Belt Size Guide for Men & Women

Finding the right belt size is simple with our expert guide. Whether shopping for men’s leather belts, women’s fashion belts, or statement styles like corset belts, a perfect fit means comfort and style that lasts. Use our charts and measuring tips to buy belts online with confidence.

How Are Belts Measured?

• Belts are measured from where the strap meets the buckle to the middle hole.
• The measurement does not include the entire belt length.
• Most belts have 5 holes for adjustment.

These rules apply whether you're choosing a casual jeans belt, a dress belt, or a stylish waist belt.

Note on Belt Sizing for Different Styles
The belt sizing rules above apply to standard belts with traditional bar buckles. For unique designs like knot leather belts, wide waist belts, or corset styles, please refer to the individual product descriptions, as sizing may vary by design and brand.

📏 Important Tip:
Do not measure a belt from end to end — this will not give you an accurate size. Always measure from the buckle to your most-used hole for the correct fit.

How to Measure Belt Size Correctly

Method 1: Measure an Existing Belt

Lay your belt flat and measure from the buckle prong to the hole you use most often. This measurement is your belt size in inches or centimeters.

Method 2: Measure Your Waist or Hips

Wrap a flexible tape measure around where you’ll wear the belt (waist, hips, or over clothes for dresses). Add 1–2 inches for comfort. Round up to the nearest even number.

Method 3: Pant Size Method

Use this easy formula:

Your pant size + 2 inches = Belt size

Example: Pant Size 34″ → Belt Size 36″

For low-rise jeans or hip belts, consider adding 3–4 inches instead.

Belt Size Charts for Men & Women

Women's Belt Sizes: Comprehensive Fitting Guide

Women's belt sizing varies more than men's due to different wearing positions and styles. Always measure where you'll actually wear the belt for the most accurate fit.

Women's Belt Size Chart

Women's Belt Styling & Sizing:

• High-waist belts: Measure at narrowest part of natural waistline
• Hip belts: Measure over clothing where belt will sit on hips
• Dress belts: Allow extra room for different fabric thicknesses
• Wide belts: May require going up one size for comfort

Explore our women's leather belt collection featuring styles from slim 15mm to statement 40mm widths.

Men's Belt Sizes: Complete Sizing Chart & Tips

Men's belts typically follow the standard +2 inch rule from pant size. Measure from the buckle end to the hole you use most often, or simply add 2 inches to your trouser size.

Men's Belt Size Chart

Men's Belt Sizing Tips:

• Business belts: Stick to standard +2 inch rule for professional appearance
• Casual belts: Consider +3 inches if wearing over heavy clothing
• Work belts: Account for tool belts or equipment that adds bulk
• Dress belts: Should sit comfortably at natural waistline

Shop our premium men's leather belt collection with sizes from 32" to 56" available.

Belt Sizing by Style: Different Types, Different Rules

Leather Belt Sizing

Genuine leather belts follow standard sizing rules perfectly. Add 2 inches to waist measurement for men's leather belts and women's leather belts. Quality leather maintains consistent sizing across all our Australian-made collections.

Elastic Belt Sizing

Elastic belts offer natural stretch and flexibility. Choose your actual waist measurement as these belts stretch 2-4 inches comfortably. Perfect for fluctuating waist sizes or extended comfort wear.

Shop Men’s elastic stretch belts and Women’s Elastic Stretch Belt Australia

Reversible Belt Sizing

Reversible belts use standard leather belt sizing. The +2 inch rule applies regardless of which side you're wearing. Great value offering two belt colors in one purchase.

Purchase Men’s Reversible Belts and Women's reversible leather

Wide Belt Sizing

Wide belts (2+ inches) may require going up one size for comfort, especially when worn over dresses or flowing clothing. The additional width can feel restrictive if sized too tightly.

Plus Size Belt Considerations

Plus size belts should prioritize comfort and adjustability. Always round up when between sizes, and consider belts with extended hole spacing for maximum versatility. We offer sizes up to 56" in multiple styles.

