Summary: Article chronicles the evolution of belts from the Stone Age to the 21^st century and more… Belts are defined as being a flexible strap made of leather or heavy clothing to be worn around the waist. When one chronicles the history of men and female clothing, belts have succeeded in evolving from their original functionality to now being a sought after fashion accessory. In fact compared to others pieces of clothing, the belt has been extremely functional and both men and women have over the years learned to be extremely innovative with its uses. Let’s trace back to the very beginning and examine how things started in the first place. Belts during the Bronze Age The primary needs of cavemen during the early years were food, water and shelter. Belts made of softened tree bark were used by them to provide protection against the natural elements. The belts were creatively designed with pockets so as to keep hunting tools and weapons within easy reach. Tribesmen used belts to protect their private region from the elements and over a period of time came up with innovatively designed belts for public fascination. Romans, Gladiators and Belts The aristocratic romans wore belts as a fashion accessory to suit their outfits. Roman Emperor’s wore a golden piece of fabric around their waist to hold their royal ‘soga’ and ‘sash’ to complete their look. This is sharp contrast to the heavy leather belts wore by Gladiators of the coliseum. Their belts allowed them to keep their weapons and engage in fistful fights to entertain crowds. Their belts included the ‘cingulum’ a specially crafted belt worn around the waist that carried their daggers. Their attire also included a ‘balteus’ which is a thin leather belt placed over the shoulder for holding smaller swords. Soldiers, policemen and Belts Belts were part of the official attire of soldiers and policemen. Up till the 1920’s tight belts were used for soldiers to make their shoulders and chest more prominent giving them a more muscular and manly appearance. Today’s policemen and women also have special leather belts equipped with holsters for their radio and guns. 21^st century Belts, Buckles the evolving style statement. Modern day belts are a more necessary fashion and formal accessory apart from it functionality. Men’s formal wear is considered incomplete if he doesn’t have a belt that matches the color of his shoes. Another important fashion element has been the buckles used in belts. Designers like Lee, Gucci, have innovatively and smartly come up with signature buckles which by themselves have a fashion authority amongst peer folks. Dyed Leather belts of different color, sizes and material are a good way of making a subtle but assertive style statement to remember one’s personality. Hope this article has relevantly educated you on a brief glimpse of how the humble belt has evolved through generations. It’s among the few accessories that have successfully merged both functionality and fashion for the user. Cheers.