The Origin and Early Forms of Belts

Belts originated as practical items designed by ancient people to secure clothing. In early Chinese clothing, buttons were often not used; instead, several small straps were sewn onto the front of the garment for tying. These small straps were called "jin." To further secure the clothing and prevent it from coming undone, a larger belt was tied around the waist, which was the prototype of the belt. Although this type of belt shares the same name as the belts used today to fasten trousers and skirts, its function is not entirely the same.