Garter Belts & Stockings

The garter belt and stockings form an iconic duo of women's lingerie, worn as much for personal pleasure as for seduction. Discover how they work, what types exist, and how to choose the right combination.

The garter belt: how does it work?

The garter belt is a supple belt usually made of elastic, lace, or satin worn around the waist or hips. It is equipped with 4 to 6 garters: adjustable straps ending in a metal or plastic clip that attaches to the top edge of the stocking. This support system, which appeared in the 19th century to replace long corsets, remains popular today for its aesthetics as much as for its relative comfort compared to classic tights.

As for stockings, the golden rule is simple: they are distinguished from tights by their length, which stops at the top of the thigh. Their top edge, reinforced by a silicone band (for stay-ups) or designed to receive the garter clips, provides support. Denier ratings vary from 10 (very sheer) to 40 and higher (opaque and warm): a concrete detail to keep in mind when making your choice.

The different types of stockings and garter belts

• Stay-up stockings: featuring an inner silicone band, they stay up without a garter belt, making them practical for everyday use; they are often adorned with lace or a bow on the thigh.
• Fishnet stockings: knitted in large, open stitches, they provide a graphic texture and pair just as well with a rock look as with fine lingerie, such as the embroidered Leg Avenue models in this collection.
• Garter belt: a distinct piece to be worn over or under panties, available in lace, vinyl, or microfiber, often sold separately to be matched with various sets.
• Coordinated sets: the garter belt is integrated into a complete kit (bra, panties, stockings), such as the 3-piece lace or vinyl sets in our selection, ideal for a cohesive look without the effort of coordinating.

How to choose your garter belt and stockings

• Size and waist measurement: check the measurements indicated by the brand; a garter belt that is too loose causes the garters to ride up, while one that is too tight will mark the skin.
• Material: lace for softness and aesthetics, vinyl for a second-skin effect and a more intense vibe, microfiber for everyday comfort, which can also be found in our selection of women's lingerie.
• Number of garters: 4 garters are sufficient for occasional use; 6 garters distribute tension better and keep stockings in place longer.
• Stocking transparency: choose between 10 and 20 denier for a nude or very sheer effect, 30 to 40 denier for a more opaque, covering finish, or fishnet for an assertive graphic effect.
• Occasion and style: for a romantic evening, a coordinated lace set is perfect; to explore a more assertive style, vinyl or fishnet models pair naturally with pieces from our bodystocking collection.