Garter belts are often associated with sexy lingerie, but this fabric waist belt actually serves a bigger and more important purpose than spicing up your undergarments. This hosiery accessory gained popularity in the mid-1900s because women needed a lighter and less cumbersome option to girdles, which, prior to garter belts, held up stockings. A garter belt fits around the waist and has roughly four string attachments that hook onto thigh high hosiery. These "belts" are made in different sizes and materials, giving every woman the ability to keep those stockings in place and feel a little sexier.
Body Fit
If you're not a fan of pantyhose, but can't get those stockings to stay up, garter belts keep hosiery from falling down while giving the wearer a feeling of sensuality. However, choosing a garter belt can get a bit tricky. Buy a belt in the wrong material and your body will never forgive you.
* '''Stretch Satin''': This is a smooth and shiny material that will make any body type look like a pin-up from the 50's as long as the fit is right.
* '''Stretch Lace''': Usually lace is a material that, when it's overdone, can look tacky. However, garter belts made from stretch lace are guaranteed to make plus-sized women and petite women look amazing.
* '''Leather''': If you're looking for a garter belt for an anniversary or some other special event, leather garter belts will raise level of sexiness by a long shot. Just keep in mind, this garter belt is for play-only use and will not look good underneath clothing.
* '''PVC''': This is another play-only garter belt.
What A Waist
When you're buying a garter belt, pick one that looks good on you! This means making sure it fits the shape of your waist. Remember, one size does not fit all when it comes to these accessories, so you will need to take the following waist types into consideration.
* '''Low-Rise''': These garter belts sit low on the waist, but make sure they fall lower than the top of your underwear.
* '''Midrise rest right below your navel. This helps to cover any troubled areas you might have.
* '''Highup look.
