It’s common knowledge that it’s a good idea to match your belt to your shoes. Taken literally, this maxim produces a belt wardrobe of black and brown calfskin — maybe some brown suede — and no harm done. For those comfortable with a bit more eccentricity, however, it’s an opportunity to show more of one’s personality.
The Duke of Windsor recognized how perfectly an alligator belt added a glossy soupçon of cosmopolitan chic to the rustic suiting ensembles he favored. It’s a comfortably elegant look that can easily be dressed up with a more formal suits or dressed down with bluejeans; the unique, stand-alone textures of exotic leathers actually make them surprisingly versatile.
Handmade in the USA, our alligator-skin custom belts are available in a variety of colors beyond the classic black and brown – Alan is partial to the emerald green and raspberry, though navy and burgundy may be an easier step into that territory. Those who find alligator a bit aggressive might prefer the matte finish and sporty bumps (actually feather follicles) of ostrich, and for even simpler tastes we offer velvety suede and top-quality calfskin.
The cynosure of any belt is of course its buckle. We’ve sourced ours from the same Italian firm outside Florence that’s produced hardware for Hermes, Vuitton, and Gucci. Alan describes each of our three models — O-rings, horse-bit, or classic square prong — as slightly “pushed” up the style spectrum a notch or two, designed to be noticed. A small amount of white gold in their alloy makes for a polished luster and a satisfying heft.