Q: I was wondering...is there a correct direction to start a belt around your waist? To the left..or to the right?
And, is it different for men/little boys?
A: What a great question! It was fun researching as well, since it's one of those questions where you're pretty sure you know the answer and then you think... wait, do I really? Have I ever really thought about it? You can't rely on simply looking at a picture in a magazine, because photos can be flipped depending on how they want the layout to look. So here's the scoop on how that belt should wrap.
- There is no difference for men vs boy belts. There is a difference for women, we belt the opposite of the men.
- Standard operating procedure - men hold the buckle in the left hand when putting on the belt. Women hold the buckle in the right hand.
- There is probably no other organization that is a bigger stickler for rules and regulations than the Armed Forces and their take on it is: the tipped end should point to the left for men, to the right for women.
- Left-handed folks often reverse this rule UNLESS there is horizontal printing on the belt that would end up being upside down.
An interesting little anecdote I found: apparently there is an old sailor tradition of removing one's belt and reversing it as you cross the equator. Something to do with putting your belt on in the direction of the earth's rotation. I couldn't find all the details about it, since there is many a tradition associated with sailors crossing the equator. Anybody out there know for sure?
I hope this was useful. Before we end, a few other belt tips.
I hope this was useful. Before we end, a few other belt tips.
- You should buy belts that fit perfectly on the second or third hole, not the tightest hole! You'll have way too much tail sticking out after buckling it.
- Women have a lot more leeway where fashion is concerned but men's belts should ALWAYS match their shoes.
- If it's starting to get a little worn, you can polish a leather belt just like you would leather shoes. Just make sure it's nice and dry before putting it on or you'll stain your clothes.
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