Unless you’re a fashion model or some other kind of clothing aficionado, it’s tough to know exactly how many pairs of jeans are in your closet. But many people are still asking this question: Should you wear a belt with jeans?
The simple fact is that most people have multiple pairs because they’re versatile and comfortable. Jeans are a staple in everyone’s wardrobe, but there’s still a lot to learn about how to style them like a pro. Should you wear a belt with jeans? What’s the best way and type of belt? It’s time to take your jeans style to the next level and learn how to finish off all your outfits the right way.
Should You Wear a Belt With Jeans?
Although there are some accepted sartorial “rules” when it comes to wearing a belt, at the end of the day, fashion is about self-expression and what makes you feel good. So, don’t be afraid to break the rules!
If your pants have belt loops, then you need to wear a belt – it’s that simple, according to style experts. This is considered a hard rule when wearing suits and dress pants. Style experts will tell you that belts are necessary for those woefully naked loops.
Jeans are not intended to be dress pants, as they are mostly made with belt loops; however, when it comes to wearing a belt with jeans, it leans more towards fashion freedom. There aren’t many solidified rules in the world of fashion–but there is for jeans. As probably one of the most comfy clothing items ever created, there naturally had to made up a whole new set of guidelines for its own sake.
Jeans and Belt Loops
Though they were created over thousands of years ago, belts fell out of style in the early 1900s. Men would use suspenders to hold their pants up most often while belts were really only seen on uniforms. But after WWI, soldiers coming back from war liked the belts that came with their military uniform and decided to wear them even when not in uniform.
In 1922, Levi’s introduced the world’s first pair of jeans with belt loops. Prior to this innovation, belts were not commonly used with jeans. However, within 20 years, belt loops had become a standard feature on all jeans and belts had become a fashion essential.
Wearing a Belt with Jeans
Do jeans with belt loops always need to be worn with a belt? Let’s explore the options.
Fit
The design of jeans eliminates the need for a belt. They should fit your body well, and with time, will contour to your curves. If they bunch or gap around your waistline, it means they don’t fit properly and a belt won’t fix that.
Look
In certain instances, such as when you’re wearing a tank top with jeans, belts can bunch up the fabric around your waist and make your outfit appear ill-fitting. If you don’t want your belt to mar the look of your ensemble, it’s best to avoid wearing one altogether.
There will be times when not wearing a belt will make you look bad. For example, if you’re wearing a T-shirt tucked into your jeans, then not having a belt can make your outfit look incomplete.
To Belt or Not to Belt?
If you’re uncertain whether or not to wear a belt with your casual pants or blue jeans or even gray pants, consider this rule of thumb: if others can see your belt loops, then it’s probably time to buckle up. If your clothing covers your belt loops, chances are you don’t need a belt. But if you do opt to wear one, be aware that now you’ve got another dilemma on your hands.
Belting Your Jeans
With jeans being classified as casual wear, you have more Creative license when picking a belt to go with them. For instance, you could opt for a wide belt with an intricate belt buckle – something that wouldn’t normally be allowed in formal settings.
Classic
You can never go wrong with a black or brown leather belts if you’re going for a more traditional look. In fact, it might be a good idea to have both colours. These belts will match any shoes in your wardrobe and they can also be worn casually. If you want to show off your style, feel free to pick an ornate buckle for your skinny jeans.
Add a unique touch to your outfit by accessorizing with a navy blue belt. This accessory is not commonly seen but still gives off a traditional vibe.
Colorful
Don’t be afraid to experiment with your style! A belt or colorful belt is a perfect accessory to add a pop of color to any outfit. They can be made from many different materials, including but not limited to leather, plastic, and fabric. The oldest belts found by archaeologists were actually made from tree bark! Woven and braided dress belts have started trending in recent years because they offer more possibilities for creative designs.
Keep in mind that when you choose a belt with color, the hue should complement what you’re wearing. Unless your goal is to have the belt be a standout piece against a more low-key outfit, ensure that colors of the accessory coordinate with other hues present in your clothing.
Should You Wear a Belt With Jeans? – Final Thoughts
You don’t always have to wear jeans with a belt, but sometimes it will complement your outfit much better. Keep in mind that you should only be wearing jeans that fit well without a belt – otherwise, the addition of the belt is just serving to make up for ill-fitting suit pants.
If you’re styling with a belt, do so for aesthetics and not because your jeans are falling off. With that being said, try different types of casual belts or dress belt to add both color and texture to your look. Have fun with it!