The 18 Best Leather Belts of 2025, Approved by Style Experts

An assortment of leather belts on a neutral background. — Byrdie

Sometimes, the finer details of an outfit pull it together and give it that extra personal touch of style. A belt is one such example—whether worn to cinch the waist of an oversized coat or add more practical support to a pair of jeans, it’s an ultra-versatile essential to have in your wardrobe.

With so many leather belt options available, how do you know which ones are worth it? We’ve selected the best belts based on materials, size range, and style, with advice and recommendations from fashion expert Dana Bandi, stylist Ashlyn Greer, and fashion designer Paul Hardy.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Madewell Perfect Leather Belt at Amazon $48

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Best Budget:

CHAOREN Leather Belt with Gold Buckle at Amazon $20

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Best Wide:

Cuyana Wide Leather Belt at Cuyana $178

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Best Vintage-Inspired:

B-Low the Belt Kennedy Belt at Amazon $145

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Best Trendy:

Gucci Blondie Belt at Gucci.com

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Best Fit:

Poppy Barley The Accent Belt at Poppybarley.com

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Best Monogram:

Coach Sculpted C Buckle Reversible Belt at Amazon $150

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Best Vegan:

Gap Vegan Leather Belt at Gap.com

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Best Oval Buckle:

Abercrombie & Fitch Oval Buckle Belt at Abercrombie.com

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Best 1-Inch:

J.Crew Classic Belt at Jcrew.com

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Best Overall

Madewell Perfect Leather Belt

PHOTO: Amazon

$48 at Amazon $48 at Nordstrom $48 at Zappos

Materials: Leather | Colors: Pecan, True Black, True Black With Silver | Size Range: XXS—XXL

This genuine leather belt from Madewell gets rave reviews. It boasts a classic design that comes in three variations to truly compliment your look. Plus, you can even monogram it for an extra special touch.

PHOTO: Byrdie / Alexander Huang
PHOTO: Byrdie / Alexander Huang

Best Budget

CHAOREN Leather Belt with Gold Buckle

PHOTO: Amazon

$20 at Amazon

Materials: Leather | Colors: 12 Including Tan, Black, White | Size Range: 27–40 Inches

This genuine leather belt from Amazon certainly has the best price point around. The oval buckle is made using a zinc-alloy plating process to prevent rust, and it comes in three classic shades: black, tan, and burnt orange.

PHOTO: Byrdie / Alexander Huang
PHOTO: Byrdie / Alexander Huang

Best Wide

Cuyana Wide Leather Belt

PHOTO: Cuyana

$178 at Cuyana

Materials: Leather | Colors: Chestnut, Black | Size Range: XS—L/XL

A wide belt is a must in every closet, and this option from Cuyana just might be one of our favorites ever. "This is the perfect belt to wear with a dress to accentuate your waist,” says Bandi. “The minimal hardware allows it to be functional without necessarily drawing attention in a 'statement belt' way." Crafted from smooth Italian leather, this wide belt will last for years.

Best Vintage-Inspired

B-Low the Belt Kennedy Belt

PHOTO: Revolve

$145 at Amazon $145 at Revolve

Materials: Leather | Colors: Black/Gold, Bone/Gold, Camel/Gold | Size Range: XS—XL

With its classic black color with creamy beige on the reverse side, the Kennedy Belt gives off ‘90s throwback vibes with a modern twist. We love the contrast the gold hardware offers, though you can also opt for the bone or camel hues for a subtler impact.

Best Trendy

Gucci Blondie Belt

PHOTO: Gucci

View on Gucci.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: White, Black, Beige/Ebony GG Canvas | Size Range: Gucci 60-120

Known for its eye-catching, prominent buckle featuring the interlocking “G” logo, this Gucci belt has been seen everywhere over the past several years, and quickly became a favorite amongst celebrities and fashionistas. There have since been a lot of knockoffs of the now-ubiquitous belt, but the OG version is still a timeless investment piece.

Best Fit

Poppy Barley The Accent Belt

PHOTO: Poppy Barley

View on Poppybarley.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: Black/Gold, Biscotti/Gold, Cheetah Calf Hair/Gold, Black/Silver, Biscotti/Silver, Lion Suede | Size Range: 26–46 inches

The right belt can really complete an outfit, and this classic smooth leather belt with a D-shaped buckle is one Greer's favorites. Made in Mexico, you can ensure the right fit since the company offers exact-inch options before you purchase online. And since many people are particular about their preference between gold or silver, here, you can choose either hardware hue.

