Remember Wooster and the inimitable Jeeves. Their arguments mostly centred around hats, moustaches, spats but never on belts. If Wooster was born in the modern day world Jeeves would certainly have an opinion on belts and choice of belts. After all wearing a belt is the mark of a gentleman. Belts are not mere accessories . A men’s wardrobe is incomplete without a belt. Books on grooming and etiquette state that a gentleman must wear a belt. A belt differentiates the classy dresser from the rest of the crowd. Leather belts are essential when wearing formal clothes. They go perfectly well with leather shoes.

Investing in a genuine leather belt always pays in the long run as it is sure to last for at least five to ten years if taken care of properly. Since a belt is made from hide it has a tendency to develop cracks due to exposure to the elements. The trick to maintaining a belt is to keep its coat soft. This can easily be done by rubbing Vaseline or petroleum jelly through the length of the belt. Apply leather conditioner onto both sides of the belt when you first purchase it. Remove the belt from your pant after each wear. Never let it stay on in the pant if it is not being used. Fold a belt. Clean off any dirt or debris with a brush.

If choosing gifts for a man belts and ties are the first items that spring to mind. Rule of thumb: always buy a belt that is two inches bigger than the waistline or pant size. If buying a formal belt go for one that is black or brown since these shades match all colors of trousers. For a formal look buy a belt with an elegant buckle. Garish buckles and broad belts are good for a casual look but not for office wear. Most corporate offices in any case would have a thing or two to say if guys came strutting in like John Wayne and his holster.

When buying a belt try all the available options to get the right fit. Buying a belt that matches a majority of your wardrobe is a good idea. Leather belts are still the best for formal wear. Casual clothes team up well with alligator skin belts, thin belts, colorful and flashy cotton belts, and camouflage or military-style belts. But before you spend a lot of money on these decide if it will be a one-time buy or you actually plan to wear it. After all a belt is an investment and at times people spend more on a genuine leather belt than they would on a pair of shoes.