Braces--or Suspenders--- for Men are a fashion statement of enduring style from another era.
Dress Novelty Braces add a little something extra to a Man's sense of fashion and style.
Back before there were Dress Belts.......a Gentlemen wore Braces--or Suspenders-- to hold up his pants. In today's world.....it may still be the case but it is for Fashion rather than necessity. The selection is extensive........Rep stripes, dots, solids, all-leather (even Alligator !), Formal solids, Formal patterns and weaves and the Limited Edition ones of different patterns and motifs.
What do Dress Braces go with ? Certainly Formalwear occasions (something jazzy under his tux jacket)................and Classic or Novelty braces work well for the office or other dress occasions. Wear them proudly over a shirt for all the world to see...........or hide them under a jacket. We carry a huge variety on our website...even extra long for those over 6'4".......... and are shipping them around the world. All of our Braces use only high-quality leather as trim (and are produced by high-quality leather belt companies) and are the English Gentlemen version with buttons. Since we are in the Dress Fashion Brace business, we do not sell the "Suspender" with metal clamps version, for the most part. These are considered a bit more "pedestrian", I suppose. I prefer the "original" Brace with buttons as part of today's Fashion-Forward Accessory look that most of our customers are going for.
We find there are truly collectors out there..........some who wear them occasionally...........some, like Broadcaster Larry King, who wear them constantly and consider them a part of his personal style. Our patterned Limited Edition ones are truly hard to get enough of...........usually understated retro patterns........that sell out quickly. Special, upscale customers understand all of this fuss. Benjamin Franklin, Napolean, and Franklin Roosevelt all are known to have worn decorated and patterned braces.
This is not "for the minute" fashion...........but an enduring fashion trend of the ages.
Dennis Dann has been a Men's Retailer for over 35 years. He currently ships Men's Clothing and Accessories worldwide, including an extensive selection of Alligator and Crocodile Shoes, Belts and Wallets, thru his website at www.Dann-Online.com with Dann Mens Clothing, The Croc Shop from Dann, Dann Formal Shop, Complete Viyella Shop, Cuff Link Ink, Dann Island Shop, The Khakis Shop by Dann, Dann Happy Hour, Dann Cashmere Shop, Elegant Country Baskets from Dann, Dann Studio Gifts, Dann Big & Tall, Personalized Papers from Dann, Great Explorations ! Luggage, Great Explorations ! Travel, and Personalized Gifts from Dann, Engraved Sterling Silver Collection from Dann, Dann Big & Tall, Dann Studio Clothing, The Christmas Shop for Men, The Golf Shop from Dann, Dann Shearling & Leather Shop. He can be reached via his website at Dann@Dann-Online.com.
» left by Anonymous (2 years 175 days ago.)
Yes,quite interesting.As a suspenders wearer for many years I find I have many more choices as to style and location for the purchase of suspenders.I don't know if they are making a comeback but it seems that they are becoming more popular. I always wear the button style as I find them to be more comfortable.
Wearing suspenders every day I find that I need more than one pair as I wear them with business suits as well as casual clothing. I don't wear suspenders for style but rather the comfort they afford.
When I was young,60 now, suspenders were worn by almost everyone for all occasions.Fashion trends seems to have forced them to a small corner of the market. However I find that,after having tried belts as a younger man,that I was constantly having to hitch up my trousers, plus always a sore tummy. Many years ago I started wearing suspenders again and have worn them everyday since. Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (1 year 173 days ago.)
I have a question about wearing suspenders.My wife,who is not a fan of suspenders,tells me that when I wear them people can tell that I am wearing suspenders.I have been wearing braces(suspenders)for most of my life and prefer not to show them off if I can.I would like to know if it is true that people know that I am wearing suspenders even though I keep them hidden under a sweater or suit coat. Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (1 year 126 days ago.)
if you have been wearing braces for most of your life they are obviously part of your personality a statement of who you are. plus they are functional and comfortable. so why not be more positive and not worry about who knows you wear them at this stage in your life. if you can also see them as a mens fashion accessory you can feel better and more positive about wearing them and regard them as just another item of grooming. To this end you might think of looking for attractive colourful or patterned braces which reflect your personality and say THIS IS WHO I AM. Internet sights such as this one can be a big help in finding braces that you like as well as shops. Think of choosing braces as you would choose a tie. in short be more positive about yourself. why keep them hidden ? men who wear braces in this era are making a statement about themselves. I hope this is helpful to you.
