Jarretels are officially having a moment — and not in a quiet, niche way. From runway looks to street-style outfits and social media styling videos, jarretels (often referred to as garter belts or suspenders for stockings) have gone from “lingerie-only” territory to a bold fashion statement. In the first few seconds of spotting them, most people have the same reaction: Wait… are those meant to be seen?
Yes. That’s exactly the point.
This trend taps into everything modern fashion is obsessed with right now: confident self-expression, lingerie-as-outerwear, vintage revival, and styling pieces that feel personal rather than purely practical. And because jarretels can be styled in so many ways — romantic, edgy, minimalist, streetwear, bridal, couture—they’ve become one of the most talked-about accessories across style communities.
Below, you’ll get the full story: what jarretels are, why they’re trending, how to style them without looking costume-y, what to buy, and how to wear them comfortably.
What Are Jarretels?
Jarretels are a fashion accessory traditionally designed to hold stockings in place using adjustable straps and clips. In many contexts, jarretels refers to what English speakers often call a garter belt or suspender belt. The piece is typically worn around the waist or hips and features several straps that connect down to stockings, creating a visually striking, structured silhouette.
Historically, jarretels were functional. Stockings didn’t have elastic bands the way many do today, and they required support to stay in place. Over time, modern hosiery made jarretels less necessary, but they never disappeared. Instead, they remained a symbol of femininity, vintage glamour, and lingerie culture, eventually becoming one of the most iconic details in fashion history.
What makes jarretels feel new again is how they are being worn today. They’re no longer hidden under skirts or dresses. They’re being styled intentionally, often visible as part of the outfit, and used as a design feature rather than purely a practical garment.
Why Jarretels Are Trending Right Now
Jarretels are trending because they align with current fashion’s biggest themes: lingerie as outerwear, vintage revival, body confidence, and detail-driven styling that performs well visually online. The trend has been accelerated by the popularity of fashion content on social media, where outfits that include unexpected layers or striking styling details tend to attract more attention.
At the same time, the lingerie market itself has been growing significantly, and brands are investing in pieces that blur the line between intimate wear and everyday style. This means jarretels are being reintroduced not as “lingerie only,” but as fashion accessories integrated into modern wardrobes.
Another reason jarretels have become so talked-about is that they instantly transform even a simple outfit. A black blazer and heels can look polished and classic, but adding jarretels introduces edge and fashion-forward structure. That contrast is exactly what makes the trend so appealing.
Jarretels and the Lingerie-as-Outerwear Movement
Jarretels are part of a larger movement that’s been building for years. Lingerie-inspired fashion has grown steadily in mainstream styling, and it’s now common to see corset tops, satin slip dresses, visible bralettes, lace-trim camisoles, sheer mesh layers, and exposed straps used as styling tools rather than hidden garments.
Jarretels fit perfectly into this direction because they offer structure and detail without requiring a complete outfit overhaul. They can be worn subtly, such as peeking beneath a hemline, or styled boldly as the focus of the look. This flexibility is part of why the jarretels trend is expanding across different fashion aesthetics, from minimalist to edgy and from vintage-inspired to streetwear.
Jarretels Styling: How to Wear Them Without Feeling Overexposed
One of the biggest hesitations people have is wondering if jarretels are too revealing. The good news is that jarretels don’t have to be worn in an overly exposed way. In fact, the most wearable jarretels outfits usually rely on subtle styling, controlled visibility, and smart layering.
If you’re new to the trend, the easiest approach is to wear jarretels under a longer piece, such as an oversized blazer, a long coat, or a slip dress with a slit. When jarretels appear just slightly, they become a fashion detail rather than the whole statement. This makes the outfit look intentional and modern rather than like lingerie styling for shock value.
Another great method is to wear jarretels over a base layer such as tights, fitted shorts, or a bodysuit. This turns jarretels into an accessory piece and helps you feel more comfortable. It also makes the look easier to wear in public settings, especially when paired with boots or tailored outerwear.
The key is balance. Jarretels already bring a strong aesthetic to the outfit, so pairing them with something structured or minimalist helps keep the look fashionable and wearable.
Real Outfit Ideas That Make Jarretels Look Chic
Jarretels styled with an oversized blazer is one of the most popular combinations for a reason. The blazer provides coverage and structure while the jarretels add edge and fashion-forward contrast. This look works especially well with a simple bodysuit or bralette and a clean pair of heels, because it keeps everything looking refined.
Jarretels can also be styled with wide-leg trousers for a more streetwear-inspired take. This works best when jarretels are layered over a fitted base layer or styled so the waistband and straps become a subtle visible detail above the pants. Neutral colors tend to work best here because they make jarretels feel intentional rather than costume-like.
