Belts

Three at minimum: a black dress belt, a brown casual belt, and a tan or alternative tone for variety. Build from there with reversible options that double up colors in one belt.

Buy 2 inches longer than your pants waist size. So a 32-inch waist takes a 34-inch belt. Most belts are sized in 2-inch increments; check the listing for length and the position of the holes.

Look at the edge — full-grain leather shows a single continuous grain pattern through the cross-section, not a layered or split-leather edge. Top-grain looks similar but has been sanded. Genuine leather is the lowest grade and usually visible as a layered edge.

Not with care. Condition the leather every 6-12 months with leather balm to prevent drying. Avoid over-tightening (which stretches the leather), and let belts rest a day between wears so the leather can recover.

Standard belts have 5 holes spaced 1 inch apart, giving you a 4-inch range. For most men this is enough; if you need more range, look for cut-to-size belts or buckles with an interior adjustment.

Direct sourcing from the Italian tanneries that supply specialty leather brands, then finishing without specialty-retailer markups. Same Italian leather, fairly priced.