Suspender Belt
A suspender belt—called garter belt in American English—is an undergarment worn around the waist with attached straps (suspenders) that clip onto stockings to hold them up. Before elastic hold-ups and pantyhose, suspender belts were the only way to wear stockings.
Suspender Belt vs. Garter Belt
These terms mean the same thing:
- Suspender belt: British/European term
- Garter belt: American term
Don't confuse with "suspenders" (American) or "braces" (British) for holding up trousers—completely different garments.
How Suspender Belts Work
- Belt: Fastens around natural waist or hips
- Straps: Hang down front and back of legs
- Clips: Attach to stocking welt
- Tension: Straps pull stockings up, preventing slipping
Types of Suspender Belts
By Strap Count
| Type | Straps | Use |
|---|---|---|
| 4-strap | 2 front, 2 back | Most common, sufficient for most |
| 6-strap | 2 front, 2 side, 2 back | Better hold, prevents twisting |
| 8-strap | Multiple angles | Maximum security, vintage authentic |
| 12-strap | Very secure | Specialty, rare |
By Style
- Basic: Simple band with attached straps, functional
- Lace: Decorative lace fabric, feminine
- Satin: Smooth, elegant finish
- Wide waist: Extends higher, waist-cinching
- Narrow: Minimal band, sits lower
- Vintage style: Historically accurate designs
Choosing a Suspender Belt
For Everyday Wear
- 4-strap is usually sufficient
- Smooth, non-bulky under clothing
- Comfortable waistband that doesn't dig
- Adjustable straps for different stocking lengths
For Special Occasions
- Decorative styles—lace, satin, embellished
- Matching lingerie sets
- 6-strap for secure, elegant look
For Active Wear
- 6 or 8 straps prevent shifting
- Secure clip mechanism
- Non-slip waistband
How to Wear
- Put on knickers first: Suspender belt goes over underwear (for practical bathroom reasons)
- Position belt: Sit at natural waist or hip, depending on style
- Put on stockings: Roll up each stocking, smooth from toe to thigh
- Attach clips: Front clips first, then back, gripping the welt
- Adjust tension: Straps should hold firmly but not pull too tight
- Align seams: If wearing seamed stockings, straighten now
Suspender Clips
The clips (also called clasps or garters) come in several types:
- Metal loop: Traditional, most common, very secure
- Plastic/nylon: Gentler on stockings, lighter
- Button style: Button pushes through loop, vintage
- Rubber nub: Grips from inside, for delicate fabrics
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Stockings slipping | Tighten straps, use more straps |
| Clips popping off | Check welt quality, try different clips |
| Belt riding up | Size down, try wide-waist style |
| Visible under clothing | Choose narrow, smooth belt style |
| Clips damaging stockings | Grip welt only, not sheer fabric |
Historical Note
Before pantyhose (invented 1959), all women wore stockings with suspender belts or girdles with attached garters. The convenience of pantyhose largely replaced garter belts for everyday wear, but they've remained popular for special occasions and fashion.