Garter Belt History

Before pantyhose were invented, women wore stockings. While some people interchange the two terms, stockings are actually two separate nylons that come thigh-high, unlike pantyhose, which are one-piece nylons that come all the way to the waist. Stockings require support and garters provide it. Although garters aren’t as popular as they once were (when they were the only option for holding up stockings), many women still love the look and sexy quality that this item provides.

Brief Garter Belt History

The garter belt is the lingerie item that fits around a woman’s waist; garters are attached to it. Garter belts are now made in many different materials, including silk, satin and even leather.

Garters had been around for centuries before garter belts came on the scene and it wasn’t just women who wore them. Men also wore stockings and the only way to keep them up on the leg was to hold them in place with garters. In the early 20th century, garter belts were invented to make stocking wear simpler and more convenient. Now women could just slip into a belt and attach their nylons directly to it, instead of to a corset or girdle. This was important because during the 1920’s, large numbers of women abandoned the confining corsets; thus was born the flapper, who scandalized the previously staid fashion scene with her short skirts, bobbed hair and decadent lifestyle.

If you’re into vintage lingerie, you’ll see that many older garter belts incorporate some of the same fabrics they do today, including lace, silk and satin. Yesteryear’s garter belts weren’t necessarily seen as seductive wear, but today’s garter belts are definitely in that category. Because they’re no longer a necessary item for women who wear nylons, they now have other uses beyond simply function.

Modern Day History of Garter Belts

Garter belts have a long and storied history, moving from functional items to more decorative lingerie. You can find new garters at lingerie stores such as Victoria’s Secret and Frederick’s of Hollywood, but if vintage is more your style, there are vintage retailers as well as online sites who specialize in this area. Choosing a garter belt with a rich history can make you feel connected to women from the past, women who may not have had the freedom women have today in the home and in the workplace. When shopping from vintage shops, you’ll have to bear in mind that the size may not be an indication of modern day fit.

Women tended to be slimmer decades ago, when fast food was unheard of and walking to the store was more common than driving. You’ll need to rely more on measurements than small, medium and large labels, so if an online shop lists measurements, take heed before buying. You may wear a size six, which translates into a small size today, but this could be a medium in vintage wear.

Although garter belt history includes falling out of fashion during the 1960’s, when pantyhose came on the scene, they never really went away. For women who don’t like pantyhose or for women who like dressing seductively for their partners, garter belts have a lasting place in modern history.

Today’s Garter Belts

There isn’t much difference between the garter belts of today and those from nearly a century ago. You can find belts in demure white satin as well as racy black lace. It all depends on your particular style. The wide variety of colors and designs ensures that you’ll be able to find a garter belt to match the rest of your lingerie outfit.

Corsets and girdles are still made with attached garters, but for a romantic rendezvous, you’ll want to attach stockings to something sexier, like a teddy or bustier. However, garter belts allow you more freedom; you just slip it around your waist without worrying about confining anything.

Whatever way you wear your garter belt, enjoy this piece of lingerie with a long, rich history behind it.