For a softer aesthetic, jarretels under a slip dress create a romantic but modern effect. If the dress has a slight slit or a subtle sheer layer, jarretels become a peek-through detail that adds depth to the outfit without taking over.
If you prefer edgy styling, jarretels with a mini skirt and boots can look striking. Adding opaque tights underneath makes the outfit more wearable and gives a more fashion-forward street-style feel. Boots also add visual weight, which balances the delicacy of the straps and keeps the outfit grounded.
What to Look for When Buying Jarretels
Shopping for jarretels can be tricky if you don’t know what to prioritize. The biggest factor is fit. Some jarretels are designed to sit at the waist, which gives a more vintage-inspired silhouette. Others sit lower on the hips, creating a more modern, relaxed shape. Choosing between them depends on your desired aesthetic and the outfits you want to wear them with.
Adjustability is essential. Jarretels straps should be adjustable so they can match your body proportions and sit comfortably without pulling. Non-adjustable straps often look awkward because they either hang too loose or pull too tight, which affects both comfort and appearance.
Quality hardware matters more than many people expect. Metal clasps and strap adjusters tend to last longer and look more premium, while plastic hardware can feel flimsy and may break under tension. If you plan to wear jarretels frequently or style them visibly, investing in quality makes a noticeable difference.
Comfort also depends on the waistband. A well-designed waistband should sit securely without digging in, and it should feel stable as you move. Jarretels should feel supportive, not restrictive.
Are Jarretels Comfortable?
Jarretels can be comfortable, but they need proper styling and fit. The waistband should not be overly tight, and the straps should be adjusted so they sit naturally along the body rather than pulling downward. Stockings also play a role. If stockings are too loose, they can slide and create tension, which makes jarretels feel uncomfortable.
When jarretels are worn as a fashion styling piece rather than strictly for holding stockings, they can be even more comfortable. Wearing jarretels over tights or fitted shorts reduces tension and allows you to enjoy the look without the pressure of perfect hosiery alignment.
The most important rule is that jarretels should feel secure but never painful. If they pinch, slip, or pull too much, it’s usually a sizing or adjustability issue rather than a problem with jarretels as a concept.
Why the Jarretels Trend Is More Than Just a Micro-Trend
Jarretels are trending, but they’re not trending randomly. They represent a deeper fashion shift toward intentional dressing and style experimentation. People are moving away from outfits that feel basic and predictable, and leaning into pieces that create contrast, shape, and narrative.
Jarretels are also part of the wider growth of lingerie as a fashion category. As lingerie becomes more normalized as visible styling, jarretels naturally gain attention because they’re instantly recognizable and visually striking. They allow people to express confidence, embrace vintage-inspired glamour, and experiment with the lingerie-as-outerwear aesthetic without committing to a fully revealing outfit.
This is why jarretels aren’t just a passing social media moment. They fit into a larger movement that has been growing across fashion runways, street style, and consumer behavior.
Jarretels FAQ: Common Questions Answered
What are jarretels used for?
Jarretels are traditionally used to hold stockings in place using adjustable straps and clips. Today, jarretels are also worn as a fashion accessory and styling element, often visible as part of the outfit.
Can you wear jarretels without stockings?
Yes, jarretels can be worn without stockings. Many people wear them over tights, fitted shorts, or bodysuits as a layered accessory to achieve the jarretels look without the functional stocking component.
Are jarretels only lingerie?
Jarretels were traditionally lingerie, but they are now considered part of fashion styling, especially within the lingerie-as-outerwear trend. They can be styled with blazers, dresses, skirts, and trousers as a fashion-forward detail.
How do you stop jarretels from slipping?
Jarretels slip when the waistband is loose, straps are not adjusted properly, or stockings are not fitted correctly. Choosing adjustable straps and the right size is the best solution.
Do jarretels work for all body types?
Yes, jarretels can look flattering on all body types. Waist-high jarretels emphasize curves and shape, while hip-sitting jarretels offer a more modern silhouette. The key is choosing the right cut and adjusting straps properly.
Conclusion: Why Jarretels Are Everywhere Now
Jarretels are being talked about because they deliver what modern fashion loves most: confidence, contrast, and detail-driven styling. They can be soft or edgy, subtle or bold, vintage-inspired or contemporary. Most importantly, they allow people to transform outfits without changing their whole wardrobe.
If you want to try the jarretels fashion trend, the best approach is to start with subtle styling, focus on fit and quality, and balance the look with structured or minimalist pieces. Once you see how jarretels elevate even a simple outfit, you’ll understand why jarretels are no longer just lingerie—they’re a modern fashion statement.