A narrow strip of fabric sewn vertically onto the waistband of trousers, skirts, or dresses. It prevents a belt from sliding up or down and keeps the waistband securely anchored to the belt. They are typically bar-tacked at the top and bottom for maximum strength.
Heard on the job
Make sure you reinforce the belt loops with a tight zigzag stitch so they don't tear out when the customer pulls on them.
Insider tip
When sewing belt loops, cut a single long strip of folded fabric, topstitch the edges, and then cut it into individual loop lengths to save time.