The belt buckle is said to have been invented during the Elizabethan era by Italian blacksmith Tomaso Kellioni. Others say the Persians introduced it to the Romans after their conquest.

In the United States, removable, ornamental belt "buckles" that generally attach to the original buckle are common.

Belt Buckles as fashion has risen to prominence, especially in the United States, over the past five years through the two innovations in the belt buckle industry. The classic Western Belt Buckle has secured a loyal following of collectors that have kept interest in the trade alive. Additionally, the Belt Buckle as an extension for gadgets and other electronic devices has renewed interest in this piece of clothing. Unfortunately, there are no existing documents which explain the methods of application for belt buckles.

The most elaborate western wear is the custom work created by rodeo tailors such as Nudie Cohn, which is characterized by elaborate embroidery and rhinestone decoration.  This type of western wear, popularized by country music performers, is the origin of the phrase "rhinestone cowboy".