I am a 34 inch waist and typically buy a 36 inch belt. For my Coach belt or Dockers belt, this is the right size. I originally bought a 36 for this Perry Ellis belt, but it was WAY too big. I returned it, no problem, and got the 34. Even it runs a little large! So I would tell you to definitely buy at least 2 inches shorter than your usual belt. With my 34, there are still about 4 "extra" inches of belt beyond the belt loop. But definitely a good quality leather feel to the belt.