» left by yellow braces from United Kingdom (1 year 20 days ago.)
I have always found braces much more comfortable than belts. To purchase trousers or jeans just that little bit bigger in the waist and sew on buttons (or for jeans get the metal ones to hammer in) is so much more practicle.
At one level, braces are unfashionable and some folk might 'stare' but at another level I have found it surprising how some people pass genuine compliments.
I guess for me I like the look as well as the greatly increased comfort.
» left by Anonymous (1 year 255 days ago.)
this is very afirming as i I have worn braces since a teenager and they are a functionan fashion accessory for me. they are part of my personality. At 58 i would now describe myself as a collector and purist my penchant being for patterned wide button end braces. I feel comfortable and well dressed with my braces on. I definitely wear them for style and am on the look out for new designs the most recent being Trafalgar les loopards. Respond to this comment
» left by Jacques from New York (340 days 23 hours ago.)
I am in my early thirties, and I started wearing "braces" while in law school. I definetly stood out of from the crowd and everyone (professors included) remarked how much more distinquised I look at functions, moot court, and conferences. I stopped wearing jackets and vests entirely, in fact. By my third year, I no longer stood out, as many other students (females too) followed my lead by wearing braces as well. Copycats!
» left by yellow braces from Brighton UK (328 days 7 hours ago.)
Hi Jaques,
As one who has always liked the 'look' and 'comfort' of braces, I wondered when reading your input, whether it was style, comfort or both that motivated you to become a braces wearer.
I also wondered whether you wear them with more casual clothing eg jeans.
Good to hear of others wearing braces but I suspect not all that many in the UK.
I am in my late twenties and have converted to braces several years ago. I don't even own a belt for any of my suits. It is reassuring to see other like minded individuals who are still wearing them. I am starting to see more men wear them now as well. I started wearing them because they hung my slacks better than belts. As I started wearing them more, I feel more confident about myself and I think they look much better than simply having a rope----I mean a belt----wrapped around your waiste. I try to pick several up every year. What about you guys
I really agree that braces DO make you feel more confident about yourself and who you are. They make me feel secure and more comnfident in my dealings with people. In my environment it is unfortunately rare to see a man wearing braces. This is because suits on which they tend to be worn are a rareity for everyday wear. However I do get approving comments about my braces just recently about a LIMITED EDITION pair I have been wearing.. You have got a lifetime to look forward to of wearing braces as part of your style. and individuality. ENJOY.
I have been wearing braces for 3 years now. They are much more comfortable than a belt, and more efficient too, but I only wear them in my house, garden and car. I just feel too self-conscious to show them in public as I am only 22. My mates who know I wear them respect my right, and point out that if they were not meant to be seen in public, why are there so many colours and patterns available?
Apart from keeping your pants up, they keep your shirt tucked in and ensure you don't show your underwear. I note that most men who do wear braces are 40 plus, but only I suspect because they only try them in later life when they need more support.
So, give them a try, you will find that our elders do know best!
I generally wear braces and have done since my teens. I think young guys shy way from them as they are associated with their fathers and grandfathers, and I was too embarrassed to show them in public for a while. However, after a few raised eyebrows, nobody mentions them any more. I prefer plain braces but cannot find info on whether they should match or contrast with my shirt. Any ideas?
My girlfriend has given me a pair of braces, and whilst i agree they are comfortable, I feel too embarrassed to wear them in public. I do not wish to offend her, but what do other guys and gals think?
» left by Dayo Adegoke from Lagos Nigeria (1 year 147 days ago.)
kindly send me updates on fashion accessories for men and women as it is my lines of business.
