Formal Belts

Measure a belt you already wear from the buckle pin to the hole you use. Or add 5-10cm to your waist measurement. For waist belts over dresses, measure the narrowest part of your waist rather than your hip. Most belts have multiple holes, so there's some flexibility.

Medium (2.5-3cm) works with jeans and dresses. Slim (1.5-2cm) for narrow belt loops and defining the waist over knitwear. Wide (4cm+) for more of a statement over high-waisted pieces and coats. One of each covers most styling needs.

Matching creates a polished, coordinated look, safe for formal settings. But it's not a strict rule anymore. What matters more is that both pieces feel like they belong to the same outfit in terms of quality and style register. A casual woven belt with formal shoes will always look off, regardless of colour matching.