Already a veteran in the vintage denim industry, Jeff immersed himself in the world of leatherwork, learning from some of the best craftsmen in America. He quickly excelled at using vintage designs to create belts from the finest leathers, aged studs & buckles, and semi-prescious stones. He solidified relationships with renowned tanners, gemologists, lapiadies and designers. After years of experimentation, Jeff finalized his first collection, and Old Stud Handmade was born.

Old Stud became one of the first U.S. companies to reinstate old-leather craftwork methods into modern-styled belts and cuffs that would appeal to both men and women. Over the years, the brand became well-known as a leader in the artisanal leather goods space and built a reputation for distinctive pieces that grew even better with age. The belts caught the attention of discerning shoppers around the globe, from celebrities like Madonna, Leonardo DiCaprio, Lady Gaga and Billy Bob Thornton to artists & fashionistas. Jeff coined the phrase, “Often Imitated, Never Duplicated.”

In 2023, Jeff was ready to retire and began searching for a successor to carry on his legacy. On the verge of hanging up his studs, fate stepped in when a group of beloved fans - who’d shopped Old Stud belts at the upscale Henry Lehr boutiques in Westport, CT and The Hamptons - approached Jeff. After showcasing our decades-long Old Stud collection and proving our dedication to handmade goods, he entrusted us with his legacy, and we acquired the business and his extensive leather archives. Our designers then apprenticed under Jeff (or attended “belt school” as he says) and immersed themselves in the world of traditional leather techniques and studding. Those skills are now being put to work in our new studio in Norwalk, CT as we undergo the process of giving Old Stud new life. And we have all promised to follow Jeff’s one non-negotiable: Old Stud Belts must be created using old-school craftsmanship.

Today, from our studio in Norwalk Connecticut, we continue the original mission of Old Stud: crafting distinctive, handmade leather goods as authentic and unique as those who wear them. 

With the explosive popularity of western-style trends - from Beyonce to Taylor Swift - as well as the always beloved rocker-chic style and the reigning power of denim, the demand for distinctive leather belts & cuffs is greater than ever.

As always, every Old Stud belt is handmade in the U.S. by skilled artisans using only the best materials, and every style is unique - a work of art unto itself that helps set the tone of an outfit; never fading into the background. We believe in distinctive artistry, superior materials, and quality that lasts. Each belt molds to your life over time, becoming part of your story.  

An Old Stud belt isn’t just an accessory, it’s a statement of individuality.