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Frequently asked questions about men’s suspenders

Tuesday August 28, 2018 | Administrator

Men’s Suspenders – Frequently Asked Questions

More and more people are choosing to wear braces or braces either as regular everyday wear or on special occasions. This guide to frequently asked questions about men’s suspenders is designed to help you decide whether to wear or gift a pair of suspenders.

Are suspenders better than belts?

Belts, especially those with large buckles, cut into the waist, which is particularly uncomfortable for the taller man when seated. In addition, belts do not offer freedom of movement. Suspenders or suspenders are available in a variety of lengths and are fully adjustable to ensure a comfortable fit no matter your body shape or height. This will ensure your pants are held in the correct position, so keep the pant leg properly over the shoe. Suspenders also add a vertical length dimension to the eye, allowing a person to look slimmer.

Do you wear a belt with suspenders?

no The function of a belt is to hold up a person’s pants. The function of braces is the same. You don’t have to wear both.

Why are braces worn?

Suspenders are primarily worn to hold up a person’s trousers. This may be due to personal preference or where a trouser belt would not be appropriate due to the occasion or personal health reasons.

Suspenders should match pants?

Suspenders don’t have to match your pants. One consideration may be that if a tie is worn, a man can wear plain suspenders with a patterned tie and vice versa.

What do you combine braces with?

Shoes – When wearing braces with leather tips, the color of the leather tip should match the wearer’s shoe. So if you’re looking for a pair of suspenders to wear with black shoes, go for black – for suspenders with leather ends, the color of the leather end should match the wearer’s shoe. So if you are looking for suspenders to wear with black shoes, go for black leather suspenders and brown shoes for suspenders with brown leather tips.

Other Accessories and Clip Colors – Suspender clips are available in gold or silver colored metal. If the user should wear the braces with a shirt, tie and cufflinks, it can be considered to use metals of the same color if possible. If you wear suspenders with gold clasps, wear a gold tie clip and gold cufflinks, and if you wear suspenders with silver clasps, wear a silver tie clip and silver cufflinks.

How do I adjust the length of my braces?

There are sliders on most braces that allow you to adjust the length of the braces to suit your needs. The sliders are usually the same color as the clips, usually either gold or silver. As a guide, when you’re done adjusting the braces, the slider should be halfway down your chest. If the sliders seem too low after fitting the braces, you may need to purchase extra long braces.

How do I know what brace size to order?

If you’ve never worn braces before, it’s best to measure yourself before ordering. Simply place a flexible tape measure or string at the back of your waistband where you would attach the first clip. Run the tape measure or string across the opposite shoulder as if tracing how the suspenders would lay. Then, take the tape measure or string down the front of your pants to where you would attach your suspenders to your waistband. Finally, check what the measurement reads on the tape measure, or if you used it, measure the cord with a ruler or rigid tape measure. This is the minimum length of braces you will need for a comfortable fit.

We offer suspenders in the following lengths. Some braces are available in all sizes, but for some designs we offer a more limited size range.

Small – 40 inches long

Standard size – 44 inches long

XL size – 48 inches long

XXL size – 52 inches long

XXXL size – 56 inches long

When in doubt, choose a longer pair of braces as these can easily be made smaller using the slider, while a shorter pair can only be made longer by stretching the brace material uncomfortably longer.

Suspenders for men are a nice accessory. They not only give your outfit a personal look, but are also very functional. Suspenders support your pants like a belt—but unlike a belt, they don’t pinch at the waist. Men’s braces are not just a luxurious and practical accessory; We’re also seeing more and more men’s braces popping up in recent trends. Suspenders are now widely used as a stylish accessory on the catwalk and in fashion magazines.

Suspenders for men have been part of our wardrobe for around three centuries. In addition to their practical use, they also play a role in changing fashions. Braces are embedded in our culture and are therefore expected on certain occasions according to etiquette. Although women occasionally wear suspenders depending on the fashion trend, we mainly find this garment in the men’s wardrobe. In casual use there are no rules for wearing suspenders and you choose the style you like, for example you can wear suspenders with jeans or chinos, maybe even with a pocket square or with a V-neck sweater. However, when it comes to pairing men’s suspenders with a tuxedo, there is a traditional dress code.

The 3 do’s and don’ts

Leave your belt at home!

Very important: Men’s suspenders and a belt should NOT be worn at the same time. It would be like wearing 2 pairs of socks on top of each other. Suspenders for men have the same function as the belt.

Visible or invisible

With number 2 there is a rule that many people no longer take so seriously and can therefore be called a bit outdated. According to etiquette, men’s braces should be covered. Whether wearing a jacket or sweater, they should (according to tradition) not be visible. This “rule” originated in London in 1893. The hot summer caused English workers to take off their jackets en masse. The connection between men’s suspenders and the worker was quickly established. Suspenders for men showed that you belonged to the working class, and that wasn’t considered chic. You can read more about the history of men’s braces here. Luckily, men’s suspenders are very trendy these days and are allowed to be shown off!

leather pattern

The button closures are at number three. Although it’s not a strict etiquette, traditionally, suspenders are finished with leather loops at the ends. This leather loop needs to be attached to the buttonholes that are on the inside of the waistband of the pants. However, nowadays not all suspenders have such a leather loop. Variants are available that only have clamp closures at the ends. The advantage of these clip fasteners is that they fit on any pair of pants. Not all trousers come with buttons on the inside of the waistband – hence these clips make braces a much more accessible accessory. Would you like to know more? Read here what you should pay attention to when buying suspenders for men.

Suspenders, referred to as braces in the United States, have been around in one form or another since the birth of pants or panties. Suspenders have done a great job of avoiding the pant-losing catastrophe for many years, but they are also a style and fashion statement in modern use.

With more comebacks than Frank Sintra, who was an avid wearer of braces, braces have come and gone. In the 19th century they were classified as “underwear” and it was considered a daring move to bare them!

As late as the early 20th century, it was considered distasteful or rude to wear braces unless they were covered by a vest or other article of clothing—as late as 1938, Long Island law prohibited wearing them.

The Decline of Suspenders and Suspenders

Oversized foot suits were a big hit in the 1940s, which meant suspenders/suspenders had to be worn to keep the trousers at a desired lower chest height. The trend was suddenly interrupted at the outbreak of World War II when this use of fabric was restricted. At the same time, large numbers of military personnel began wearing belts to support the trousers of their uniforms – a habit that continued as they were demoted. This posed a threat to the braces industry. Suspenders were no longer seen, they were no longer worn.

Suspenders/suspenders were all but phased out in the 1950’s as a new generation of Hollywood movie stars like Marlon Brando and James Dean graced the cinema screens in jeans!! Jeans with belt loops, no braces needed!! A whole generation of young men had a new vision of glamor… and there wasn’t a brace in sight.

Two new action heroes appeared on our screens in the 1950’s, they were British, they drove sports cars and they didn’t wear jeans!! Roger Moore as Saint and Sean Connery as James Bond made their screen debuts in 1962, the impeccably tailored, bespoke style, suspenders included!

By the mid-1960s it was back in fashion to dress down rather than more casually, the Mod movement had sparked a renaissance in tailoring, but the style was influenced by elegant Italian design and unfortunately suspenders didn’t go well with this look. It is somewhat ironic that in 1969, when all seemed doomed for the braces business, redemption came in the most unlikely form of the ‘rebellious teenager’ and another British youth subculture – skinheads. Suspenders were an integral part of the skinhead outfit, and were worn in a prominent place – possibly as a bold, anarchic statement that demolished what was left of the conservative notion of suspenders as underwear. Much like Superman wearing his underpants on the outside of his pants, the skinhead style had a fearless aura and drew fearful looks.

