Guide

How to find your perfect belt size

Laura Scholz
13.7.2022
Translation: Julia Graham

Now and again, you have to tighten your proverbial belt. To make sure you’ve got space to do that, I’ll l tell you how to measure for things like belt size.

It’s harder to shop for some things than others. Jeans, for example – actually trousers in general – blazers, and swimwear. And, of course, belts. Strangely enough, they’re often way too long, or so tight you end up looking around desperately for punch pliers to add another hole into the leather just before it’s tight. It could actually be so much easier. Once you’ve found the perfect belt size, issues of support and look around the hip will be a thing of the past. But what actually is «the perfect belt size»?

This is the perfect belt size for you

The ideal belt has a number of holes. Obviously, the range and density of the holes mean you can vary how tight the belt is. But did you know that it’s not a coincidence that 99% of the time, belts have exactly five holes? It’s ideal when the belt sits above the hip bone and fastens in the middle. This makes it easy to hide the loose end away in the loop (of the belt itself or your trousers) – all the while giving you the leeway to tighten or loosen the belt as required. Fortunately, it doesn’t matter if this is for financial or culinary reasons.

Well, the reference point on the middle hole is already half the battle for a fit. But what about exact dimensions and sizes? First of all, if you don’t have a measuring tape, string and a double metre stick will also do in a pinch. Secondly, it’s dead easy.

Version 1

Slip into well-fitting trousers with a waistband that sits at a comfortable «belt height» and pull the measuring tape or string through the loops like a belt. Read the measurement and round it up or down to the nearest number ending 0 or 5. For instance, if you measure 89 cm, your belt size is – drum roll, please – 90. In most cases, you can find this number stamped on the inside of the leather together with the letter W (waist).

Version 2

If you’re lucky enough to already have a well-fitting belt, but one that doesn’t give an indication of size, you can still use it as a reference. Place the tape measure or string on the outermost edge of the buckle and measure the distance to the aforementioned middle hole. Voilà, now you finally know which belt size you need to look for from now on.

Header image: Alena Darmel via Pexels

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