I would like to ask a question here but I do not know if this is the proper place for it.My wife and I would like to join a square dance club and have been making some inquiries as to the proper attire.I know that women are dressed in skirts or dresses and the men seem to have white long sleeve shirts and dark trousers with belts.I would like to know if it is considered correct to wear suspenders instead of a belt. I have been wearing suspenders for most of my life and would feel more comfortable wearing them. Thank-you
I find braces more comfortable and efficient than a belt, and have noticed recently that more guys are wearing them in public. I guess that whilst they might cause a few stares or comments initially, nobody will give a damn after a few days. This was the case when I first wore braces in public, and now some of my friends have followed suit. Go for it!
I feel that to show braces off to best effect they are better worn on a plain shirt preferebly white. Men who wear braces tend to be well dressed men who are fashion and image conscious and concerned about their appearance. I took to them at a young man but as I matured I became less self conscious about who knew I was wearing them. Now wearing them without a jacket particurly in warm weather is no problem. I think it is important to check when dressing that they are looking as good on you as possible, have a mirror to see that they are properly adjusted at the back. That way you feel really good wearing them. Braces are fun Enjoy wearing them. Loose self consciousness COURAGE MON BRAVE
» left by Justin from England (113 days 9 hours ago.)
strangely, I find that the gals generally make positive comments about my braces, but the guys are less complimentary. i don't wear them as a fashion statement, but simply to keep my pants up. They are definitely more comfortable than belts, particularly in hot weather.I do think that the old taboo of not showing them in public is on the wane - although I have been asked to cover them in a local pub recently, and no I do not look like a skinhead.
I stumbled upon braces 2 year ago, when i was 21. My sister was getting married, and when I put my hire suit on, I realised to my horror that the trousers were too loose, and had no belt loops. I swallowed my pride and asked to borrow a pair of my dads braces, and found them so comfortable that I forgot I was wearing them, and removed my jacket in the stuffy hotel reception room without thinking. Nobody batted an eye, and several other guests followed suit, also revealing braces. Since then, I have regularly worn braces and would recommend them to guys of any age. I do confess that I was initially mortified at revealing them at the wedding (and yes I was photographed and videoed in them), but I am sure more young men would wear them if they tried them. As a confidence builder, you could try a black pair on a black shirt, so they are not so obvious - this would guage your mates reactions, and what the rest of the world thinks is not your concern or of any consequence.Hope this info is helpful.
Great story. Lucky your dad had a pair available. Good tip about starting with a black pair on a black shirt. Less noticable to ease into them. I occasionaly wear this combination although I don t have a black pair at the moment. Keep up the good work.
I don't understand all this junk about being embarrassed by wearing braces. It is surely less embarrassing to be seen in braces than with your pants round your ankles, unless your underpants are very flashy!
In days gone by, nearly every guy wore braces, and if you do, they are bound to be seen at times, so what is the hassle now? My son (39) and my grandsons (aged 20 and 19) have no qualms at wearing braces in public, and I have worn them since University in the 60's. Nobody bothers.
great to see Sir Paul McCartney performing outside the Ed Sullivan theatre last night (16 July 2009). Don't think the vast crowd cared that he was sporting braces (suspenders for our American friends). Maybe I will now be confident to wear mine in public!
surprised that Sir Paul chose the clip-on style rather than the stylish button-on braces. However, I hope he gives braces a better image as I have always found them much more comfortable than a belt, like most men when they try them, usually in middle age!
» left by Amanda (107 days 9 hours ago.)
As a student I started wearing braces with some trousers because I love the look and also enjoy how comfortable they are. And I was surprised to receive so many compliments (especially from males) for my braces. I still like to wear them.
» left by Alan from Manchester (106 days 17 hours ago.)
I feel that from reading these comments, more guys are either wearing braces in private or would like to. Also, it seems that they are not as unpopular with the females as most men think. Am I right?
» left by James from Newcastle England (100 days 6 hours ago.)
Surely in today's modern age, it is quite permissable to wear one's braces in public. I think it is rude to make adverse comments. The fact that one can still buy braces in most men's shops (including mainstream like Burtons and Topman) means they are modern and quite acceptable. At least my pants don't sag and I do not have to keep hitching them up!
» left by Giles from Liverpool England (99 days 16 hours ago.)