Browse our Men's Plus Size Leather Belts and Women Plus Size Leather Belts Collection

Common Belt Sizing Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Don't Do This:

• Measuring end-to-end instead of buckle to middle hole
• Using pants size exactly without adding 2 inches
• Ignoring where you'll wear the belt (waist vs. hips)
• Ordering same size for all belt styles without considering width differences
• Sizing down for a "snug fit" - belts should be comfortable

✅ Do This Instead:

• Measure existing belts properly from buckle to most-used hole
• Add 2 inches to actual waist measurement for perfect fit
• Consider clothing thickness when measuring over garments
• Size up when between sizes for comfort and adjustability
• Account for belt style differences (wide vs. narrow, elastic vs. leather)

FAQs – Common Belt Sizing Questions Answered

How do I know my belt size?

Measure your existing belt or wrap a tape measure around your waist or hips. Add 1–2 inches for a comfortable fit.

How do I know my belt size without measuring?

Use the pant size method: your pant size + 2 inches = belt size. For example, size 34 pants = size 36 belt. This quick formula works for 90% of standard belt purchases, though measuring is always more accurate.

What size belt should I buy for jeans?

Add 2 inches to your usual pant size for standard jeans belts. For low-rise jeans, add 3–4 inches.

Should I size up or down for a belt?

Always size up if between sizes to ensure comfort and adjustability.

What's the difference between belt size and waist size?

Belt size is typically 2 inches larger than your actual waist measurement. For example, a 32" waist requires a 34" belt. This accounts for the belt wrapping around your body plus clothing thickness while allowing proper hole placement for adjustability.

How do you measure a belt without a measuring tape?

Use a piece of string around your waist, then measure the string length with a ruler or yardstick.

Should I size up or down if I'm between belt sizes?

Always size up when between belt sizes. A slightly larger belt can be tightened using inner holes, but a too-small belt cannot be lengthened. This is especially important for plus size belts where comfort is crucial for all-day wear.

Do men's and women's belt sizes differ?

Belt sizing measurements are the same for men and women, but wearing positions differ. Men typically wear belts at their natural waist with pants, while women may wear them higher at the waistline or lower at the hips. Always measure where you'll actually wear the belt for accurate sizing.

How to size a belt for a woman wearing dresses?

Measure around the narrowest part of your waist. Add 1–2 inches for comfort if using a corset or wrap belt.

What size belt for a 30 waist?

When selecting your belt size, the quickest way is to add 2 inches to your pant size. For instance - we advise a size 32 belt if you wear size 30 pants, a 46 inch belt would fit a size 44 waist, a size 50 belt for a 48 waist etc. You can also use measuring tape to measure where you will wear your belt; that number is your belt size. Once the buckle is tightened, there should always be 10-20cm extra length for overlapping and/or tucking under your belt loops.

What size belt should I buy for a 32 waist?

If your waist measures 32 inches, you'll generally want to look for a belt size that is a few inches longer. Belt sizes are usually measured from the end of the buckle to the middle hole of the belt. A belt size of 34 to 36 inches would likely be a good fit for a 32-inch waist.

What size belt should I buy for a 34 waist?

For a 34-inch waist, you'll generally want a belt that is a few inches longer. A belt size of 36 to 38 inches would likely be suitable. As mentioned earlier, remember that it's always best to consult the sizing information provided by the brand you're interested in to ensure the best fit.

What size is an 80 cm belt?

An 80 cm belt equals approximately 31-32 inches. This size typically fits a 28-30 inch waist comfortably. When converting between metric and imperial measurements, remember that belt sizes may vary slightly between brands, so consult specific sizing charts when available.

How does belt sizing work for different body shapes?

Belt sizing remains consistent regardless of body shape, but placement may vary. Apple shapes may prefer hip placement requiring +3-4 inches, while pear shapes often wear belts at the natural waist with standard +2 inch sizing. Focus on where you'll wear the belt rather than overall body shape.

Size Exchange & Guarantee

Still unsure? 

Our Australian customer service team provides personalized sizing advice to ensure your perfect fit.

Contact our sizing experts:

• Email: info@beltnbags.com.au
• Phone: 0295 640 588
• Live Chat: Available during business hours

We're committed to helping you find the perfect belt size with confidence.

Belt N Bags is proud to offer Australian-designed quality with fast delivery across Sydney and nationwide. Shop online today and refresh your wardrobe with belts built to last.

Free shipping on orders over $79 | Easy returns & exchanges | Australian customer service