As Project Runway’s co-host and one of fashion’s most lovable men, Tim Gunn, puts it: “Belts are a fantastic way to emphasize one’s silhouette and take any outfit from frumpy to fabulous!” For all you leather lovers out there, now is your chance to do just this, with Canada’s very own, Brave Beltworks designed by Scott Irvine, founder of Brave Leather Inc. From venders off the streets to department stores like Neiman Marcus, Irvine’s leather accessories have become a worldwide fashion phenomenon, with about 1,400 retail customers in Canada, United States and Japan. Being a unique, ethically Canadian-operated company, Brave ensures all of its leather accessories are handmade in Canada, with every design made start to finish, right here in Toronto. Though specializing in leather belts, Brave also offers leather cuffs, clutches, and their latest addition of dog collars. Not only have these unique designs made their way into some of Fashion’s leading magazines such as Elle Canada, People and Flare, but many of Hollywood’s hottest celebs have also been photographed wearing Brave pieces such as, Jennifer Anniston, Vanessa Hudgens , Carrie Bradshaw in Sex & the City, and various others.
After exploring their website and numerous fashion spreads featuring Brave Belts, their belts not only have the potential to make your favourite jean and tee combo even more hip, but you don’t have to worry about where and how their products are being made. Brave Leather hides no secrets when it comes to their manufacturing process as they are sure to keep their customers aware of their strong ethical beliefs regarding their care for human rights and the environment. As a brand, they are committed to ensuring a clean, safe factory with skilled craftspeople paid a fair living wage. As well, no animals are killed just for the purpose of their leather but instead all materials are reclaimed from the food industry. Being informed of these efforts upfront only made me love the brand even more, especially considering how little we often really know, or even think about where and how our favourite products are made. By meeting the highest standards of quality and production, Brave Beltworks are now cinching the waists and hips of citizens all around North America and parts of Asia and Europe. The best part of it all is that it is “made in Canada,” giving Canadians something to be proud of and feel good about while wearing. So next time you’re after spicing up that outfit of yours, why not release your inner braveness and buckle up in your new Brave Belt!
— In Toronto, Brave Belts are sold at Over the Rainbow, Holt Renfrew and Mendocino. From $49 to $165.
