Contrary to what most may think, the world of men’s accessories is massive. Suspenders and belts are, of course, an integral part of it. Both belts and suspenders are functional yet stylish accessories. However, they shouldn’t be worn at the same time. 

Some situations demand suspenders and some belts. How is one supposed to know which one is appropriate where? Now, suspenders and belts have the same purpose. They are supposed to hold up your pants. And, even if you could wear both at the same time, you shouldn’t. It isn’t the best look. 

Regardless of whether you are wearing suspenders vs. belts big and tall, you need to make sure that it matches the color and shade of your shoes. For instance, if you go with a navy blue belt or navy blue suspenders, you should wear navy blue shoes. Here is everything you need to know about suspenders vs belt!

Suspenders Vs Belts: Functionality and Built 

Most of us are familiar with what a belt is. A belt is a leather band that is fed through belt loops and fastened by a buckle. The fastening cinches the belt close to the waist and makes sure that your pants don’t fall off. 

There are three things you should know when wearing belts: First, the tension stays around your waist and this may be uncomfortable for people who have a heavier midriff and bottom. Second, since the waist continuously moves (during walking and other movement activities), a belt can fall down and may need readjustment. Third, some belts are built in a certain way that they reduce the gap of the trouser band. 

On the other hand, suspenders are elasticated straps that are attached to the trousers either with metal clasps or buttons. Suspenders are not worn around the waist but are worn over the shoulder. This transfers the pressure from around the waist to the shoulders. 

Again, there are three things that you need to keep in mind if you choose suspenders. First, as we mentioned, the tension is over the shoulders at a consistent level, therefore, it is slightly more comfortable. Second, since the shoulders stay at the same elevation, suspenders won’t slip or fall off. Third, if your trousers are too big on the waist, suspenders won’t reduce the gap, but they will keep your trousers off. 

Suspenders Vs Belts: When To Wear Which?

Belt is an accessory and you don’t need to wear one all the time. They are worn around the waist through belt loops. Ideally, your pants should fit perfectly well even without a belt. Instead, a belt can be worn in these situations:

• If you want your shirt to be tucked in.
• For professional events with a dress code or that demand formal business casual accessories.
• If you are wearing a jacket, a blazer, a trench coat, sport coat, etc.

Always try not to wear a belt with a suit, because it breaks up the look of the suit and comes off as unprofessional. If it’s a formal event, go for subtle belts. Always match the color of the leather with your shoes to create cohesion in your overall appearance. This styling hack doesn’t only make belts easier to style, but it also makes you look put together. 

Suspenders, also known as suit braces, can be worn on multiple occasions. Suspenders are not only functional and do the job of holding your pants, but they are also super stylish as they don’t break up your outfit. There are broadly two types of suspenders, clip-on ones (metal clasps) and button suspenders. Clip-on suspenders clip on the top with the help of metal clasps and button suspenders connect to the buttons inside of your pants. 

Even though clip-on suspenders are a super stylish look and add an edge to your outfit, button suspenders are the better choice. They give you a clean and put-together look, they are also more traditional, thus suited for formal events. Suspenders are connected right above the pelvis, and where the hip bones begin. 

Suspenders Vs Belts: Appearance

Appearance-wise, suspenders are stylish because of the following reasons:

• Suspenders maintain a clean visual line by not breaking up the outfit. They are generally more elegant than a conventional belt.
• Suspenders are less common than a belt, which means, you will stand out if you are wearing one.
• When you wear suspenders, people naturally acknowledge that you have put more thought and effort into your outfit. If you want to be perceived as stylish and trendy, suspenders is the answer.
• If you are wearing suspenders and decide to take your jacket off, your outfit won’t look plain and simple. Instead, there will be enough interest in your outfit.

Belts should be worn for the following reasons:

• If your outfit is casual and you want to keep things at a minimum, wear a belt. Belts allow you to add texture and interest to your outfit without being too over the top.
• Belts are more common, thus they are stylish without being flashy.

However, belts cut the visual in half and don’t provide a very seamless look. 

The Verdict

At the end of the day, suspenders vs belts have the same purpose. And, they do their job quite well. Suspenders are more stylish and add a dapper look to your outfit. But, if you want a clean functional aesthetic, there is nothing wrong with wearing a good belt. 

No matter what you do or wear, make sure the color of your belt or suspender matches the color of your shoes. That’s all!