Gartered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Fashion

• In the 18th century, garters became essential accessories as it was fashionable for men to wear high stockings.
• The garter belt, a modern variation, was invented in the late 19th century to hold up stockings after they became popular.
• Today, garters are often worn by brides during weddings as part of a traditional custom.

Cultural Significance

• In British culture, the Order of the Garter is one of the oldest and most prestigious orders of chivalry, established in 1348.
• Garters have appeared in various cultural rituals and celebrations, often symbolizing love or commitment.
• In some cultures, tossing a garter at a wedding signifies good luck for the unmarried guests.

Literature

• Garters have been featured in various literary works, symbolizing both sensuality and elegance.
• Shakespeare often referenced garters in his plays, associating them with themes of romance and attraction.
• In Chaucer’s 'The Canterbury Tales', a character named the Wife of Bath famously wore a silk garter, highlighting her bold personality.

Modern Usage

• In contemporary fashion, garters sometimes appear as edgy accessories, adding a bold statement to outfits.
• Garters have been embraced by various subcultures, including punk and goth, as symbols of rebellion and nonconformity.
• Today's intimate apparel often includes garters as a way to combine practicality with style.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'garter' comes from the Old French term 'garde', which means to guard or protect.
• Historically, garters were made from cloth, leather, or other materials and were often decorated.
• In the 14th century, garters were commonly used by both men and women and became a fashion statement.

The word 'gartered' originates from the Middle English term 'garter', which derived from the Old French 'garter' meaning 'to fasten'. The use of garters dates back to the 14th century when they were employed to support stockings and prevent them from falling down. Initially, garters were simple bands made from cloth or leather, but over time they evolved into more elaborate accessories often used in fashion and formal attire. The popularity of gartered garments surged in the 19th century, particularly among women, as fashion trends changed and the desire for more fitted clothing styles grew. Today, gartered clothing remains popular in various forms, including lingerie and costume wear, often associated with elegance and sophistication.