Always thought that braces were what old men needed, when they got middle-age spread, until I recently smashed my arm badly in an accident. I did not realise how many times I hitched my pants up until I only had one hand available, which is virtually impossible! My girlfriend suggested a pair of braces would solve the problem, and I must confess they have. I have not received a single adverse comment, although this may be due to the sympathy for my predicament. Guess that I will probably continue to wear them if and when my arm recovers. I have learnt my lesson, and will never criticise anyone in braces again.They do serve a good purpose, particularly for this 19 year old!
» left by Amy from Enfield,Middlesex England (99 days 16 hours ago.)
Just wanted to know why guys have such a hang-up about being caught with their braces showing, I think they look cute, and surely it is no different to me flashing my bra! Come on guys - why are you embarrassed?
» left by Terry from Blackburn, UK (98 days 16 hours ago.)
I am not too embarrased to wear my braces in public. I find them so much more comfortable than a belt, and feel that if anyone is so small-minded as to criticise me , them they are not really my friends. As strangers, well, they don't matter as I don't have to meet them again! That said, it does require confidence in oneself to overcome the strange stigma that surrounds braces, but once you have, you will never give them up. As a young guy, and fit, i find narrow clip-on braces look best on me (confirmed by my fiancee), but suggest the wider variety if you are working as opposed to socialising, as they take greater strain.
» left by Samuel from England (89 days 17 hours ago.)
Why should I spend ages choosing my braces for colour, pattern and style and then never show them in public? Conversely, if one is not supposed to show them, why is there the pompous view that you should NEVER wear the clip-on variety? I like braces and would just like the etiquette side cleared up! I feel that as time has progressed, practicability should prevail - if you prefer braces, they will be seen at times whether you want them to or not (eg changing rooms, or putting on or taking off extra layers), but this should not be regarded as a faux-pas. It is far preferable to be seen in your braces than have your underpants showing above your jeans. Hope you guys and gals agree. Do let me know.
As an older man, I have been wearing braces for most of my life,when I was younger I had been told that braces were never to seen in public.They were considered to be underwear. Maybe that is why some of us just cannot get use to other people seeing them. I suppose this is an old fashioned idea but it is still difficult to overcome.
I agree that braces should be chosen for colour pattern and style so that you will look your best when wearing them as you can not wear them under a jacket or pullover all the time. However I am a purist . While I DO wear the clip on variety more than I would like I feel that the loop end variety is more authentic particularly if you wear a suit. The clip on variety may be more convinient or practicle if you occasionally wish to take them on and off the trousers at short notice. The downside of clip on braces or SNAPPERS is that one or more of the clips will invariably slip off the trousers. I find this most irritating and sometimes wonder WHY I ever wear the clip on variety.
» left by Nick from Leicester, England (88 days 17 hours ago.)
Whilst I agree that the clip-on style of braces do tend to fail on one clip I find that this can be rectified by inserting a small folded piece of cardboard inside the trouser waistband thus giving the clip more to purchase on. Alternatively, you can clip your underpants as well as your trousers into the clips, which I also find solves the problem. I personally prefer the clip-on braces as they can be used on all my pants, and do look more modern than the button on variety, which my dad and granddad wear.
» left by adam from liverpool, england (86 days 16 hours ago.)
From reading this thread, I definitely get the impression that many more guys would wear braces (suspenders in USA) if they did not feel so embarrassed to be seen in public in them. Surely the answer is to be brave, in which case, more would follow suit and you would no longer feel the odd ones out. In my mind, there is no doubt that braces are far more comfortable than belts (or very tight pants), and all guys should have the option of wearing them without rude or snide comments. My GF loves to play with my braces although I was nervous in letting her see them originally. I also get appreciative comments and reactions from the young ladies in my office when I remove my jacket, and no, they are not just humouring an older guy - I am only 23. In fact, I think the braces or belts question is just as important as the brief or boxers one which all my mates constantly discuss. The answer might surprise you,as did the one on underpants - briefs came out top, and even longjohns got a mention as popular in winter, or when biking. It's a strange old world.
» left by Willie from Maryland (53 days 6 hours ago.)
