So, as you’re well aware by now, this quarantine life is getting interesting and probably won’t be going away any time soon. I do want to say that I hope you’re all staying healthy and taking the quarantine seriously to help prevent the spread of this thing. I’ll be making a video talking about what’s going on with me and some of the small changes with my channel in the next few days, so be on the lookout for that video in the next day or so. But from the recent poll I took on my Instagram, where I asked what videos you wanted to see from me, it was pretty much split down the middle between my regular style content and other creative lifestyle topics. So I will be getting a little more creative in the coming weeks but I also want to keep talking about the things that brought you here in the first place.
Okay, matching and mixing up different belts with different colors and materials can be a little confusing because it’s one of those small details that if you get it wrong, it stands out. So in this video, I’d like to address most of the general guidelines to follow when it comes to choosing your belt.
Your belt should match your shoes.
First up, and the most common when wearing dress shoes is to select a color belt color that matches your shoe color. Also, select a similar belt material to the shoes you’re wearing. Now as for the color, it doesn’t have to be a perfect exact match, but it should be close. For example, if you’re wearing black oxfords, you shouldn’t go with a brown belt, and vice versa. So this actually makes it very simple. If you’re wearing black dress shoes, always go with a black belt.
Match the finishes.
Next, again with dress shoes, we’ll talk casual shoes in a minute, but also match the material and the finish as close as you can. For example, the black shoes I show in the video have a medium shine, so go with a belt with a similar finish. Same thing with the dark brown shoes. Now, it isn’t an exact match, but it’s pretty darn close and that’s the important thing. As long as it’s close, you’re good. Because your belt and shoes are separated by (at least in my case), 36 inches, people that see you, their brain just connects the dots and they just see brown and brown. It’s only when there’s a color difference that when the eyes see it, the brain rejects it because there’s just something off about it.
Now if you didn’t know already, 98% of the belts I have in my closet are from today’s sponsor, Anson Belt. You’ve heard me talk about Anson Belt before because I’m personally a huge fan and they’ve been the go-to belt in my closet for about the last three years. This is a family owned business and I’ve met the owner David several times now. He’s a great guy and I’m not sure if they’re still doing it or not, but David was running a free belt Friday giveaway on their Instagram. Like I said, it’s a great company and I’m happy to help support them.
Micro-adjustment belts are better.
What makes them so cool, is the micro-adjustments on the back. I don’t know about you, but for me the hole placements with traditional belts never seem to line up with where I want them to be. It’s either too loose or too tight. Also, depending on any slight weight fluctuations that might occur, I want something that I can adjust for a more custom fit. Anson uses a track on the backside of the belt that gives you adjustments every ¼ inch.
Not only that, but all the belts come in a size 50” waist, so as long as you’re a 50” waist or smaller, you just cut the end off to fit your waist size. Then, attach the buckle you choose. That’s the other beautiful thing is you can select the straps you want and the buckles you want and mix and match between your selections. They have canvas, leather, nylon, cloth and vegan strap options you can choose from, and also two different width options as well. You’ve gotta check ‘em out.
Hit this link for Anson Belt to get the box set of 3 straps and 2 buckles, or 3 buckles and 2 straps; that’s 6 belt combos for under $100. Or you can buy just one belt combo of your choice. You’re absolutely gonna love these belts!
Have multiple shades of brown.
Okay, moving on to more casual shoes, let’s talk about boots for a second. Most of my boots are some shade of brown. Now, I’ve got a few other colors like black, olive and blue, but the majority are brown. Having a few different shades of brown in your belt arsenal will definitely help you out here when it comes to pairing up your belt with your boots.
Don’t be afraid of color.
Next, let’s talk about sneakers and more casual combinations, especially with Spring and Summer coming up. I will say, do not be afraid of thinking a little outside the box here, and I encourage you guys to incorporate a little color. For example, I wear white sneakers and blue sneakers with jeans a lot, it’s kind of my go-to. It’s very easy to go with a casual blue & white belt, or a blue and red belt, or even a solid gray, solid blue, or even something like a red & green option. Spring and summer months are appropriate times to add more color to your wardrobe. So going with a subtle bit of color with your belt can make a difference in the way you look and feel, as opposed to wearing the same old brown belt everywhere.
Again guys, although it is important in more formal settings to get this right, just don’t worry so much about finding an exact match, especially when going business casual or casual. I know some shoe companies make a perfectly matching belt, and while that can look cool, I almost think (at least me personally) sometimes it’s a little too perfect. Just my opinion.
Guys, don’t forget to hit this link to score a great deal on my favorite brand of belts. And also, gentlemen, if you’re a subscriber to my YouTube channel, I’ll see you in a few days for a brand new video. But until then, I want you to stay safe, and I’ll see you soon.
