Getting the right belt size isn’t just about comfort — it’s about making sure your outfit looks sharp and stays in place all day. A belt that fits well finishes your look with purpose. A belt that doesn’t? It throws everything off.

At Buckle, we’ve seen it all — belts that are too tight, too loose, hanging awkwardly, or cinched halfway to the first hole. That’s why we’re here to make belt sizing simple and foolproof.

What Belt Size Actually Means

Let’s clear something up: your belt size isn’t your pants size. Most people make that mistake. A belt is typically 2 inches (or one size) larger than your actual waist size in inches.

Example:
If your waist is 34", you’ll likely wear a size 36 belt.
If you’re between sizes, go up — you can always adjust a looser belt, but a tight one’s a no-go.

How to Measure Yourself for a Buckle Belt

Here’s the quick way to get it right — no guesswork:

1. Put on the pants you plan to wear with the belt.
   
   
2. Use a measuring tape and loop it through the belt loops where your belt will sit — usually your natural waist for formalwear, or a bit lower for casual pants.
   
   
3. Read the measurement in centimetres or inches.
   That’s your real belt size — not the number on your jeans.
   
   

Or Use the Belt You Already Have

If you’ve got a belt that fits well:

• Lay it flat on a table.
  
  
• Measure from the end of the buckle to the hole you use most often.
  
  
• That measurement is your belt size.
  
  

Men's vs Women's Belt Sizing

At Buckle, all our belts are measured to fit true to size, whether you’re choosing from our men’s leather belts, woven styles, or our women’s fashion belts. Use your waist or hip measurement (depending on how you wear it) and follow the same method above.

If you’re shopping for women’s belts to wear over dresses or coats, you may want to size up slightly for a looser cinch effect — or down if you want that high-waisted snatch.

Consider the Belt’s Purpose

• Formal leather belts should sit snug on your natural waist and hit the third hole — not the first, not the last.
  
  
• Casual belts can have more give. Woven and stretch styles offer flexibility, so there’s more room for preference.
  
  
• Statement pieces (like our embossed or wide styles) work best when they sit cleanly over the outfit, not stretched or sagging.
  
  

Quick Fit Tips

• You want around 5 holes total, and your buckle should sit on the middle hole when worn.
  
  
• Don’t rely on pant size. Brands vary, and sizing is inconsistent.
  
  
• If in doubt, size up — especially if your weight tends to fluctuate.
  
  
• And always check our belt sizing chart for exact measurements.
  
  

Final Thought

The right belt does more than hold things up — it sharpens your whole fit. Whether you’re dressing up, dressing down, or dressing for impact, Buckle’s belts are crafted for comfort, longevity, and timeless Australian-made quality. Now that you know your size, there’s only one thing left to do:

✔ Explore our full range of belts here and find your perfect fit.