Belts and suspenders are two common wardrobe accessories that are not only helpful to have on hand, but are absolutely essential pieces needed in a man’s wardrobe. Both belts and suspenders have a similar job: making sure your pants don’t fall around your ankles; however, they’re more than just a practical accessory, and can totally make or break an outfit – especially when it comes to formal wear.

Read on for everything you need to know about suspenders and belts, including the key differences between the two, where to wear them, how to wear them, and more. 

What Are Belts?

Belts are common accessories that are worn around the waist in order to help support or hold up pants, jeans, trousers, and other bottoms, and are often made of leather or canvas. Leather belts can be a solid strip of material or can come in an intricate braided pattern, and are available in a wide variety of colors and sizes that’ll fit every occasion, style, and aesthetic. 

Canvas belts obviously fall on the casual side, and you should avoid wearing them to any smart casual, semi-formal, and of course, formal events. Canvas belts are also available in a wide variety of colors and sizes and are great for everyday casual wear. 

What Are Suspenders?

Suspenders, which are also referred to as braces, are pieces of fabric worn over the shoulders to hold up pants, such as chinos, trousers, dress pants, or even denim, and often form either an X or Y shape at the back. They also feature attachments at the end of each strap so you can clip the suspenders to the front and back of your pants, and essentially hold the pants up. Suspenders can be made from a variety of fabrics, including leather; however, they are typically made of rayon and feature an elastic webbing for stretch and comfort. 

What Are the Main Differences Between Belts and Suspenders?