In the 1970s, the focus of pop culture shifted from the streets to the dance floor, but no matter how vigorously the hips gyrated at the nightclub, the fitted tops of the flared trousers needed little support. In any case, the practical, dependable, masculine style of suspenders would be at odds with satin shirts unbuttoned to the waist. In the 1980s, Wall Street spawned a film portrayal starring Michael Douglas, who won an Academy Award for Best Actor. The main point here is that he’s remembered because braces are a prominent part of his wardrobe, and bankers around the world follow him (pardon the pun intended), and braces/suspenders sigh of relief!

James Bond brings it back with Albert Thurston suspenders

Cue 007. A phenomenon that had met its own mixed fortunes over the years. Just like the braces business, the James Bond franchise needed new life, and they both found it in Daniel Craig. Bond was back. A born soldier who was as comfortable in high society as Brummell was, he could mix it with motorcycle gangs and junk with skinheads, survive in a cell full of jail bums, and tame every wolf on Wall Street. When it came to bankrupting a terrorist financier in a high-stakes poker game, he did it in the coolest way – he wore a pair of Albert Thurston suspenders.

Suspenders/suspenders are now much more of a fashion statement than a way to hold up your pants!! A style statement for the immaculately dressed!! Make sure the pants match the height of your style by making sure the fabric is drapey and steeped in quality and style. Huddersfield Textiles has everything you need!! View our ranges here https://shop.huddersfieldtextiles.com/cloth/cloth-bunches/

Are suspenders the same as braces?

Suspenders are quite well known in the US as a stylish accessory that attaches to pants and goes over each shoulder. But if you’ve heard some braces called braces, you might be confused; aren’t they actually the same thing? If you’ve ever wondered if braces are braces and vice versa, we’re here to finally provide a definitive answer. Check out why there are two different styling terms and tips.

Suspenders vs Suspenders

Ultimately, all braces are braces, but not all braces are braces. The term “suspenders” refers to the fashion accessory that fastens at the waist and slips over each shoulder to hold the pants in place. “Braces” on the other hand is a bit more specific; This term generally refers only to suspenders with a button fastening at the waist. In many cases, these are more elegant braces with leather or fabric straps.

Where you are from can also affect what term you use. Most Britons and Australians say braces, while those from the United States and Canada say braces. Despite this, you will still see suspenders as a term used almost exclusively for button suspenders as opposed to clip suspenders.

Style Suspenders & Suspenders

If you choose to wear suspenders, you will need to have buttons sewn into your pants. This extra step takes some effort, but many people prefer suspenders because they look extra elegant and sophisticated after the straps are attached. Suspenders with clips, on the other hand, can be worn with any type of pants, shorts or skirt, which is a plus for versatility.

Some consider wearing a belt with suspenders to be a fashion faux pas. You can even wear trousers without belt loops with suspenders for an extra fashionable look. However, if you value comfort and want to wear suspenders with a belt, just make sure they match or compliment each other to create a cohesive outfit. You can even wear belt clip suspenders to tie the whole look together.

For a subtle, professional style with suspenders, wear a blazer or blazer over them. To show off your colorful or original suspenders as a fashion accessory, wear them over a plain shirt with buttons.

Use these tips to distinguish between suspenders and suspenders and achieve a stylish look with both.

There’s not much a fat guy can do to flatter his figure. It’s more about damage limitation. But braces actually make a lot of sense for corpulent or obese men, men whose actual waists are larger than their hips. A belt combats the body physics imposed by a beer buckle, and it’s bound to be a futile task for a bare belt to hold up your pants. That’s why so many men wear their stomachs over their pants. Suspenders, on the other hand, allow the waist of the pants to stay close to the physical equator, while with a belt they would slip up to the Tropic of Capricorn. Thus, braces help normalize the fit for the fat and control the plumber’s unsightly butt. Suspenders also feature vertical lines that slim a man. I say let your pants hang loosely from your shoulders while you consider your body.

I have a wedding this week and it’s a black tie.

I have a terrible confession though… I don’t own a tuxedo.

I know, I know, what kind of respectable menswear blogger is missing this true formal wear staple?

But I just didn’t attend the necessary events to guarantee the dough for such quality fabrics.

So I improvise with a sleek black suit, crisp white shirt and sharp charcoal wool tie to give it a bit of texture.

I had a thought that suspenders might add a little sophistication and a little old-school vibe to the look.

Let’s take a closer look at the historical menswear that is common to all levels of style, from skinhead/punk to the Wall Street banker to the black tie gala and of course now the stylish hipster.

The belt starts here

Suspenders emerged more than 300 years ago. At their core, they are simply fabric worn over the shoulders to hold up the pants in the front and back.

Unlike a belt, which pulls your pants tight around your waist to keep the pants from falling down, suspenders just keep them in place. This is important when thinking about your silhouette and pants. If the waist is too big, suspenders don’t make the pants look tighter; They just help keep the pants in place…literally hanging around the waist.

Albert Thurston introduced the first modern braces in 1822. Thurston invented suspenders in response to the high neckline of the day, which made a belt unrealistic. Nonetheless, men continued to regard suspenders as underwear.

The belts we know and love today regained prominence in the 1930s when the stylish waistcoats (used to hide suspenders from view) were worn less. But braces live on.

When braces

Are suspenders formal wear only? As you will see above, historically they were considered underwear. However, high-quality suspenders – often made of silk – are primarily white collared clothing that are only fastened with buttons located on the inside of a waistband.

RULE: If you decide to go the button route, make sure your shoes match the leather of the suspenders! Clip-on suspenders, which attach to the waistband of each pant, are also a viable option. TIME.com notes, “British skinheads in the 1960s adopted suspenders as part of their working-class look – often attaching them to tight blue jeans that didn’t really need help to stay in place.”

While perhaps not as formal, many writers agree that it’s okay to wear them with pants that even have belt loops. No matter how they are applied, they are not just formal wear. If you’re as cool as Larry King, you can get away with it anywhere.

Try it to add some texture and layer to your everyday wear. Just make sure the fabric color matches or contrasts with your shirt, pants, socks… you know, the usual rules of matching.

The conclusion

In my opinion, it all depends on the material and the style. If they’re silk, wear them to your next cocktail party or evening wear event. Whether they clip or button, I’m not worried – if they look sharp and you know how to snap together, then you’re breaking the rules.

Be forewarned though: this garment isn’t trending just yet, so be prepared to stand out. My one absolute piece of advice is universally accepted by all style writers – never wear suspenders and a belt together!

The GQ Style Guy put it best: “Whenever I see a guy wearing a belt and suspenders, which doesn’t happen too often, I’m like, ‘Now here’s a naysayer. Guys who wear a belt and suspenders are probably carrying umbrellas and more than one condom on a sunny day.”

Essentially, this modern man explains that if he were worried about his pants falling off, one would just wear both pieces, in which case he’s probably worried about the sky falling daily, the world ending tomorrow, and milk spilling . what are you hiding so much

As the holiday season begins, whether it’s a Christmas party, a New Year’s Eve celebration or a gift, check out some of these modern sharp suspenders and find the one that suits your style, from street to punk, heritage to classic, to formal .

A guide to men’s braces

Wednesday February 19, 2014 | Administrator

If you ever thought braces were just something your grandpa “used to” wear? Think again! Men’s suspenders are back in style and it looks like they’re here to stay. Here we provide a beginner’s guide to wearing men’s suspenders, covering everything you need to know from the different types to how to wear them in style.

The most common type of suspenders for men are clip-on suspenders.

Types of braces

Let’s start by taking you through the different types of men’s suspenders available. The most common type of suspenders for men are clip-on suspenders. As the name suggests, these have clips at the end of each suspender, making them easy to attach to your pants. When investing in clip-on braces, it’s important to buy good quality ones with strong clips. Poorly made clips lose their strength after a while and you don’t want to be walking around with braces flapping around your leg!

Next we have button suspenders. These are the original suspenders and are probably similar to the ones your grandfather wore ‘back then’. These braces have loops at the end that easily hook onto the buttons on the inside of your pants. Suspenders with buttons are known for their reliability, although today they are not worn as commonly as men’s clip-on suspenders.

