On a day that is all about being the spotlight - a voluminous gown, the public profession of vows and the anxiety-inducing first dance, a romantic garter is a little somethin' somethin’ a bride can keep all to herself.
Garters are sensual garments that the betrothed can opt to wear during their nuptials. Typically crafted from lace, silk or tulle and in pastel tones such as ivory or pale blue, the thigh-high lingerie is an alluring piece to sport under the wedding dress.
The tradition of wearing the frilled bands stems back to the Middle Ages. Brides adorned their legs with a singular garter which was to be removed by the groom (using his hands or teeth) during the wedding ceremony and tossed into the crowd of bachelors. The bachelor who caught the garter was deemed to be the next one to marry, forming a parallel tradition to the iconic bouquet toss.
While garters are conventionally used to support stockings, the petite piece of lingerie also bears a more antiquated symbolism. The removal of the garter mirrored the deflowering of the bride when consummating the marriage. Safe to say, this outdated practice has very much been cancelled by feminism.
Guests were also keen to walk away from the wedding with the bride's garter as during the 15th century, it was believed that taking an article of the bride's clothing would bring good luck.
Considering there are countless options of beautiful garters on offer today, we say forget that. Brands such as Bluebella, Agent Provocateur and Fruity Booty house ethereal garters to cherish forever - the latter has even created a piece that doubles up as an on-trend scrunchie.
Whether you want to add a dash of sex appeal to your modest bridal attire or tap into tradition, there are plenty of glamorous garters to get the party started on the big day
Browse the edit below to discover the best garters to add to your bridal ensemble.
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Fruity Booty Campino Garter
Fruity Booty’s Campino Garter is a two-for-one take on wedding night attire. The lace garter doubles up as a scrunchie, for when a pretty ponytail is preferred.
Buy now £24.00, Fruity Booty
Bluebella Ivory & Blue Bridal Garter in Lace
A simple lace garter will instantly inject sex appeal into your bridal attire. Bluebella’s ivory number features a satin blue bow for some added coquette charm.
Buy now £12.00, Bluebella
Champagne & Silk Bride Garter
Spell it out for all to see. Champagne & Silk’s tongue-in-cheek Bride Garter is a modern take on traditional floral garter designs. Embellished with sparkling crystal detailing, the slogan piece makes for a playful pick.
Buy now £8.00, Etsy
The Wedding Garter Co Nude Lace Garter With Champagne Bow
A classic choice for classy women, this wisp-like nude garter by The Wedding Garter Co is a failsafe option. Complete with a regal bow and a coordinating rose gold stone, the item adds a cheeky twist to your wedding wardrobe.
Buy now £42.00, NOTHS
Agent Provocateur Lindie Garter
Allow the statement flower motif embroidery of Agent Provocateur’s Lindie Garter to caress your leg with style. The beautifully intricate garter is the perfect bridal gift, showcasing glistening bugle beads exclusive to the brand as well as silk-coated elastics.
Buy now £60.00, Agent Provocateur
Mabelicious Bridal Embroidered Tulle Lace Bridal Garter Something Blue
Let your garter be your something blue with Mabelicious Bridal’s decorative piece. It is finely crafted from frothy tulle in cream and powder blue tones. Floral lace and petite bow ribbon detailing make for a deeply feminine touch.
Buy now £27.50, NOTHS
HAH One And Done Garter
Opt for a hard-working, double-duty accessory with HAH‘s One And Done Garter which doubles up as a hairband. Slip the versatile garment on your thigh for the main nuptials and restyle it as a lace headband for the afterparty.
Buy now £14.00, Free People
Agent Provocateur Skylee Waspie
It may boast a higher price point, but for good reason. Agent Provocateur’s Skylee Waspie is embellished with decadent detailing. The 3D iridescent flowers and intricate Swiss embroidery bloom across air-light white tulle. Added style points go to the silk-bound boning and silver tones.
Buy now £90.00, Agent Provocateur
Gigi & Olive A Hint of Pink Garter
Feel your prettiest in pink. If you already have your something blue sorted, then you can experiment with the colourway of your garter. Gigi & Olive’s lace piece is not only made-to-order and so makes for a more mindful purchase, but the covetable item features two small pink bows to wear during your hen, wedding and honeymoon.
Buy now £25.00, Gigi & Olive
Silk Garters Ava Vintage Wedding Garter
With timeless details like the web-like lace edging, intricate applique and hand-stitched pearls and crystals, you can be sure that this is a style that will stand the test of time. The vintage-inspired Ava garter is available in a diverse range of sizes including plus size. The versatile adornment even features a blue pearl for your something blue.
Buy now £54.99, Silk Garters
