Garter and Garter Belts
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Garters are a part of clothing article consists of narrow bands of fabric fastened near the leg to keep the stockings from slipping off your thighs. Usually ju
st a few inches in width, they are made of leather or heavy cloth which is decorated with small bells or ribbons. The technology of elastic and other materials like silicone used in the top band of fully fashioned stockings have render the garters unnecessary from a functional standpoint. But they are still worn for the bold fashion statement they hold.
Back in history, a garter is often worn by newlywed brides. It is the groom’s right to remove the garter. The symbolism to deflowering is obvious. The removed garter is then thrown to the male guests. Superstition has it that an unmarried male wedding guest who successfully catches the garter is believed to be the next man headed for the altar. In Elizabethan fashions, men also wear garters with their hose. Using a garter that holds up socks has been a continued part of some men’s clothing up until now.