Last but not least we have the combo suspenders. These suspenders have both clip and button ends so you can change them up depending on your mood or whether your pants have buttons sewn in or not!

X vs Y

Now that we have established the different types of braces, let’s move to X and Y backs. Basically, the type of braces is determined by how the braces look from behind when you wear them. Some suspenders form the letter X, others form the letter Y.

X back braces are often preferred by men as they offer a better fit. They are equipped with two clips or buttons on the front and two clips or buttons on the back that you simply attach to your trousers. Y-backs, on the other hand, have two clips or buttons in the front and one in the back, which is why they’re often referred to as three-clip suspenders.

Whether you go for X back braces or Y back braces, you’ll find that there’s a leather, metal, or plastic hinge at the rear material transition that holds them in place. Obviously, leather and metal hinges look better than plastic hinges, but make the braces a bit more expensive.

Suspender Designs

While men used to wear simple suspenders, today they come in a wide variety of designs. Of course, men still wear solid color suspenders today, especially in the workplace, but if you want to add a whimsical touch to a weekend outfit, why not opt ​​for a printed design?

Wearing patterned suspenders is a great way to show a little of your personality through your clothing choices. You may also want to buy new braces for different occasions like Christmas parties, Valentine’s Day and Halloween throughout the year!

Today, most braces are made from stretchy elastic because it offers the most comfortable fit. In some places you can buy non-stretch fabric braces, but we can’t promise they’ll be just as comfortable!

Grow

The main problem men have when buying braces is size. Deciding on the perfect size braces can be quite difficult, so here are a few tips.

Standard Size – Suspender length up to 44 inches long

These are suitable for a medium sized person to a large jacket size or up to about 5ft 10in tall. These are the most popular braces sizes and fit the “average” person.

XL size – extra long braces up to 48 inches in length

These are designed to fit a person up to X Large jacket size or up to approximately 6ft 2in tall.

XXL SIZE – Extra Extra Long Braces measuring up to 132cm in length

These are suitable for a person up to XX/XXX Large Jacket or a person of large build and/or over 6ft 2in tall

XXXL size – extra extra extra long braces up to 56 inches in length

These are suitable for a person up to a 4XL jacket or over 6ft 4in tall and of larger build.

Most braces come with sliders. So if they feel a bit too long, you can just move the slider for a better fit.

Today, many men wear suspenders as part of casual wear.

How to wear suspenders

There are two ways you can wear men’s suspenders. The first is a corporate look and the second is casual/cool. For a corporate look that you can wear to work, simply clip your suspenders to your dress pants, over your formal shirt and throw on your suit jacket.

For a casual/cool weekend look, throw on your favorite shirt, roll up your sleeves and undo a button or two. Hop into your chinos and fasten your suspenders and voila! You’re ready to go.

What should I pay attention to when choosing suspenders?

1 Comment Tuesday, August 21st, 2018 | Administrator

This guide will help you make informed decisions about which men’s braces to buy, especially when deciding on a pair of braces to wear or give as a gift.

size of the wearer

Height and build are very important when choosing the right brace size. Many braces “off the shelf” are only shortened to 40-42 inches, which we found to be small. Our standard size suspenders are cut to a generous 44 inch length. For any person over 5ft 10in or wearing an XL or larger jacket, most standard “off the shelf” braces will not fit. Please see our Suspender Size Chart for more information. The most popular width of braces is 35 mm. Some work braces can be thicker at 40mm or even 50mm. 25mm wide so-called narrow braces are more of a trend item.

material

Suspenders are available in a wide range of materials including elastic, fabric and silk. A good quality elastic suspender band is the most commonly used today.

attachment

This is how the suspenders are attached to the wearer’s trousers. Traditionally these are either rolled leather ends or flat strips of leather attached to buttons on the waistband of trousers.

An alternative and by far the most popular are clip-on suspenders. Clip braces are convenient because they don’t require buttons on the waistband of the pants. These are simply clipped onto the waistband of the pants. Braces clips are available in silver or gold colored metal. They range from a thin simple clip to a heavier clip around 1 inch in size. The quality of the clip is very important. They should hold the trouser fabric, but not tear the trouser fabric. They should be able to be repeatedly attached and detached. There are cheaper braces available, but they often have poor quality clips.

We also sell Combination/combination-braces.html or 2 in 1 combo braces. These are braces with metal clips and leather ends. The wearer simply selects which style they want to wear that day and switches between the leather end clasps and clip-on suspenders. These are very versatile but generally more expensive.

Suspenders for all occasions

Traditionally, more formal occasions such as a wedding or a tuxedo function result in the wearing of leather formal suspenders. Apart from that, either clip suspenders or suspenders are as per user’s preference. Clip suspenders are usually worn for more casual everyday attire.

When attending a wedding, plain gray suspenders are very popular, along with pink, purple, and also light blue. Paisleys are also commonly used for weddings available on our site with silver or gold clips.

If you are looking for suit suspenders for the office or around town, our dotted or polka dot suspenders are in demand. These are like plain braces but with a touch of colour, perhaps to match a tie or handkerchief.

Monochrome suspenders are very popular, especially in the main colors of black, beige, blue, red, white and burgundy. However, as the clothes in the closet are becoming more colorful, the demand for brightly colored suspenders is also increasing. Pink suspenders, purple suspenders and our light blue suspenders are becoming more and more popular. We are always looking for lighter colored elastics to add to our range.

Striped suspenders are very traditional. They can have a constant thick stripe in a contrasting color through the elastic suspenders or consist of thinner stripes. Again, this is an easy way to add a pop of color to an outfit and might coordinate well with a tie or handkerchief.

We have a range of patterned suspenders including paisley suspenders, tartan suspenders and argyle suspenders. One of our most popular elastics is the Paisley Skull Braids, which are available in blue or black.

Our novelty range includes music themed braces, fishing braces, country sport braces, skull braces, union jack flag braces and our very popular nautical anchor braces. This is a fun way for a person to add a little flair to an outfit and often makes for a great topic of conversation. These can be popular for a themed event, a sports club event or perhaps a day at the races.

With which trousers are the braces worn?

Formal suspenders do not have loops for belts. They have buttons attached to the waist band. The expectation is that with formal pants, suspenders, or just the waistband, size adjusters will be used by the wearer. Pants with belt loop holes can of course be used to wear a belt, or clip-on suspenders can be used. Alternatively, the user can add buttons to the waistband of the pants and wear them with suspenders, leaving the loop holes blank.

X-shape versus Y-shape braces

The type of back brace is determined by how the brace looks from behind when you wear it. Some suspenders form the letter X, others form the letter Y.

X back braces are often preferred by men as they offer a better fit. They come with two clips or button loops in the front and two clips or button loops in the back that you simply attach to your pants. Y-backs, on the other hand, have two clips or button loops at the front and one set at the back, which is why they are often referred to as three clip suspenders.

Whether you go for X back braces or Y back braces, you’ll find that there’s a leather, metal, or plastic hinge at the rear material transition that holds them in place. Obviously leather and metal connectors look better than plastic connectors and that is why we only sell braces with metal or leather connectors.

GS Braces Made in England

Last but not least, we are proud to say that all of our own branded GS braces are manufactured and hand finished in England.

How to Wear Suspenders – Guide to Suits and Suspenders

How to wear suspenders with a suit

Wearing suspenders starts with a history lesson.

In 1820 a British designer named Alfred Thurston began making and selling suspenders from his department store at 27 Panton Street, Haymarket, London. Back then, they were considered underwear to be worn under clothing and should never be seen by the public. These early reproduction suspenders were in high demand as trousers were particularly high in the mid-19th/early 20th century, interfering with the usefulness of belts. Word soon got around and Thurston’s suspenders – or suspenders as we call them in the US today – quickly became the essential accessory for any gentleman tired of his pants falling below his waist.

