How to Attach Stockings to Garter Straps (Plus Pro Tips)

Gartered lingerie is the ultimate symbol of sex appeal by highlighting sexy legs and giving you a gorgeous look that always commands attention.

It not only serves the purpose of holding up stockings but most importantly it adds an instant sexy element to whatever style of lingerie you are wearing. When you wear gartered lingerie, your special someone will know you’ve taken the extra time to look sexy and seductive.

1. Make Adjustments

Start with your garter straps in the longest setting so that you do not have to work with any tension while attempting to attach the stockings. Open all the clips beforehand – this way you can release the clip whilst seeing them.

2. Release Rubber Grip from Clip

The garter clip consists of two parts – the rubber backing (grip) and the metal “ring”. The rubber grip can slide up – which will cause it to release, and down – to hold firmly in place. Before trying to attach your stockings first understand the mechanics of the clip so that you can do it even without having to look, like closing your bra behind your back.

3. Put on Gartered Item

Make sure to purchase a garter belt or gartered lingerie that is the correct fit. Most gartered lingerie have shoulder straps which will help secure your garment in place, while garter belts need to fit snugly as the tension from the straps can pull it down. Contact us if you are unsure of the correct size and fit.

The simplest way to put on a garter belt is to rotate it so that the hook and eye closure is facing the front and then rotate it backwards.

4. Put on Stockings

Once you are happy with the fit and placement of your garter, put on your stockings. As a beginner it is best to opt for fishnet stockings as they can be manoeuvred without easily tearing since nylon styles are very delicate. Make sure to get stockings in the correct size as you want a smooth look and nothing should be bulging out from your thighs. At Sexy Curves we don’t believe in a “one size fits all” and that is why we stock legwear in multiple sizes.

Hold the top of your stocking in both hands and ruche the sides until you have reached the “toe” of your stockings. Place your feet in the “toe” and slide your hands up while holding the stockings.
Place your stockings at the desired height.

5. “Sandwich” Stocking and Close the Clip

Once the rubber backing has slid up to release, sandwich the top of your stocking between the grip and the clip. Push the rubber nib (circular protruding part) forward into the large “ring” part of the clip with the stocking still in between the two parts.

Then, slide the rubber backing into the smaller ring and ensure it is securely in place. Start with the front clips and make sure they are straight. Feel around to find the back straps and while holding it, slide it down to where it will meet the stocking top. This will make it easier to keep it straight. Repeat the process to attach the clip to the stockings. For different ways to clip your back straps read the PRO TIPS section.

It may take a few attempts to get the straps straight and the stockings so hold firmly in place without releasing but it does get easier over time. Hang in there, it will be totally worth it!

6. Adjust Tension of Garter Straps

Once you have clipped your stockings firmly in place you’ll need to adjust your garter straps length. Adjust the front straps while standing up to ensure they are slightly tensioned as to not create a bulge. Do not tension too much or they might pop open once you move.

For the back straps make sure to stand and sit – as once you sit the tension will increase, so factor that in when adjusting. The back straps will usually need to be longer than the front to accommodate your bum.

7. The Big Debate

Your panty should go on the inside of your garter, right? Well, it depends.

If you would like to partner to remove your stockings as part of your play or do a little strip tease then I recommend wearing your panty under your gartered item as you plan on removing them anyway.
But if you prefer to keep your stockings attached throughout your most intimate moments it is easiest to put on your panties over your garter so once it is removed you still have your stockings nicely attached.

8. Pro Tips

Now that we covered the basics of attaching stockings to your garter bear in mind a few more things.

If you really struggle to get the back clips attached, you can attach the clips to the back on the stocking, put the stocking on your leg and then close the garter belt behind your back.
You can also try to clip the back straps to your stockings by rotating your leg – then you can see what you are doing or by sitting and extending your leg, if the strap length allows you to.

Any stocking can be attached to a garter clip, however, stockings that are hold ups (with the inner silicone band) can be a bit trickier as they tend to grip to the rubber part of the clip and, stockings that have a back seam will need a lot of adjusting to get the “seam” straight and so steer clear of those if you are a beginner.

Garter belts come with four and six clips. Most items come with 4 clips as they are meant for short term wear and will be quicker to put on. Opt for 6 clips if you are wearing them for longer periods of time under a dress for instance.

Gartered items can be intimidating for beginners, but with these step by step tips and a little practice you’ll be a pro in no time!

By Priscilla Olivier