The origin of belts and belt buckles dates to the Bronze Age, the period between 3300 B.C. and 1200 B.C.
Always considered a fashionable choice for attire, it was rare for women’s fashion to incorporate the belt buckle until the Middle Ages, when it began to gain popularity. During the late second and third centuries B.C., the Chinese wore long Tunics with belt buckles adorning the waist. These intricately decorated belts were a status symbol. Common among Germanic invaders, animal hides and skins integrated into their belt buckle motifs and themes. This was often a sign that an animal was involved in an act of mortal combat.
A more common type of belt among aristocracy was a buckle decorated with delicate filigree. A buckle with this degree of intricacy adorned Childeric I, King of Franks, who passed away in 481-482 A.D.
The British Museum in London displays several gold belt buckles that date to the seventh century. These buckles have rounded patterns that intertwine with cutaway tongues.
In the 1920s, it became more fashionable for men to wear their trousers at their natural waistlines. Before this time, belt buckles served as merely a decorative, fashion statement. However, military men used them regularly long before then.
Today belt buckles are part of everyday décor and fashion. Often used for creative, self-expression, many different types of belt buckles are common. Whether these buckles reflect simplicity, elegance or artistic expression, belt buckles are as customizable as a piece of jewelry.
Historic belt buckles, including those from significant wars such as the Revolutionary War or Civil War, are of great interest to collectors. Highly sought after and prized, these historic belts often fetch quite a stunning price at auction.
Custom made belt buckles are a popular choice in today’s society. Seen as an excellent method of self-expression and individualism, Inola Castings helps work with people to create their artistic visions. Custom belt buckles include: sporting events such as the Olympics; cowboy belt buckles; sporting teams, including collegiate and professional; Greek fraternities symbols; clubs; musicians and bands; and even displaying cultural heritage with pride, from the fighting Irish emblem, flags from other nations, or even the Lone Star flag for adventurous Texans.
While often time’s belt buckles are seen as artistic expressions, they are also customary in the business world, where it is a sign of professionalism and appropriate attire. It serves as a function for maintaining a certain acceptable appearance; including helping pants and skirts stay in place and maintain an appropriate length, lending an air of sophistication.
While the style of belt buckles may have evolved somewhat over the years, the basic principles are still the same. Belt buckles have evolved to include more than just aristocracy; they are still fashionable and often a sign of self-expression.