Fast forward to 1871 when the first US patent for suspenders was granted to a young entrepreneur named Samuel Clemens (later known as Mark Twain). At that time, suspenders were still considered underwear. So when Clemens settled on his product name, Adjustable and Detachable Straps for Garments, his goal was to market something that would attach everything from women’s corsets to men’s panties, essentially a more useful improvement over traditional suspenders.

Around the 1930s, suspenders, much like their contemporary versions, began to be worn over clothing. And throughout the twentieth century, they experienced ups and downs in fashion. Humphrey Bogart wore them in the ’40s, British punks adopted them in the late ’60s, Diane Keaton appropriated them for Annie Hall in the ’70s, and Michael Douglas’ Gordon Gekko brought them back to Wall Street in the late ’70s. 80s Regardless of how “in” or “out” they may be at any given time, they remain an incredibly useful accessory for men looking to improve their tailoring skills, or you know, to keep their pants from falling off.

Choosing the right braces

There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing your braces. The first thing you should know is that there are two different options when choosing a pair of braces. There are those that attach with clips and those that you button onto your pants. The difference may seem small, but it can have a big impact. Secondly, you need to consider the width of the braces and finally how they connect at the back. Read on to understand how to choose the right ones for you.

The main types of braces

Attachable

Lapel braces are often despised, largely because of their association with their even more downtrodden accessory brethren, the lapel tie. And it’s true – every time you use clip-on accessories, you run the risk of being judged by the fashion elite.

However, we don’t like clip-on suspenders for more practical reasons. While the clips allow you to wear them with almost any pair of pants, you’re constantly at the mercy of one of two opposing forces. The metal clips rely on their ability to dig into and grip the fabric to hold their position (and support some of the pant’s weight). Such a force will inevitably damage the fabric of your fine dress pants. On the other hand, if they don’t grip as tightly, there is a risk that one of the clips will come loose during wear. This is an embarrassing development that you should avoid by doing away with clip-on braces altogether.

button on

Buttoned suspenders are (as the name suggests) suspenders that attach to buttons sewn into the inside of your waistband. In our view, they are a clear choice as they are far more purposeful; They won’t break or take your eyes off and (a little less importantly) won’t damage your pants fabrics. Plus, by eliminating the metal clips, you don’t run the risk of illuminating anyone around you with an eye-catching metal glow.

Instead, you simply attach your suspenders to buttons that can be sewn to the inside of your waistband. This is most commonly done with a symmetrical set of buttons sewn onto either side of your pants. Two pairs of buttons in front and often one pair in back. These buttons are there when you want to use your braces and are hidden on the inside if you decide not to.

Remember that every pant you buy from Black Lapel can be personalized with suspender buttons at the waistband, as well as a variety of design features such as cuffs, pleats and pocket styles.

Choice of shape — X, Y, or H

The way your braces connect at the back generally falls into one of three categories. The first (and most common) is “Y” shaped. It is the most common and is usually preferred for the workplace and more formal occasions. The configuration of the “Y” back straps is also what is consistent with the vast majority of pants. Mostly those that have suspender buttons sewn onto the inside of the waistband.

Next comes the “X” rear straps, which is exactly what it sounds like. The straps cross at the back, forming an “X” shape. This style looks a little more informal due to the extra material in the back. And honestly, you don’t often come across the button-on variety as they aren’t aligned with standard button configurations.

Last, and rarest, is the “H”. It can be found on a fireman’s uniform and evokes a certain harness-like vibe. Similar to the “X” back, it will not accommodate most button configurations on pants that have suspender buttons. So you probably shouldn’t go for this one unless you really like the look.

Width selection

When comparing brace widths, there are three main options. First, you can choose a thinner brace, which is typically around 0.75 inches wide. You can also choose a medium brace width, which is usually around 1 inch. And finally, a traditional-style brace is usually set at a width of 1.5 inches.

While these are the three most common suspender widths, you obviously need to make sure you choose the right one for the occasion.

How to wear braces in everyday life

Suspenders have always been a reliable choice among accessory connoisseurs when a little more elegance or a touch of personality is called for.

Relaxed and casual

If you want to wear suspenders in a casual setting or serve mason jar drinks in a hipster-friendly bar, consider wearing skinny 0.75-inch suspenders. You can easily use them with casual pants like dark jeans. Plus, keep it just as casual with a plaid or gingham shirt.

In the office

Aside from keeping your pants from sagging at your next presentation, knowing how to wear drop earrings is a great way to add an extra element to your professional business style. In the office, go for the medium or traditional 1 inch braces. Thin suspenders look too casual in this context. For a more conservative look, choose braces in a classic, dark color like dark maroon, navy, or brown.

Weddings and formal events

For formal occasions (especially when you’re wearing tuxedo pants), suspenders are the most commonly used. When donning braces in these situations, you almost always want to go with the traditional 1.5 inch width. Whether you’re going for a smart black suit or a tuxedo, you should always pair your suspenders with a quality shirt. A white crisp wool tuxedo shirt with French cuffs is always a good choice. This gives your outfit a more formal feel and also allows for eye-catching cufflinks.

Modern weddings can sometimes present opportunities for a bit of variety, so an interesting pattern tucked under the jacket can be a nice touch. Especially if it picks up on the bride’s accessories or flowers – don’t forget to coordinate if you’re part of the wedding party. Tucking groomsmen into matching suspenders creates a unified look and helps them stand out from the other guests.

Do you wear a belt with suspenders?

One last lesson on how to wear braces, Locust. We have to answer the question: do you wear suspenders with a belt? So remember the most important rule: never wear suspenders with a belt. je. One makes the other superfluous, which is why the term “belt and braces” came into being for redundancy in business. In fact, in modern contexts, suspenders are most commonly worn with tuxedo pants, which shouldn’t even have belt loops.

buckled up

From 1820 to 2018, knowing how to wear suspenders was an important part of how men dress stylishly and consciously. Now the torch has been passed to you.

Do you have questions about wearing suspenders? Write it below in the comment section!

INTRODUCTION

Suspenders have made a comeback.

They’re affordable, easy to wear, and a fun addition to your wardrobe. Whether you want to look good at an upcoming wedding, stand out at a formal event, add some flair to your work attire, or jazz up your casual attire, suspenders offer you a colorful and versatile solution for almost any occasion that life chooses your way.

But there is still confusion, above all: Which suspenders are suitable for which occasions? Which colors go with which? Is there a specific width that is correct? Should I choose the clip-on type or the button-on type? Can I wear a belt with my suspenders? How to wear colorful suspenders without looking like a clown?

This guide will answer all of those questions. Plus some you might not know you had.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT TYPE OF BRACES

Suspenders come in two basic types:

1) the type that attaches to your pants (or shorts) with clips

2) the way you button your pants

CLIP ON BRACES

Clip-ons can be clipped to almost any pant or pant, so they’re the more versatile of the two. They are also considered to be a bit more casual and look particularly chic with city shorts, funky jeans and fashionable clothes. To attach them to whatever you’re wearing on the bottom half, start at the back by attaching them to the middle of the waistband. Then pull them forward over your shoulders to attach the remaining clips to the front waistband.

Check out our collection of clip on braces here >

Suspenders with buttons

Button-up suspenders are considered a bit more formal than clip-ons. You will also need pants or jeans that have six buttons hidden on the inside of the waistband for the suspender loops to be buttoned on. If your pants don’t have suspender buttons, you can always attach them, either yourself if you’re skilled or have your tailor do it for you. They should be placed so that they are about 1 inch either side of the back center seam at the back of the waistband – meaning they are 2 inches apart – and about 1 inch below the top of the waistband. In front, tuck them into the waistband about 1 inch from the top and 2 inches apart. When you have them on, your suspenders should fall in a straight line from your shoulder to your waist. Start at the back, after buttoning, put on the pants, pull the suspenders over the shoulders and button them in the front.

View our collection of button-up suspenders here >

brace width

For such a relatively thin piece of fabric, suspenders are sure to inspire some strong opinions, particularly on questions of the “right” width. While subtle changes can dramatically affect your overall look, the easiest rule of thumb to remember is that suspender style occurs on a scale: the thinner the suspender, the more casual the look, while at the broader end of the spectrum they go classic and even formal .

