Garter Belts: How to Style Them Over Tights and Skirts

The garter belt has stepped out of the lingerie drawer and onto the street. In alt fashion it is a styling piece, worn over tights, skirts and shorts to add straps, edge and that unmistakable goth attitude. Here is how to wear one.

Garter Belts, goth outfit with lace garter belt with suspender straps worn over tights — The full goth silhouette, head to toe.

Garter belt or leg garter?

A garter belt sits at the waist or hips with straps running down the thighs. A leg garter wraps a single thigh. Both add the layered, strappy look that defines a lot of gothic and e-girl outfits. You will find both in our body and leg accessories.

Garter Belts, close-up of lace garter belt with suspender straps worn over tights — The details are where the look actually lives.

How to style a garter belt

Over tights: layer a garter belt over fishnet or sheer tights for instant edge.
Over a skirt: strap one across a pleated skirt from our skirts to break up the silhouette.
With shorts: a leg garter over thigh high socks is pure e-girl.

Garter Belts, flat lay of the key pieces — The pieces on their own. Start here and build outwards.

Keep it balanced

Garter straps draw the eye, so let them be the feature. Pair with a simple top and let the harness detail do the work. Add platform boots from our shoes and boots to finish.