even more versatility in your selection.
Colors
When it comes to belt and buckle colos, there is one easy rule: make sure the color of your belt strap matches your shoes.
Whether it's the classic elegance of black-on-black or the timeless pairing of brown strap with brown shoes, it will contribute to a put-together look. While exceptions to this rule exist, sticking to this guideline ensures you'll always have a stylish appearance.
For formal events, stick to classic combinations such as black and silver or brown and gold for a refined appearance. For casual outings, feel free to experiment with colors and textures, introducing a more relaxed and laid-back vibe.
In the realm of classic combinations, the Black Strap with Silver Buckle stands as a timeless choice. Its sleekness and versatility make it ideal for formal occasions, effortlessly complementing dressy outfits. Conversely, the Brown Strap with Gold Buckle presents a warm and traditional option, equally at home in casual and business settings. This combination harmonizes beautifully with earthy tones in your wardrobe. With these two variations, you've already got a versatile foundation that works for any occasion.
For a laid-back and casual vibe, Canvas Straps with Black, Silver or Brass Buckles offer a perfect solution. The rugged charm of these colors adds character, making this combination ideal for denim or casual shorts.
If you feel confident in crafting your outfits and are inclined toward a more extravagant approach, experimenting with colored straps. It's worth noting that these belt colors don't necessarily have to match your shoe colors. However, tread carefully, as the line between an extravagant style and appearing uninformed about clothing and style is thin. Striking the right balance ensures you stand out for your fashion choices rather than for a lack of awareness.
Final Thoughts
The key to mastering belt color combinations lies in balance. Your belt should complement your outfit, contributing to a harmonious look. Whether you're dressing up for a formal event or opting for a casual look, the right combination of strap and buckle colors serves as the finishing touch for your style.