If you want to go beyond that, here is an in-depth article on choosing the perfect brace width >

Y BACK VS. X BACK

When braces cross backwards like the letter “X”, they are known as X-Back. If instead they join around the center of the back and become a single strap, like a “Y,” then they are known as a Y-back. Of the two, Y-Backs are considered more current and trendy. While X-Back has two straps that attach to the back waistband – compared to a Y-Back single strap – unless you have unusual trouble keeping your pants up, the Y-Back is the go-to choice or having sloping shoulders Suspender lovers.

FIT/SIZE

One of the really cool things about braces is how easy it is to adjust the fit to your specific proportions. If the braces are leather, the front strap can be loosened or tightened like a belt: via a buckle and holes. All other braces have a metal clip on the front straps that you simply slide up and down until you get just the right length for your frame.

Learn more about braces features here >

FIVE DIFFERENT WAYS TO WEAR BRACES

FIRST THINGS FIRST – NEVER WEAR BELTED BRACES

Before World War II, the waist of your typical men’s trousers was much higher than it is today, fitting right in with the wearer’s actual waist. To keep their pants up, the boys wore suspenders. However, because of wartime rations, manufacturers found they could save fabric (and therefore money) by lowering the waistbands of pants. At the same time, belts began to replace suspenders to keep pants from falling off – which is why wearing a belt and suspenders at the same time is considered quite a style faux pas. Since they both do the same thing, it’s some kind of function overload, and it doesn’t look right.

So remember the basic rule of skillful wearing of suspenders: regardless of the type of suspenders, you should not wear a belt at the same time. Unconvinced? Here are some more reasons why you should never wear suspenders with a belt >

Suspenders for business

Wearing suspenders at work can be as formal as Michael Douglas’ Gordon Gekko Master of the Financial Universe looks in the Wall Street movie we’re discussing here. Or more mid-century modern panache a la Don Draper (here). If you want to wear suspenders with work attire but aren’t sure how to go about it, start with a pair in a more classic shade (navy, black, taupe) that coordinates with the color of your shoes. This combination brings easy authority to any work look, whether you’re mastering the real world—or a virtual one in The Cloud. To learn more about how to pair suspenders for business, read here >

And here’s what types of ties go well with suspenders >

FOR WEDDINGS & FORMAL EVENTS

Suspenders have long been a staple of a groom’s wedding day attire, which has seen a welcome change from less stuffy to more playful and personal. And often it’s the only thing a groom buys new to take his regular go-to suit with him from aisle to aisle—as in: the aisle. For more wedding suspender tips for the groom, click here. And what’s good for the groom is good for the groomsmen! Don’t miss our top tips for accessorizing your side of the wedding reception with high suspenders (here and here). For more ideas, here are 50 groomsmen in suspenders to inspire you.

For formal occasions in general, make sure to pair your suspenders with a quality shirt – French cuffs are always a good choice as they are always stylish, and you can also add some eye-catching cufflinks to your look. Click here for more ideas on how to pair your suspenders with accessories like elegant pocket squares and bow ties. Of course, the quintessence of the formal ensemble is the tuxedo. We’ve got you covered (of course) right here.

Learn more about how to wear suspenders for weddings and formal occasions here >

IN THE CITY

Almost every list of the “world’s most stylish self-respecting men” includes Cary Grant. Especially his iconic gray suit look in the Hitchcock classic North by Northwest (which we review here). Like any style icon, Grant found the “uniform” that best suited his body, stuck with it, and added on-trend flair with accessories. Like suspenders. As a rule of thumb, non-work suspenders tend to be a little skinnier, but if you wear jeans from head to toe, a wider suspender may be just the ticket (you can find more suspenders here). Finally, here are 10 suspender looks by “braces type” to inspire your own casual adventures in stylish suspenders.

DEPEND

This trend has continued to gain momentum as suspenders crept out of the corridors of power and into hipster hangouts and trendy bars around the world. And with good reason: suspenders are an easy (and budget-friendly) way to make a custom style statement. From denim-on-denim outfits to plaid to preppy, we discuss the most helpful guides to casual suspenders here >

ON WOMEN

The world’s most stylish women love to “borrow” (okay, steal) from menswear to add that extra edge and pizzazz to their own look. And what could be sexier than a sexy woman rocking stockings? Here are 50 women who look amazing in garter belts. Also, be sure to check out our expertly edited mini style guide for women in suspenders and see if you agree with our thoughts on men’s and women’s suspenders and the difference between them (hint: not much).

A FASHION EDITOR’S TIPS: Get more suspender inspiration

Suspenders that come with clips allow most pants or shorts in your closet to be suspender-friendly. For the most stylish look, choose a pair with a relaxed fit. If you want to wear a button-up pair, you (or your dry cleaner’s tailor) can always sew buttons into your waistband. Alternatively, you can buy pants (or shorts) that already come with suspender buttons. Here are some of our tips for stylish pants and braces accessories:

How to wear suspenders of any color

From bright fuchsia to not-so-soft yellow to army green, here are our most helpful guides and cool outfit combos to wear any color of suspenders like a style pro:

INSPIRATION: Suspenders on celebrities and in movies

Celebrities look so stylish because they have some of the most talented fashion experts and stylists on their payroll. Therefore, they are a wonderful source of style inspiration, as are the films. For some of our favorite movie moments in suspenders, plus a wealth of ideas to inspire you, check out these:

Sew suspender buttons to pants

Buying suspenders is satisfying for those looking to transition from constantly wearing belts and for those looking to add suspenders to their outfit options. By now you have seen many style options for clip-on and button-on styles.

You have decided to wear button-on suspenders – either for everyday wear, as business attire or for a special occasion. Now all you have to do is make sure your pants have buttons to attach the suspenders to. You can quickly check all the pants you want to wear with your button-up suspenders. Generally, one or more pants with suspender buttons saves you from adding buttons. However, chances are you have buttonless pants, and that means you need to add them before you can enjoy your suspenders. If that sounds a little daunting, read on and we’ll tell you exactly what you need to know to sew on suspender buttons the right way!

Choose your suspender button method

First things first – make sure the pants you plan to wear the suspenders with don’t already have buttons sewn in! Assuming this isn’t the case, decide which method you prefer to attach suspender buttons to your pants:

Take your pants to a tailor. Make it yourself with a needle and thread. Make it yourself with bachelor buttons (no sewing).

Of course, the easiest way is to take your pants to a tailor. Any tailor knows the proper placement and techniques for attaching suspender buttons to your pants. You can expect to pay around $10-$15 for this service. If you buy your pants unhemmed from a shop that has an in-house tailor, you can simply have the buttons attached when you hem your pants.

However, if you’re more of a “do-it-yourself” type or the idea of ​​paying someone $10-15 to just sew six buttons on a pair of pants sounds ridiculous to you, then button sewing is that right way to go. Check out what you need for successful suspender button placement.

Supplies and button placement

If you want to use the needle and thread approach, you will need the following materials:

Six suspender buttons per pant

The buttons should be 5/8 inch wide buttons with four holes

The sides of the buttons should be rounded rather than straight to minimize friction at the buttonholes on the suspenders/mustache (We sell these buttons if you need them.)

While not critical since the buttons are not visible, it’s a good idea to choose a button color that generally matches the color of the pant or the pant’s lining

A needle

Thread a color that matches the color of the pants or lining

A tape measure or ruler

chalk

A pant

The general idea is to sew the buttons on the pants so that:

Best supports the “fall” of the pants Is not visible Is most comfortable Looks right how far apart or close together the two ends of the “mustache” are when the suspenders are worn. Improperly placed buttons can result in an uncomfortable fit or poor support of the pleats or pant lines

Before we start with more detailed instructions, there is a big picture question to answer, whether the buttons should be sewn on the inside or outside of the trousers. Suspender buttons used to be sewn to the outside of the trousers. And while you still occasionally see this approach today, the more accepted current approach is to sew the buttons on the inside. Although no one knows exactly why this changed, one theory is that in the past when people wore a suit with suspenders and a waistcoat, the waistcoats were commonly worn over the suspenders and therefore the buttons were not visible. When waistcoats disappeared, in most cases the buttons went to the inside of the pants.

