Prior to the 1920's, the manner in which most men held up their trousers was suspenders. Belt loops did not exist yet and belts during this time were purely decorative. Prevent unsightly trouser sagging with one of our suspenders!
Our Suspenders give you that proper 19th century image and look of sophistication, and also make a smart retro addition to a modern outfit.
Standard and Short length suspenders are sure to cover the requirements for any man. Have no fear if your trousers don't have the necessary buttons: we carry clip-on suspenders as well.
Please browse our line, and contact us if you have any questions!
Why should I wear suspenders? Why choose suspenders instead of a belt?
Suspenders offer several advantages over belts, including superior comfort by distributing weight across the shoulders rather than constricting at the waist. They allow pants to hang more elegantly with a cleaner drape, eliminate the bulge of a belt buckle under jackets, and provide a more comfortable option for those with a fuller midsection or who sit for long periods.
What is the rule with suspenders?
The primary rule with suspenders is never to wear them with a belt, as they serve the same function of holding up your pants. Additionally, suspenders should be worn with pants that have proper attachment points (buttons or special tabs), and they should complement rather than exactly match your outfit.
How do I know what size suspenders to get?
To determine the right size suspenders, measure from the back center of your waistband, over your shoulder, to the front of your waistband while standing straight. Most suspenders are adjustable within a range, with standard adult sizes typically fitting heights between 5'5" and 6'2", while tall sizes accommodate those over 6'2".
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Do suspenders go over or under the vest?
Suspenders should always be worn under a vest or waistcoat, as they are considered undergarments in formal wear. The vest should completely cover the suspenders, maintaining a clean, traditional appearance in formal attire.
Why do suspenders cross in the back?
Suspenders cross in the back to provide better weight distribution and to prevent them from slipping off the shoulders. The X-shape creates tension that helps suspenders maintain their position while evenly supporting the weight of the pants across the shoulders and upper back.
What's the difference between Y-back and X-back suspenders?
Y-back suspenders have straps that merge into a single strap in the back, creating a Y shape, while X-back suspenders cross in an X pattern. Y-backs are considered more formal and are standard with tuxedos and suits, whereas X-backs provide better support and stability, making them traditionally preferred for work wear and more casual applications.
How do you care for and store suspenders?
To care for suspenders, hang them full-length on a proper hanger when not in use, spot clean as needed, and avoid machine washing which can damage elastic and hardware. For storage, suspenders should be hung or rolled rather than folded sharply, with leather components occasionally conditioned and elastic components kept away from heat sources that could degrade their resilience.
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Why are suspenders not used anymore?
Suspenders became less common as casual wear gained popularity and lower-rise pants became standard, but they have never completely disappeared. Their decline corresponded with changes in men's physiques, fashion trends favoring slimmer silhouettes, and the belt's convenience, though suspenders continue to be used in formal wear and as vintage accessories, and are experiencing periodic revivals.
Are clip-on suspenders bad?
Clip-on suspenders are considered less formal and traditional than button-attached varieties, but they're not inherently "bad" for casual settings. For formal occasions and proper tailored clothing, button suspenders are preferred for their superior functionality, aesthetic integration with fine clothing, and their inability to damage fabric like clips potentially can.
What type of pants are best for suspenders?
Pants best suited for suspenders are those with a higher rise that sit at your natural waist, with either buttons already installed or loops for clip-ons. Trousers with a fuller cut complement suspenders particularly well, as do those made from heavier fabrics like wool, which benefit from the even distribution of weight that suspenders provide.
Should suspenders match pants or shoes?
Suspenders should complement rather than exactly match either pants or shoes, though they traditionally coordinate better with leather accessories like shoes and watchbands. For formal wear, conservative colors like black, navy, or burgundy work best, while more casual outfits allow for creative color coordination with other accessories or subtle elements in your attire.
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Should suspenders be loose or tight?
Suspenders should be adjusted to hold your pants at the intended waist position without sagging, yet without creating uncomfortable pressure on your shoulders. Properly fitted suspenders will feel slightly taut when standing straight, with just enough tension to keep trousers positioned at your natural waist while allowing comfortable movement.
What is the old name for suspenders?
The old name for suspenders is "braces," a term still commonly used in British English today. Originally called galluses in early America, these terms reflect the long history of this garment accessory, with "braces" emphasizing their function of bracing or supporting the trousers from above.
Why did cowboys wear suspenders?
Cowboys wore suspenders because they provided reliable trouser support during physical labor and horseback riding, especially before belt loops became common. The suspenders allowed for greater mobility than belts while keeping pants properly positioned during strenuous activity, and they were particularly practical with the higher-waisted pants typical of the era.
Do I need special pants to wear suspenders?
For proper button-attached suspenders, you need pants with buttons sewn inside the waistband or the capability to add them. While clip-on suspenders can attach to any pants, traditional button suspenders require either specialized pants or regular trousers that have been modified by adding buttons at appropriate points along the waistband.