Dear Ask Debonair,
I have seen many times models/celebrities in magazines and on television wearing suits without a belt. I always thought it was necessary to wear a belt when wearing a suit. What is the verdict on this issue?
If the suit fits well enough, that is – on the waist and through the legs – a belt may not be necessary at all. For shorter men, in fact, wearing a belt will actually make you look shorter (the more pared down the taller). Furthermore, for a cooler look, one might be inclined to ditch the tie as well.
I think that it is an absolute most to wear a belt when wearing a suit
If your suit trousers have belt loops, then ‘going beltless’ is a deliberate statement that projects a more casual look that probably looks best without a tie.
More traditional business suits may be designed never to be worn with a belt – instead you use either braces or the waist fasteners at the side.
To wear a belt with a suit is a non-negotiable. Unless you are wearing suspenders, then NO belt. To be perfectly honest, I think a belt is necessary with almost every look.
If it has belt loops, then a belt should be worn with it. If you don’t want to wear a belt with it, then have the belt loops removed. Belt loops without a belt detracts from the overall look – I always feel that something is missing. Clothing Tall mentioned trousers with waist fasteners; that’s a great look. It’s very clean and I prefer that look.
For me, wearing suit trousers without a belt is quite the same as wearing shoes without socks – so a must-be-accessory!