Basically having suspender buttons on the inside or outside is a personal choice, but most people place them on the inside.

Step 1: Determine where to place the buttons on the front of the pants

The buttons attach to the “mustaches” at the end of the suspenders. The buttons attach to the “mustaches” at the end of the suspenders.

There are several methods to determine where to place the buttons on the front of the pants. The first is the traditional “by the book” method. The second is a more personalized approach that we often recommend that may be more responsive to body differences and personal preferences. Choose the method that you think works best for you.

Method 1: Lay the pants on a flat surface. The suspenders attach to four buttons (two on the left and two on the right) via a “mustache” or “bunny ear”, which is simply a strip of leather or fabric with a buttonhole at each end. If the pants are pleated, the frontmost button on each side should be placed on the inside waistband of the pants, just above the crease and about 1 inch from the top. If the trousers are not pleated, the buttons should go directly over the crease in the same place.

Use the chalk to mark where the first button on each side will be attached. Then take your tape measure or ruler and mark where you want the second button on each side to go. This should be about 2 ½ to 3 inches in the direction of the side seam from the first button.

Method 2: Since everyone is different, this method will help you determine exactly where the braces will look best on you. If you follow this approach, simply drape the suspenders over your shoulders and hold them across your torso while looking in a mirror. Adjust their position until you get the exact look and position you want, and mark those spots. Make sure both are the same distance from the centerline of the pants. Mark key positions 2 ½ to 3 inches apart, depending on your personal preference.

Step 2: Determine where to place the buttons on the back of the pants

Now direct your attention to the back of the pants. Since buttoned suspenders typically come in Y-back construction, you will sew on two buttons for a single attachment point down the center of your back. The buttons for your suspenders should be placed equally spaced on each side of the center seam, about 2 ½ to 3 inches apart. Take your tape measure and measure 1 ¼ to 1 ½ inches on each side of the center seam and mark the location for each button. This should also be about 1 inch from the top edge of the waistband.

Step 3: Thread the needle

We recommend double threading the needle to speed up the work. To do this, simply pull the thread through the needle until it is the same length on both sides and tie a knot at the end.

Step 4: Sew the buttons to the pants

Holding the button, push the needle down through the fabric and then up through one of the holes in the button. Pull until the knotted end snaps into place. To avoid showing the thread on the outside of the pants, be sure to only push the needle partially through the waistband.

There are generally two layers in the waistband: the waistband cover material and an intermediate layer along with the outer fabric. Be sure to only push the needle through the waistband and interlayer. Make an X pattern, going down through the diagonally opposite hole, then back up through an adjacent hole. Repeat this step seven to eight times per button. Tie the end of the thread in a double knot. Repeat for all six buttons and then you’re done!

A final option for buttoning pants, if you don’t want to take the pants to a tailor or want to use a needle and thread, is to use a set of “no-sew” buttons, sometimes called “bachelor” buttons. ” SuspenderStore carries bachelor buttons in two styles: permanent and movable.

Permanent NoSew buttons Permanent NoSew buttons Movable NoSew buttons Movable NoSew buttons

Permanent no-sew buttons stay on pants once attached. These nifty buttons can be easily hammered onto the pants by pushing the pin side through the material, slipping the button side onto the pin and tapping gently to join the two sides together. Please note that the pin side of the bachelor button is visible on the outside of the pants as a small metal button.

Movable no-sew buttons are easy to put on and take off the pants. They are as permanent or as temporary as you want them to be. Simple and sturdy, they won’t come loose from your pants until you take them off to attach to another pair of pants. They can be worn with the button on the inside or outside of the pants.

One last question and the answer: what to do with the belt loops?

Is there a way to make pants for suspenders even better? yes there is If you want to be right in the staid world of fashion, then take off the belt loops. Assuming you intend to only wear suspenders with the pair of pants you’ve attached buttons to, your jeans, khaki, or tuxedo pants belt loops are now irrelevant. Removing them will make the pants look cleaner.

However, if you prefer to wear the pants with a belt or suspenders, leave the belt loops intact. While this may not be entirely true in the fashion world, as most people don’t wear suspenders, the vast majority of people you meet will either be so enamored with the look of the suspenders themselves that they won’t notice the belt loops, or pay attention the belt loops, but don’t be fashion conscious enough to know that the fashionistas of the world would prefer to remove them.

Some people strike a middle ground here, removing the belt loops from business suits and dress pants and leaving them on pants for more casual wear. The choice is really a matter of personal preference.

Conventional fashion wisdom also tells us not to wear suspenders and a belt at the same time. However, we say to this – “why not?” There are enough people in the world who like to wear a belt and suspenders at the same time that we stock belt clip suspenders that are specifically designed to attach to a belt.

At SuspenderStore we believe that suspenders are an expression of personal style and that one should not limit oneself to how one expresses that style. We particularly like the following quote from Charles Tatum:

“I’ve lied a lot in my time. I lied to men who wore belts. I have lied to men who wore suspenders. But I would never be so stupid as to lie to a man who wears both a belt and suspenders.”

And if you need extra support because of your build or because you’re carrying a heavy load on your belt, wearing braces and a belt can give you the extra support you need.

Finally, we applaud your decision to try button-on suspenders. We think you’ll enjoy the traditional looks and the excellent support they offer. If you have additional questions about suspender styles and options, be sure to review our other style guides or call us at 1-800-393-4508. We are sure that you will find our advice “right to the point”!

5

If you sew the button on the outside of the pants, you can tangle the fibers or sew all the way through the fabric.[11]

You don’t have to push the needle all the way through the fabric. You can simply catch the fibers with the tip of the needle and then pull the thread through until it is taut. This is especially important if you want the thread to be hidden on the inside of the pants.

Shoulder straps worn to hold pants up

This article is about the clothing accessory that holds up pants or skirts. For the accessory for holding up stockings, see Suspender Belt

A young man wearing braces with handle fasteners, 2013

A man with buttoned suspenders, 2006.

Suspenders (American English, Canadian English) or suspenders (British English, Australian English) are cloth or leather straps worn over the shoulders to hold up skirts or trousers. Straps can be either fully elastic or just elasticated at the attachment ends, and most straps are made of woven fabric that forms an X or Y shape at the back. Suspenders are usually attached to skirts and pants with clips or buttons with leather tabs at the ends.

In British English, a garter belt, or suspenders for short, is a garment used to hold up stockings. This is called the Garter Belt in American English.

history [edit]

There have been several precursors to suspenders over the past 300 years, but modern suspenders were first popularized as “suspenders” in 1822 by a London haberdasher, Albert Thurston. They were once worn almost everywhere, due to the high cut of mid-19th and early 20th-century skirts and trousers, which made a belt impractical. During the nineteenth century suspenders were sometimes called galluses.[3][4] Samuel Clemens, known for his work as author Mark Twain, patented “Adjustable and Detachable Straps for Garments” (ADSG), becoming one of the first to receive a US patent for suspenders in 1871.[5]

Having lost popularity during World War I as men became accustomed to uniform belts, suspenders were still common attire in the 1920s. Due to its “underwear” image[6], some men switched to belts in the 1930s as vests (USA/Canada) or vests with hidden suspenders were worn less frequently. This was also signaled by the switch in the position to secure buttons from the outside of the waistband inwards. Life Magazine reported in 1938 that 60% of American men chose belts over suspenders. Although the return of fuller-cut trousers in the 1940s revived suspenders, they did not resume dominating the belt to the same extent. However, in the UK they remained the norm to be worn with suits and suit trousers.

fashion [edit]

While suspenders have been in and out of style over the last century (generally preferred to alternate with belts), there has been a brief resurgence of interest, possibly due to the styles featured in films such as Wall Street. [Citation needed] Many business people, including news anchors (like Larry King in the United States)[8] and professionals[9] such as lawyers, still wear braces.