Best Monogram

Coach Sculpted C Buckle Reversible Belt

PHOTO: Coach

$150 at Amazon View on Coach.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: Brass/Tan/Rust | Size Range: OS

There’s something especially charming about a reversible belt, and this one from Coach is absolutely gorgeous. It can be worn on the monogram or rust side, and with gold-toned hardware, it’s a match made in heaven. "The understated hardware is the perfect combination with the monogrammed leather,” says Bandi. “Monogram can make a belt a little more flashy, so the hardware balances nicely here." It’s technically one size and can be cut with a pair of scissors to the owner’s liking.

Best Vegan

Gap Vegan Leather Belt

PHOTO: Gap

View on Gap.com

Materials: Polyurethane | Colors: True Black, Dark Brown, Metallic Gold, Red | Size Range: XS—XL

Looking for a vegan leather option? We suggest getting your hands on this Gap belt, which comes in three stunning colors that are all too easy to style. With a minimalist, round buckle in a gold hue, this completely vegan leather belt deserves a spot in your wardrobe lineup.

Best Oval Buckle

Abercrombie & Fitch Oval Buckle Belt

PHOTO: Abercrombie & Fitch

View on Abercrombie.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: Light Brown, Cream, Black | Size Range: XXS/XS—L/XL

If a square buckle isn’t your thing, this oval style from Abercrombie & Fitch makes a great alternative. The 100% genuine leather comes in three core colors to complement any outfit, and the width is just under 1-inch. "I see this belt as the perfect accessory for an A-line dress,” says Bandi.

Best 1-Inch

J.Crew Classic Belt

PHOTO: J.Crew

View on Jcrew.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: Black, Dark Nutmeg, Leopard, Espresso, Black Croc, Black With Heart Buckle | Size Range: XS—XL

This classic belt from J.Crew is crafted from Italian leather and makes for a staple piece. With various band and even gold-toned buckle options to choose from, there’s a style to fit every aesthetic. It’s elegant, traditional, and sure to become a favorite.

Best Western Style

Streets Ahead Violet Belt

PHOTO: Streets Ahead

View on Streetsaheadinc.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: Black | Size Range: XS—XL

If you’re looking for a little Western flair with a modern twist, this belt from Streets Ahead features a black Italian leather band with a vintage-inspired gold buckle. With engraved details and a metal tip, this Western-style belt gives off just the right amount of pizazz combined with a laid-back appeal, while still being fashion-forward.

Best Bow

Kate Spade Bow Belt

PHOTO: Nordstrom

$58 at Amazon $58 at Nordstrom

Materials: Leather, Polyurethane, PVC | Colors: Black, Parchment, Green, Strawberry Shake, Ponderosa Red | Size Range: XS—XL

Kate Spade is a master at the accessories game, and this sophisticated bow belt is no exception. It’s priced reasonably and comes in multiple shades, including Strawberry Shake. There’s a '50s appeal to this belt, which would look especially cute with A-line dresses.

Best for Short Dresses

Banana Republic Leather Corset Waist Belt

PHOTO: Banana Republic

View on Gap.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: Deep Chocolate Brown, Black | Size Range: XS—XXL

Corset waist belts are our go-to belt style to wear with dresses. Not only do they snatch you in all the right places and accentuate your waistline, but this specific belt from Banana Republic is also made from sturdy leather in a vintage design. We love the idea of wearing it as a fun layering piece with short dresses or over large sweaters.

Best High-End

Saint Laurent Cassandre Belt

PHOTO: Saint Laurent

View on Ysl.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: Black (With Different Buckle Colors Available) | Size Range: 26—42 Inches

YSL has been dominating in the accessories department, whether it’s purses, handbags, or wallets—and now belts. This slim, stylish belt is made with calfskin leather and silver-toned hardware that can easily be looped through dressy trousers or stretchy jeans. And while it still subtly shows off the brand’s logo, we think it nails the quiet luxury aesthetic perfectly.

Best Glittery

Streets Ahead Aurelle Belt

PHOTO: Streets Ahead

$122 at Revolve

Materials: Leather | Colors: Gold | Size Range: XS—XL

If we could wear a glittery belt every single day, we’d without a doubt choose this one from Streets Ahead. The band itself is made from genuine leather and features gold-toned hardware which looks amazing paired with all of the glittery details. It gives off an ultra-cool vibe and is the best choice for a night out on the town.

Best for Long Dresses

Free People Leather Obi Belt

PHOTO: Free People

$78 at Freepeople.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: 8 Including Cream, Midnight, Black Shimmer | Size Range: OS

Recommended by Greer, this luxe wrap belt has a slight sheen and cinches at the natural waistline, making it a great choice for long, flowy dresses. You could also wear it to add a pop of color to a neutral or black wool coat. But we’re here for the color options, which range from neon green “Palm Leaf Python” to supple cognac and metallic rose.