I found this article to be very informative and very interesting. However, I would like to know if there is any information on where the buttons should be located on the trousers.
» left by Adam from Liverpool (42 days 2 hours ago.)
Hi Willie,
The buttons should be placed equi-distant from the centre rear seam, and in two pairs at the front above the pockets. You can either place them inside or outside the waistband of the trousers,as a matter of choice. (I prefer them on the inside).
If you have not worn braces before, I would suggest that you try a pair of clip-on ones first before getting buttons on all your trousers, just to make sure you feel comfortable (you will).
Yes I agree try a pair of clip-ons first, but don't wear them too long as they are not the best to be seen in. Once guys try them they will like Braces then never turn back to belts again. I have had loads of trousers fitted with brace buttons and it only cost about £6.00 each time but the difference in great and the look is so much better than clip-ons. It make a great fashion statement.
If you are going to wear them make it look good with button braces and a nice stripe colour of something to add a bit of a splash. Bet the good comments will come flooding in from other guys who see them.
» left by Ricky from Scotland UK (34 days 2 hours ago.)
This thread is great and nice to know that lots of other guys out there wear braces as well. I like to show mine off but it is a bit embarrassing sometime but must people like the look and give good comments. Once you wear them a few times out and about or at work you get more comfortable and just lose the embarrassment after a while. I agree that button ones are best and add a bit of class to the style. So lets all get those jackets off and show off those braces, How many guys are hiding them out there that make it look like a minority were them when a lot more in fact do wear them but hide then. Go for it show them off.
» left by Thomas from Cardiff (30 days 16 hours ago.)
This braces perception is all in the mind. I prefer braces to belts, but only ever had the confidence to wear them hidden, apart from the house in front of family and close friends. My Dad had always worn them, but had covered them up as well. However, as guys will be well aware, it is absolutely impossible not to show them at all times - I got caught bringing the milk in, and then putting the wheelie bin out, when I thought nobody would be about! To my surprise, nobody made any comment, so I have subsequently worn them uncovered to the gym, and the corner shop, again with no real hassle. I think it must be an age thing - folk expect middle-aged men to wear braces, but not the 18 to 30 year old age group, unless they are manual workers. Having broken the ice, I shall continue to live life in comfort, wearing my braces, and ignoring the unwritten taboo. Haven't yet persuaded Dad to go public, but that is his problem. I would just add that as a "youngster" I prefer the narrow clip-on style, which are more practical on modern jeans/trousers. Perhaps the fact that Matt Smith (the new Dr Who) has chosen to wear braces will encourage their popularity. Do try them, they are great!
Hi Thomas, Liked your comment and glad to hear you are now out with your braces so to speak. Yes if you try and hide them someone will always catch a glimps of them and I found like you that most people give positive comments when they see them. I wear mine and show them off all the time now and people just all know that I wear braces now. I hope that Matt Smith (Dr Who) will bring braces back into the mainstream again and am sure we will see lots more guys wearing them
Don't understand the fashion side of these comments. Whilst braces are sold in all men's shops, as they are, how can they be deemed unfashionable? Since I started wearing them I am sure that many folk have caught a glimpse of them, despite my best efforts not to show them, but I have not had a single adverse comment. In any case, practicality over fashion any day!
» left by Ricky from Scotland (4 hours 37 minutes ago.) New Comment!
Hi Mate,
I think it is just a perception that only old guys wear braces and not cool for us young guys to be seen wearing them. But I agree it is an old fashioned idea as loads of young guys wear them now. Look at the band JLS one of them wears them all the time and I see lots of photos of celebs wearing braces so whats wrong with the guys in the street wearing them.
Why do you try and not show them, get them out and show them off as you say not a single adverse comment so why not wear them and show them off, it may encourge more guys to wear them openly or even give them a try if they see others wearing them.
Like you say they are practical and they few guys I have convinced to give them a try have all said they are much more comfortable to wear than a belt.
I have just orders a couple of pairs of button ends braces to wear with my G-Star jeans, which come with braces attached but they are not very nice ones so I thought I would buy some nice skinny button ones to give a bit of a splash of colour to the look. Friday is dress down day at work so the braces will be out on show then.
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