Skinny clip-on style suspenders are also a typical part of skinhead and, to a lesser extent, punk fashion. In skinhead and punk fashion, suspenders are typically between 3/4″ and 1″ wide.

The materials used to make braces have also changed over time, with newer additions such as rayon, a durable synthetic fiber, now being offered. Generally a high quality elastic webbing rayon is the fabric used to make suspenders, with silk webbing or tubular suiting fabric from mills such as Dugdale Bros of England also being used.

Suspenders can be measured in a number of ways to ensure the correct fit. To measure suspenders accurately, start measuring from the back pant line, then cross over the opposite shoulder to the front pant line. Add a few extra inches for adjustments if needed.[10]

usage [edit]

Elegant suspenders of good quality were traditionally seen as dress for clerks or the upper or upper middle class. They were made to be fastened to skirts or pants by buttons sewn onto the waistband.[8] There are relatively few current manufacturers in the UK, but the classic ‘Reform’ button-on end is also fairly common in the United States.

In traditional or formal settings, wearing a belt and suspenders at the same time is considered a faux pas, although historically this has not always been the case. Also, suspenders were traditionally considered underwear and as such were considered inappropriate to be seen.[6] From the time of their invention until World War II, the waistcoat or a sweater or cardigan for coolness in summer covered suspenders to prevent indecency. Similarly, sweaters and jackets kept shirt sleeves hidden. However, in the interwar period men began to remove jackets in public and so over time this sensibility was eroded. Perhaps only in Great Britain do some “die-hards” still consider it “gauche”[8], for example to wear brightly colored suspenders without a jacket. In general, it is now considered acceptable fashion on both sides of the Atlantic for men’s suspenders to be seen.

The suspender pants have buttons to fasten the leather tabs; These can either be on the outside, traditionally, or on the inside of pants that don’t have belt loops. For belt loops, buttons would be sewn to the inside of the waistband. Such trousers may also have a high back in a fishtail shape, although this is not so common now; [8] This style can also have an additional adjustable strap at the back as well as the two side adjusters that are attached to most beltless pants. Buttons should be placed about 3 to 3.5 inches (7.6 to 8.9 cm) apart, equidistant from the back seam. On the front, the first button should be placed over the main pleat or crease, with the second button spaced about 3 to 3.5 inches (7.6 to 8.9 cm) apart. It is important to place the buttons in the correct position as pants with suspenders should be a bit loose to hang properly.

In the 2000s, it became fashionable for some younger women to wear suspenders, a style that evolved from mod styles in the late 1960s to punk rock and skinhead styles in the late 1970s through the 1980s. A particular representative of this fashion was the Eurythmics singer Annie Lennox, whose fashion style, with her dark suit and red suspenders, resembled cross-dressing as a male character.

Braces, braces, braces – call it what you will, with the new braces from BeWooden you will make a convincing impression. Check out the following facts about this cool accessory.

Where do braces come from?

At BeWooden we were surprised how many names exist for this add-on and we are sure that there are many other additional synonyms. We were curious about the reasons behind who made the first braces, so we did a little research. Albert Thurston first invented modern suspenders in 1820. While suspenders have flown in and out of style over the past few centuries, there has been a brief resurgence of interest, possibly due to the styles featured in movies like The Wolf of Wall Street. Many business people, news anchors and professionals such as lawyers still wear braces.

A special place in a gentleman’s wardrobe

However, it was not easy for them to position themselves in today’s fashion world – underestimated and always trendy. Nowadays, they are not only popular with true gentlemen, but also with bloggers all over the world.

Their history begins in the 18th century, when men wore strips of cloth that were simply attached to the buttons of their pants. At that time, this very popular and stylish accessory was still considered underwear and should not be visible at any price.

It only lasted a few decades and good linings were made of fine leather, tweed or even silk.

In the 1820s, British designer Alberto Thurston created the kind of braces we know today. The gentlemen of that time did not have many options. Fashion invented pants with a high waist, so the ribbons used were no longer sufficient. Suspenders became a necessity for every man. Since then, Albert Thurston’s name has become synonymous with guaranteed quality in the world of men’s accessories and his one-of-a-kind suspenders were destined to be worn by kings, princes, presidents and businessmen around the world.

High-waste pants were ringing

The collapse for braces came in the late 19th century. The trend for high-necked trousers slowly faded away, so that suspenders no longer worked. The First World War was their undoing. Men gradually forgot to wear their suspenders not only with military uniforms, but also because of the persistent views of this accessory as part of a garment that should not be visible at all costs.

The Canadians herald the beginning of the development from a purely practical feature to a decorative accessory that is appreciated by gentlemen all over the world. A very unconventional addition, they became attractive to fashion magazines in both Europe and America, and since the 80s they have been immersed in the fashion world with the status of a sensual and unique detail.

Today they are most popular in the United States and Great Britain, where they are often used to complete the typical gentleman’s style, while in other countries suspenders are still thought to be very old-fashioned. However, they are appearing more and more frequently on blogs around the world and serve as a fashion statement, worn purely over a shirt, without a jacket and with a bow tie or tie, giving the outfit a fresh look and elegance.

heroandvillainstyle.com may make money or products from the companies mentioned in this post through affiliate partnerships.

There’s a lot to talk about when it comes to the braces and belt (or “braces and belt,” if you’re a British homeboy) debate. Both work in different ways to achieve the same goal of holding up your pants, but look different and are used in different dress codes.

Suspenders transfer the tension of holding your pants up to your shoulders, simply holding them up. In contrast, a belt tightens your waistband, holding tension around your waist and reducing the gap. Suspenders are also more formal than belts.

In some cases and dress codes there are hard and fast rules as to whether you should wear suspenders or a belt, but other times it really just comes down to personal preference. However, depending on your priorities, this may be the better form of holding your pants up.

By the end of this guide you will be able to decide if belts or suspenders are best for your use and know the situations where this is the commonly accepted method of lifting pants – let’s get into that.

fast track

The ultimate braces vs. belt comparison

As mentioned, both have the ultimate goal of keeping your pants up, but work in different ways:

Belt

I’m sure you’re already familiar with this high-tech device, but a belt is a leather strap, usually with lots of holes in the side, that you thread through your belt loops and fasten by looping the strap through a buckle, and sliding the buckle through Hole.

This buckle tightens the belt tightly around your waist – since it’s attached to your pants, it similarly cinches the fabric, reducing any gaps. Reducing this gap allows the pants to sit higher and tighter and wear like pants that better fit your waist size.

Important:

All the tension stays around your waist.

Your waist is constantly moving, allowing a belt to fall off and adjust.

It actually reduces the “gap” of your suspender belt.

suspenders

Suspenders are elastic straps that attach to your pants with either buttons or metal buckles and are placed over your shoulders. This transfers the stress of pulling your pants up like a belt, away from the waist and onto your shoulders, which sit at a constant height.

Important:

All the tension is transferred to your shoulders.

Your shoulders stay level, so the braces stay in the same place.

If your waistband is too big, suspenders won’t help narrow the gap—they just keep your pants up. So if you have a large waist band there will still be a large gap, unlike a belt which narrows it.

This nifty table compares the two head-to-head and adds them together to determine an “outright winner”:

Category Winner Style Tie How well do they hold up your pants? Suspenders How comfortable are they? Tie Do they keep your shirt tucked in? Tie How adjustable are they? Suspenders Which is better for your health? Suspenders Which is better for taller gentlemen? Suspenders What is easier and more available? Belt Which one is more convenient to use? Belt What is more versatile? Belt

Total for braces: 4

Total for belt: 3

So it looks like, judging by the numbers this arbitrary ranking system generates, braces are better than belts!