Best Statement

Khaite The Lucca Belt

PHOTO: Khaite

$720 at Nordstrom View on Khaite.com View on Mytheresa.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: Ivory With Gold, Black Leather With Gold, Black Leather With Silver, Mud Suede with Gold | Size Range: 27.6—35.5 Inches

This slim belt from Khaite comes in four different finishes and choices of hardware so you can choose the perfect one for your wardrobe. The elongated trapezoidal buckle also feels super contemporary. “I see this paired with a dress or with jeans and a crop top," says Bandi.

Best Rectangle Buckle

AYR The Essential Belt

PHOTO: AYR

View on Ayr.com

Materials: Leather | Colors: Cognac, Black | Size Range: 24—34 Inches

Belts come in all shapes and sizes, but we truly don’t think you can ever go wrong with a classic rectangular buckle, like this one from AYR. Available in both cognac and black, paired with the gold hardware, it gives off an almost vintage feel. Our favorite part about this belt though has to be the fact that there are no belt holes. How? It’s a sliding belt, meaning you can tailor it to your perfect fit with every wear without having to worry about it stretching out over time.

What to Look for in a Leather Belt

Material: Leather is known for its incredible durability and longevity. If you go for a full-grain leather belt, the patina will age over time (resulting in a beautiful vintage effect). Keep the leather conditioned and hang the belt straight in the closet (rather than curling it up) so it doesn’t get creases. Vegan leather (polyurethane) won’t last as long, but it’s an animal-free option and generally less expensive.
Style: When it comes to the style of leather belts, there are two that we tend to turn to—skinny and wide. “Given the size of a wide leather belt, I use these more as statement pieces, while skinny belts can have a lot more use,” says Bandi. “Skinny belts may be worn with a pant to add texture and a hint of hardware or can be worn around the waist to accentuate your figure. The main thing to consider is how much of a statement you’re trying to make with your belt and make the choice from there.”
Color: While you can obviously choose any color belt, our experts say that black or brown is the way to go if you only want to invest in one belt. “It’s best to invest in either a brown or black belt depending on the color of the majority of your leather shoes,” says Bandi. “Aside from sneakers, I like to match the color of my belt to the color of my shoes, and because most shoes are black, investing in a black belt is most economical.”

FAQ

How do I know my belt size?

“A belt size can vary based on where you wear it on your body (i.e., lower waist versus natural waist) or if you plan to layer it over pieces that add to the circumference of your natural size,” says Hardy. “The best move is to purchase a belt based on the largest circumference that will be worn, but has enough holes or adjustment to reduce it to the smallest size.”
After you decide how you want to wear your belt, grab some measuring tape! “For belt sizing, the general rule of thumb is adding 2 inches to your waist size,” says Greer. “If you're looking for a belt to wear higher or lower than your natural waist, grab a measuring tape and choose the closest belt size by the inch.”
How can I use a belt to style my outfit?

The ways to style an outfit with belts are seemingly limitless, and we tapped into our experts for some foolproof ideas. “You can use leather for two main reasons: to break up or elevate an outfit. For example, if you’re wearing leather boots, you can wear a belt that’s the same color to have continuity in the outfit," says Bandi. "You can also wear leather belts to add another texture to the outfit.”
Hardy, on the other hand, says that belts are a great way to play around with proportions, stating, “Apart from wearing a belt in its traditional format (through belt loops), consider styling an outfit by layering a belt over a blazer, a dress, or a sweater,” he says. “A belt is also a way to fashion hack proportions, like turning a maxi dress into a midi (especially for people with petite frames).”

Other Items We Love

Madewell The ’90s Straight Jean

$128 at Amazon $128 at Nordstrom $128 at Madewell.com

Prada Eyewear Oval Gold-tone Sunglasses

Prada Eyewear Oval-frame acetate and gold-tone sunglasses

View on Net-a-Porter

Skims Stretch Cotton T-shirt

$38 at Nordstrom View on Lyst.com

Quince Distressed Denim Shirt

View on Quince.com

Meet Our Experts

Team Byrdie spoke to the following experts for their insights.

Dana Bandi is a fashion expert and founder of her eponymous brand.
Ashlyn Greer is a stylist and co-founder of Fashivly, a personal styling brand.
Paul Hardy is a fashion designer of his eponymous luxury brand.

Why Trust Byrdie

Taylor Augustin Littlejohn is a freelance beauty and fashion writer. With a closet full of accessories, she particularly loves leather belts and finding fun and unique ways to style them.

Catherine Hufton is a London-based lifestyle journalist and has been a contributing writer and editor for Byrdie since 2022. Her freelance career has given her the opportunity to work for some of the world’s biggest beauty brands and women’s titles and test hundreds of makeup and skincare products in the process. She digs deep into all things fashion and beauty to find the very best shopping must-haves using her own knowledge, expert advice, and detailed insights from Byrdie’s NYC testing lab.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough leather belts from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.