How to Properly Adjust Suspenders

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Putting on Your Suspenders

Adjusting the Straps

Suspenders offer a unique alternative to belts, keeping your pants securely in place while adding a touch of style. Whether you're aiming for a classic look or a vintage vibe, suspenders can transform any outfit. With various styles available, understanding how to adjust them is crucial for the perfect fit. There are two main types: clip and button suspenders. Remember, button suspenders require pants with sewn-in buttons along the waistline. To adjust your suspenders, simply open the clamps on the slide adjusters—these are the horizontal clips on the straps—and move the fabric underneath to tighten or loosen the straps.

Step-by-Step Guide

Putting on Your Suspenders

Secure the suspenders to the back of your pants before wearing them. Lay your pants flat on a surface. For suspenders with clips, open them by pressing where the metal meets the fabric. Insert the fabric at the waistband's top between the open jaws and release to close around it. If you have button suspenders, slide the button on the back of your belt loop through the fabric slit.

Clip suspenders are more common than button suspenders. To determine which type you have, inspect the strap ends. Metal pieces indicate clip suspenders, while fabric ends with slits signify button suspenders.
If using Y-shaped suspenders with a single strap at the back, attach it to the waistline's center. For standard suspenders, clip each strap 6–12 inches (15–30 cm) from the center belt loop on the back, adjusting for comfort. Broad-backed individuals may prefer starting closer to 12 inches (30 cm), while shorter individuals may find 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) more suitable.
Button suspenders typically have buttons inside the waistline, though on some pants, they may be outside between the belt loops.

Important: If your pants lack buttons, you can't wear button suspenders. These suspenders are often custom-made, so visit a tailor to have buttons added. Button suspenders are considered vintage but more fashionable than standard ones.

Put on your pants and let the straps hang behind you. Ensure the horizontal slide adjusters face the correct direction before donning your pants. These adjusters, used to tighten suspenders, should be outward-facing when worn, aligning with the back of your legs. Adjust the back clamps as needed, then put on your pants.

If your pants slip down, perform this step while seated.

Slip the straps over your shoulders and fasten them to the front of your pants. Reach behind and grab the suspender straps, sliding them over your shoulders and adjusting for a flat fit against your skin. Attach the suspenders to your waistline in the front.

For clip suspenders, attach them wherever comfortable on your waistline, typically resting on or just outside your nipples.
With button suspenders, locate buttons on the front similar in size and shape to those on the back of your pants.

Adjusting the Straps

Raise the clamp on each slide adjuster to release the straps. Press on the side of each clip and push upwards to unlock. The clamps will click open, allowing you to adjust the strap tightness.

Some suspenders feature belt clips instead of clamps on the adjusters, which don't require unlocking. Belt clip suspenders are easier to adjust but are typically less formal than standard ones.

PRO TIP

Shaelynn Haning

Shaelynn Haning
Professional Tailor & Business Owner

Elastic suspenders tend to stretch over time. Once they lose elasticity, they struggle to support pants properly. To prolong their functionality, consider adding sliders similar to those found on bra straps. This allows you to tighten the suspenders as needed when the elastic loosens, extending their lifespan.

Adjust the slide adjuster's position by moving it up or down. Altering the slide's height facilitates minor adjustments, so position it according to comfort and preference. Shift each slide adjuster vertically along the strap to change its position.

Typically, people position them 6–8 inches (15–20 cm) below the chest, although the choice is entirely subjective based on comfort and aesthetics.
Maintain uniform height for both slide adjusters.
Slide adjusters cannot be repositioned while locked in place.

Lift the fabric beneath the clamp to loosen the strap. With one hand, secure the slide adjuster in place while using the other hand to grasp the fabric below it. Slide the fabric upward through the adjuster to loosen the strap.

For suspenders equipped with belt clips, you can freely adjust the fabric beneath the slide adjuster by pushing it through the belt clip. However, altering the belt clip's position will affect the strap's tightness.

Pro Tip: Aim for a snug yet comfortable fit with your suspenders. Remember, they're replacing your belt, so the tension should be similar to that of a belt.

Lower the fabric beneath the clamp to tighten the strap. To tighten the suspender straps, hold the slide adjuster steady with one hand and grasp the fabric below it with the other. Pull the fabric downward through the adjuster to tighten the strap.

If you notice increased tightness in the back after this adjustment, lift and reset your suspender straps to readjust the tension.

Secure the straps in place by locking the clamps on the slide adjusters. Once the straps are comfortably snug, lock them in position to prevent loosening. Press down on the clamp until it audibly clicks. Once locked, the straps will remain secure.

For suspenders featuring belt clips, this step is unnecessary. These suspenders may loosen over time due to their design.

Expert Advice

Suspenders with slimmer straps are often more fashionable than wider ones, typically measuring 1.5 in (3.8 cm) or broader.
Wearing both suspenders and a belt simultaneously is generally considered unfashionable.
For a suited appearance, opt for suspenders that match the color of your suit jacket. Alternatively, you can experiment with complementary color schemes for a more contemporary style.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main types of suspenders available on the market?

The two main types of suspenders are clip and button suspenders. Clip suspenders use metal clips to attach to the waistband, while button suspenders require pants with sewn-in buttons for attachment.

How do I properly adjust my suspenders for the best fit?

To adjust suspenders, release the clamps on the slide adjusters and move the fabric to tighten or loosen. Ensure they fit snugly without being uncomfortable, typically positioned 6–8 inches below the chest.

Can I wear suspenders if my pants lack buttons for attachment?

No, you cannot wear button suspenders on pants without buttons. If your pants lack buttons, consider visiting a tailor to add them for proper functionality.