But we both know it’s not that easy – depending on how important these qualities are to you, you can choose one.

Let’s quickly dive into each category.

Belt vs Suspenders When It Comes to Style (Tie)

Both suspenders and belts have the potential to be super stylish.

Suspenders are stylish because:

They make your outfit more interesting when you take off your jacket.

They are less common than a belt.

When you wear a pair with buttons, people know you went to the trouble of having them sewn on and see you as more style-conscious.

They maintain a clean visual line and are generally more elegant than a belt.

A belt, especially in casual outfits, gives you a great opportunity to add texture, color and interest:

Because they’re more common, they’re still stylish without being flashy.

You can bring in more textures and variants like canvas and suede.

However, belts visually cut you in half, which doesn’t look as seamless as suspenders.

How well do they each hold up their pants? (suspenders)

Because your shoulders are in the same position throughout the day, suspenders keep your pants consistently up throughout the day.

Belts can drop down your waist depending on how tight you have them. This means you may have to pull them up.

How comfortable are braces compared to belts? (Tie)

suspenders

Suspenders take the tension off your waist, giving you more room and comfort in that area.

While I agree, some people don’t like the feel of garter belts over their shoulders. Even when seated you can sometimes feel the rear leather connector and leather loops.

Belt

If you’re anything like me, you hate pulling something around your waist — it can be uncomfortable, and when it hits a bone, sometimes painful.

This problem is exacerbated if your waistband is way too big for you, as the excess material will be wrinkled and pushed into you.

This cannot happen with suspenders.

So, to answer the question, “are braces more comfortable”, yes, in general they are, but not for everyone.

Do you keep your shirt tucked in? (Tie)

With braces, the three connection points create a barrier for the shirt and make it difficult for the shirt to come loose at those points.

With a belt, buckling the waistband can help tuck the shirt in better as there is more resistance.

How adjustable are braces compared to belts? (suspenders)

Suspenders are fully and easily adjustable to any height.

Each strap is independent so you can adjust it to your liking even if you have a sloping shoulder.

Standard straps have holes in standard increments, although “ratchet straps” use a track that can allow for more precise adjustments

Are braces or belts better for your health? (suspenders)

Because they actually make you stand taller, braces are said to have a number of health benefits:

Better circulation and blood flow

Better posture (resulting in maintaining good skeletal structure over time)

However, belts don’t really have positive health connotations — but if they’re too tight, they’re potentially supposed to restrict blood flow and compress internal organs. yuck

Which are better for taller gentlemen? (suspenders)

Suspenders are more advantageous for taller men.

This is because high-waist pants tend to be more comfortable for taller men, and it’s more comfortable and easier to wear your pants higher with suspenders.

Which are easier to buy? ( Belt )

suspenders

It can be difficult to get good braces in the specific material, width, fastening mechanism, and style you want.

You’ll probably have to go to a specialty store, and even then I’m having trouble finding the kind of style I want. In addition, good quality suspenders are generally more expensive than most belts.

If you like wearing your suspenders with button loops, you’ll have to go to the trouble of sewing the buttons on, or finding someone to sew them on.

Belt

Belts can be found and bought pretty much anywhere, in many styles, shapes, widths, and materials.

Also, since they are more accessible, this usually results in lower prices.

Also, your pants probably already have belt loops, so plug and play.

Which are more convenient to use? ( Belt )

Suspenders can be a bit fiddly to put on and generally take longer than belts. In addition, to go to the toilet, you have to take your suspenders off your shoulders, which can create very uncomfortable situations.

Belts are easy to put on, fasten and remove.

Which are more versatile? ( Belt )

Suspenders are usually only worn in formal situations, like suits and tuxedos, so aren’t very versatile. While you can wear braces casually, you really need to know what you’re doing and have the confidence to pull them off.

Belts, on the other hand, can easily be worn casually and formally.

Now that I’ve covered each point of comparison in more detail, this next section goes into specific dress codes and whether you should wear a belt or suspenders – there are some instances where you should and shouldn’t, regardless of your preference!

When should you wear a belt or suspenders?

My rule of thumb:

Wear suspenders in formal situations, e.g. B. suits.

Wear belts for casual OR formal occasions.

However, style icons like Daniel Craig have managed to ditch suspenders with casual items like a leather jacket and t-shirt.

But you’re probably not Daniel Craig (and if you are, hi big fan).

Let’s go into some details.

Should you wear suspenders WITH a belt?

Some people may have childhood trauma from having their pants pulled down in front of their class, and as a result they fasten their pants tightly with a belt and suspenders (joke).

But should you wear a belt and braces at the same time?

You should only use one accessory to hold your pants. So you should wear either a belt OR suspenders, not both at the same time.

It doesn’t really make sense to wear more than one accessory to do the same job; It’s like wearing a tie pin and tie bar to hold your tie in place – pointless.

The only reason you would wear suspenders and a belt at the same time is if you were working some kind of construction job and would use suspenders to hold your pants up and a belt to put on your tools.

Should you wear a belt or suspenders with a suit?

Can you wear a belt with a suit? Absolutely. In fact, I’d be very surprised if you hadn’t done it before.

Can you wear suspenders with a suit? Yes.

But what is better?

I’m stuck in the braces camp because:

They ensure a clean line.

They are a more formal piece of clothing and you wouldn’t normally wear them with a casual outfit. So the only occasion to wear them is formal wear, which you should probably take advantage of.

All of the above convenience and health benefits.

However, others prefer the visual element of a belt with a suit.

However, my recommendation may vary depending on the type of suit you are wearing:

If you prefer to wear more modern suits or take off your jacket frequently, you might prefer a belt.

But if, like me, you’re into traditional styling, braces might be more appropriate.

Should you wear a belt or suspenders with a vest or waistcoat?

It’s a widely accepted fashion faux pa to wear a belt with a vest because “the belt ruins the line of a three-piece suit.”

So, again, you should wear suspenders with a vest as it helps to create a streamlined look.

However, provided your vest is long enough to cover it and you’re not wearing a large, clunky and obtrusive belt, I wouldn’t consider wearing a belt with a vest to be a huge problem.

Should you wear a belt or suspenders with a tuxedo or tuxedo?

Since tuxedo pants should have side adjusters, it is accepted that when wearing a black tie a man does not need to wear any other pant support accessory.

But if you need extra support, a man should traditionally wear “white moire suspenders” with a tuxedo or tuxedo.

The white color adds to the understated nature of the garment and blends in with the shirt when the jacket is removed.

Additionally, according to the “Belt or Suspenders with Waistcoat” guide, you should wear suspenders with a tuxedo and not a belt, as a black tie requires waist coverage.

And that’s a good thing, because if your pants are side-adjustable, they don’t have belt loops!

Suspenders vs belts for work

I’ve worn braces at work for a long time, so I can tell you it’s possible.

For wearing suspenders to work

Although my job in the suit shop in the apparel department was very atypical, since my co-workers all wore them, I basically had to run marathons for people, so the perk of keeping my pants up all the time really paid off.

Against wearing suspenders to work

In jobs that not everyone knows about, wearing suspenders can come across as snobbish; Unfortunately, you must exercise your discretion.

And there’s the added problem that there are awkward bathroom breaks too.

Verdict

When it comes to deciding whether to wear suspenders or a belt for work, I would recommend wearing a belt if you work in casual attire or if suspenders have a stigma in your line of work. If you wear a suit every day and feel confident, you can try braces.

But belts are pretty much accepted everywhere, so you can never go wrong with them.

Conclusion

So we’ve covered the ‘are braces better than a belt’ debate, the benefits of each brace and which one you should wear in certain situations.

For me, I would say that suspenders are superior to belts in almost every respect. They look better, do their job better and let’s not forget the comfort factor and the health benefits that come with it.

Still, I wear them both; Suspenders in all formal situations and belts in casual situations – I think the advantages of both methods lend themselves to any dress code.

But now it’s up to you to decide what’s right for you. Use this item and unleash your belts or suspenders.

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