First off, the belay loop is an option you can get on a harness. It is a loop extending from the waist to the leg straps. This makes hooking up for belaying easier, especially if you are outside in the cold, trying to strap in with mittens.
Gear loops go along the outside of the harness. These are designed to hold items such as belay devices, quick draws, or even shoes why you are not wearing them. Harnesses come with different number and sizes of these loops. When purchasing a harness, consider what kind of gear you will be planning on holding on the loops.
Leg loops are the straps that go around the climbers legs. If you plan on climbing in the same conditions every time then it'd be ideal to purchase a harness that does not adjust. However, if you plan on wearing layers or climbing outdoors, then an adjustable leg loop would be preferred. Leg loops are also offered with padding. It's recommended you do this for all climbing (except mountaineering.)
Taper is another thing to consider with the leg loops. While looking for a harness be sure that the leg loops do not hinder your mobility and taper enough to make sure of this.
Here is an Matrix from www.abc-of-rockclimbing.com that will help show what kind of harnesses to look for, for each type of climbing:
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