Garters are a wardrobe item that few people remember nowadays. Once an essential part of every outfit, today they are a relic of the past, recalled only in the context of specific occasions such as prom or weddings. However, it’s worth knowing that garters can also be worn without any special occasion—to feel beautiful and sexy. Check out why garters are worn and how to match them to a particular outfit.
What are garters used for?
In the past, they were primarily used to hold up stockings, which were not as elastic as those produced today, so they often slipped down the legs. Garters served mainly a practical function in this context—they were usually equipped with special clasps that kept the stockings in place. Interestingly, in medieval times, they were used by both men and women. Thus, they were an essential element of almost every wardrobe.
Today, their role is much smaller—because most women prefer self-supporting stockings, the usefulness of garters has significantly decreased. However, this does not mean they have completely gone out of fashion.
Why wear garters? When is it worth using them?
In Poland, garters are an essential part of every bride’s wardrobe, but many people wonder what a garter means on this special day.
Their great popularity is mainly linked to superstition—the wearing of a garter is believed to bring the couple a happy marriage and ensure the husband’s complete fidelity to the future wife. Most brides usually choose a traditional white garter, but increasingly, wedding garters decorated with blue elements can be seen—allowing the bride to check off “something blue” from her list.
A garter is also a wonderful gift idea—from the husband, bridesmaids, or maid of honor. In that case, it also gains sentimental value. When buying the perfect garter, it’s worth considering the dress cut—if the dress is very fitted, it’s better to choose a smooth garter that won’t be visible under the dress. On the other hand, if the bride has chosen a princess-style gown, be careful with snagging decorations that could tear the delicate fabric of the dress.
What is the garter for at prom?
According to tradition, girls preparing for their final exams wear red garters at prom. This custom has been around for many years, but not everyone knows what a garter means in this context.
Like at weddings, it is meant to bring luck to future graduates during their exams. It is important that the students wear it throughout the entire night of celebration—then they will pass their exams successfully. Wearing red underwear, which also brings good luck, is very popular. The same set should be worn by the future graduates on the exam day.
When choosing the right garter for prom, it’s worth carefully considering your outfit. According to tradition, most graduates pose for photos showing this element of their attire, so it’s good to match the garter to the dress itself. Lace models look especially beautiful, charmingly contrasting with tights or stockings. Various decorations such as bows or sequins are also very popular. With the latter, caution is advised—if you plan to wear a silk dress, sharp elements of the garter—like sequins or rhinestones—may snag the delicate fabric.
Classic garter—on which leg should it be worn?
Both at weddings and prom, it is customary to wear the garter on the left leg—this way, it is closer to the heart, bringing luck to the wearer.
However, if you decide to wear a garter daily, it doesn’t really matter. A very interesting option is also investing in a special garter belt, which looks great combined with garters.
Garters—where to buy?
You can buy wedding, prom, or everyday garters in almost any lingerie store. Sometimes, a wide selection of garters can also be found in local haberdasheries.
Comments: 0