5 products
One of those small details that makes a disproportionate difference. Classic leather in brown and black, braided and woven, reversible, casual fabric. We've got belts from M&S, ASOS, and quality leather goods brands, plus preloved designer belts where full-grain leather develops character with age. A quality belt genuinely lasts for years, it's one of the smartest small investments in a wardrobe.
5 products
Minimum two: black leather for formal, brown leather for everyday. A third in tan or cognac bridges the gap. Match belt colour to shoe colour, it's the traditional rule and it works. Two belts, done properly, cover 95% of situations.
Full-grain leather (not "genuine" leather, which is actually a lower grade). Even, tight stitching. Substantial hardware that operates smoothly. A good leather belt develops a patina with age, it looks better over time, not worse. This is one category where preloved can actually be an upgrade.
5-7cm longer than your trouser waist size. So 32-inch waist, 34-inch belt. The tail should reach the first loop past the buckle. You should be using the middle hole, if you're on the first or last, the size is wrong.