One of the most crucial elements of traditional Russian clothing for both men and women was the belt. It was customary to always wear a belt, as removing it was considered a dishonorable act. Interestingly, to this day, the expression "letting one's belt loose" is used to describe inappropriate behavior.

Belts in Russian attire had practical uses. People would hang a small pouch called a "kalita" on their belts and tuck in their shirt. Men wore a special type of belt known as the "kushak" – a long, wide belt adorned with intricate golden embroidery that could be several meters long. The kushak was wrapped around the waist multiple times and served as a holder for essential items like wallets, inkwells, knives, and more. It was used to fasten caftans and was also given as valuable gifts. For example, an Iranian ambassador once gifted Tsar Mikhail Fyodorovich twelve kushaks adorned with gold and silver.