When couples think about wedding planning, the big-ticket decisions, venues, catering, photography, attire, naturally take center stage. Yet it’s often the smallest details that feel the most emotionally loaded. The wedding garter is one of those details. Many brides know it’s “a thing,” but aren’t quite sure why, whether they need one, or how to choose something that actually feels right for their wedding day. In the U.S., this tradition has shifted dramatically, and understanding that evolution is the key to making a confident decision.

This Wedwinks guide is written from real wedding-industry experience, not theory. Below, you’ll find 15 wedding garters, each explained clearly and thoughtfully so you understand not just what it looks like, but who it’s for, how it’s typically used, and when it makes sense. These aren’t just product descriptions, they’re practical, planning-based insights designed to help you decide whether a wedding garter fits into your celebration and, if so, which style truly belongs there.

Best 15 Wedding Garters For Your Big Day

A wedding garter is one of those traditional accessories that many brides consider without fully understanding its purpose or relevance today. In modern U.S. weddings, it’s no longer a requirement but a personal choice that can carry sentimental, symbolic, or practical meaning. Whether worn for tradition, comfort, or as a private keepsake, the wedding garter has evolved to fit a wide range of wedding styles. Understanding the basics helps couples decide if and how this tradition fits into their celebration.

1. Classic Lace Wedding Garter

A classic lace wedding garter remains one of the most popular choices among U.S. brides, especially for traditional ceremonies and formal receptions. Typically crafted with soft white or ivory lace and a slim elastic band, this style sits smoothly under most gowns. Brides often choose it because it feels timeless and familiar, echoing generations of wedding tradition without drawing too much attention. It’s particularly well-suited for ball gowns and A-line dresses where structure and elegance are key. For brides who want tradition without overthinking, this option feels safe, beautiful, and appropriate.

2. Something Blue Wedding Garter

This wedding garter is designed specifically to fulfill the “something blue” tradition while still blending seamlessly with bridal attire. Often accented with a pale blue ribbon, crystal, or embroidery, it adds sentimental value without disrupting the look of your gown. Many brides appreciate this option because it allows them to honor tradition in a subtle, intentional way. It works well for both minimalist and classic weddings, especially when other blue elements are kept understated. It’s a small detail that quietly carries meaning throughout the day.

3. Minimalist Satin Wedding Garter

A satin wedding garter is ideal for brides who value clean lines and modern simplicity. With little to no embellishment, this style prioritizes comfort and smoothness under fitted gowns. Brides planning city weddings or contemporary celebrations often gravitate toward this option because it feels intentional rather than decorative. Satin garters are also less likely to show texture through fabric, making them a practical choice for sheath or slip dresses. If your aesthetic leans modern and unfussy, this style aligns naturally.

4. Vintage-Inspired Wedding Garter

Vintage-inspired wedding garters often feature intricate lace patterns, scalloped edges, or antique-style trims that evoke heirloom quality. Brides drawn to nostalgic aesthetics, such as garden weddings, historic venues, or retro gowns, often choose this style. A wedding garter like this feels less like an accessory and more like a keepsake. Many couples intentionally save these garters long after the wedding, treating them as part of their family story rather than a one-day detail.

5. Pearl-Embellished Wedding Garter

Pearls have long been associated with weddings, and a pearl-embellished wedding garter offers a refined take on tradition. This style pairs beautifully with pearl jewelry or classic gowns, creating cohesion across your bridal look. Brides who want a touch of luxury without sparkle often prefer pearls for their softness and elegance. It’s also a popular choice for formal evening weddings where understated sophistication matters. Comfort should still be prioritized, as heavier embellishments can affect wearability.

6. Floral Lace Wedding Garter

Floral lace designs add texture and romantic detail to a wedding garter, making them a favorite for spring and summer weddings. These styles feel organic and pair well with garden venues, outdoor ceremonies, and soft bridal palettes. Brides often choose floral lace when they want their accessories to echo their bouquet or dress detailing. While decorative, these garters can still be lightweight if designed thoughtfully, making them suitable for all-day wear.

7. Boho Wedding Garter

A boho wedding garter typically features relaxed materials, softer elastic, and sometimes unconventional elements like fringe or earthy tones. Brides planning outdoor, destination, or non-traditional weddings often appreciate how this style feels less formal and more personal. It complements flowy gowns, lace dresses, and barefoot-friendly celebrations. This garter style emphasizes comfort and individuality over tradition, aligning well with couples who want authenticity above all else.

8. Simple Elastic Wedding Garter

Sometimes, simplicity truly is the best choice. A basic elastic wedding garter is often selected by brides who plan to do a garter toss but don’t want to invest heavily in the tradition. These garters are easy to wear, easy to remove, and typically very affordable. While they may not be keepsake-worthy, they serve a functional purpose and reduce stress around comfort or damage. For couples treating the garter toss as lighthearted fun, this option makes sense.

9. Keepsake Wedding Garter

Keepsake wedding garters are chosen with longevity in mind. Often featuring higher-quality materials, embroidery, or sentimental details, this garter is meant to be saved rather than tossed. Brides who value memory-keeping or family tradition often gravitate toward this style. It’s common to pair a keepsake garter with a separate toss garter to protect its condition. This approach balances meaning with practicality.

