In light of the recent Keith Carradine incident, covering a belt line named Tie-Ups could be construed as being in poor taste, but I assure you: these belts are for holding up your pants, not for use in crazy Thai cross-dressing sex games.

You may not know this, but I have a very tough time finding belts I like. It's really hard to find a belt that's the right thickness, the right style, and has the right size buckle. Buckles are either too big, too thick, or the wrong finish. I'm currently beltless for this reason. I just happened upon a line of plastic belts called Tie-Ups out of Italy, though, that may just solve my problem.

They sum it up nicely on their site: Tie-Ups are the desmonstration that in the world of fashion, there are still many ideas to be realized. The belt has always been linked to traditional features that identify it and define it like the materials, for example. Belts are either leather or fabric with a metal buckle. Leather goes with classic/dress clothes and fabric with casual wear. Tie-Ups overcome that: plastic and rubber substitute for leather, fabric, and metal and can accompany any style.

Just in case you're leary, these belts are really chic. Don't think plastic and rubber and get the wrong idea. It's kinda like when I first heard about the all plastic Toy Watches. I was like "Are you kidding me?" Then I saw them and they're gorgeous. While I don't think these belts are suitable for every guy and every outfit, I definitely think they rock and they can be worn with cool, casual outfits and if you've got the right style, they can be worn with dress clothes, but only if you know how to rock it.

Check out their site for more info on the concept behind the belts and how the belts are made, as well as pics from the three lines: the Basic Collection, the Slimcut Collection, and the Kids Collection.

While there are no US retailers listed, word is that they're currently being carried at Nordstrom and rumor has it there's a deal with Barneys in the works. Keep your eyes peeled and get yours before everyone else does. And did I mention that you don't have to take them off going through the metal detectors at the airport? Priceless.