10. Garter Toss Wedding Garter

Designed specifically for the reception tradition, toss wedding garters prioritizes durability and fit. These garters are typically simpler and more secure, ensuring they stay in place until the moment they’re removed. Brides who want to participate in the tradition without risking a sentimental piece often choose this option. It’s not about appearance, it’s about functionality and ease during a lively moment.

11. Personalized Wedding Garter

A personalized wedding garters may include initials, a wedding date, or a meaningful phrase. This style resonates with couples who want their accessories to tell a story. Personalization adds emotional value, even if no one else ever sees it. Brides should plan ahead for this option, as customization requires extra production time. The result is a deeply personal piece that often becomes a treasured keepsake.

12. Embroidered Wedding Garter

Embroidery allows for subtle detail without heavy embellishment, making this wedding garter both decorative and wearable. Floral motifs, symbols, or text can be stitched directly into the fabric, adding dimension without bulk. Brides who want detail without sparkle often choose embroidery. It works well under a variety of dress fabrics and maintains comfort throughout the day.

13. Silk Wedding Garter

Silk wedding garters are prized for their softness and breathability. Brides planning summer weddings or long celebrations often choose silk for comfort reasons. This fabric glides easily against the skin and reduces irritation during extended wear. A silk wedding garter also feels luxurious without requiring embellishment, making it a popular choice for minimalist brides.

14. Tulle Wedding Garter

Tulle garters add lightness and texture, often creating a whimsical, romantic feel. This style pairs well with tulle gowns or layered skirts, reinforcing visual cohesion. Brides who want a soft, airy accessory often gravitate toward tulle. While delicate in appearance, a well-constructed tulle wedding garter can still offer secure wear when properly fitted.

15. Rhinestone Wedding Garter

For brides who love sparkle, a rhinestone wedding garter adds glamour in a controlled way. These garters photograph beautifully during detail shots and complement evening receptions. However, brides should be mindful of comfort, as heavier embellishments can shift during wear. This style is best for shorter wear periods or paired with a separate toss garter.

What Is Wedding Garters and Why Bride Still Wear Them?

In modern U.S. weddings, the wedding garter is a personal choice rather than a must-have tradition. Historically, garters symbolized good luck, prosperity, and even fertility, but today they serve multiple roles: as fashion statements, sentimental pieces, or fun reception tokens. You can wear one without ever doing a garter toss, or skip the tradition entirely if it doesn’t align with your celebration. That flexibility is one of the best things about planning weddings today: you get to choose what follows you down the aisle and what doesn’t. 

Frequently Asked Questions About the Wedding Garter

1. Do I actually need a wedding garter for my wedding?

No, a wedding garter is completely optional in modern U.S. weddings. While it was once considered a standard bridal accessory, today it’s a personal choice rather than an expectation. Many couples choose to include one for tradition, sentiment, or fun, while others skip it entirely without it affecting their wedding in any way. The most important factor is whether it feels meaningful or enjoyable to you, not whether it’s considered “normal.”

2. When do I put on the garter during the day?

Most brides put on their wedding garter while getting ready, after their dress is fully on and adjusted. This ensures proper placement and comfort before the ceremony begins. If you’re wearing two garters, a keepsake and a toss garter, both are usually worn from the start, with the toss garter placed slightly lower for easier removal later. Putting it on early also prevents rushing or awkward adjustments during the reception.

3. Which leg should the wedding garter be worn on?

Traditionally, a wedding garter is worn on the right leg, but no rule requires this. Comfort and dress design matter far more than tradition. Some brides choose the leg that feels more natural or works better with their gown’s construction or slit placement. If you’re unsure, try it on both legs during a dress fitting to see which feels best throughout movement.

4. Is the Garter toss still common at U.S. weddings?

The garter toss is becoming less common, especially at formal weddings or celebrations with mixed-age guest lists. Many couples feel the tradition doesn’t reflect their personalities or comfort levels, and that’s perfectly acceptable. Some couples modify it, while others skip it entirely but still wear a wedding garter for personal or sentimental reasons. Today, there’s no social pressure to include the toss, it’s entirely optional.

5. Should I buy one wedding garter or two?

If you plan to do a garter toss and also want a meaningful keepsake, buying two wedding garters is often the best option. One garter can be simple and secure for the toss, while the other is designed to keep long-term with special details or personalization. This approach is very common in U.S. weddings and helps avoid damaging something sentimental during the reception. If you’re skipping the toss, one thoughtfully chosen wedding garter is more than enough.

Final Thoughts

The wedding garter may seem like a small accessory, but it represents a larger shift in how modern U.S. couples approach wedding planning. Today, it’s no longer about following tradition for tradition’s sake, it’s about making intentional choices that align with your comfort, values, and vision. Whether you choose a keepsake garter, a simple toss version, a fashion-forward design, or decide to skip the tradition altogether, the right choice is the one that feels authentic to you and your partner.

From real-world planning experience, couples who feel most at ease on their wedding day are those who understand the purpose behind each decision they make. A thoughtfully chosen wedding garters should support your comfort, complement your attire, and add meaning, never stress or pressure. When you approach wedding details with clarity and confidence, your day unfolds more naturally, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: celebrating your commitment and enjoying the moment.