Speaking of garter belts . . .The world may be full of pantyhose and sensible shoes, but not everyone has forgotten the charms of silk stockings held up by a sliver of lace and elastic. “They’re a constant seller,” says Cindy Belcher, manager of the Pleasure Place in Georgetown. “A lot of customers wear them as a staple in their wardrobe. Either they feel it’s more comfortable, or they feel more attractive.”Time was when the fairer sex used to battle with garter belts on a daily basis, pulling and snapping and driving men crazy. Then some idiot invented pantyhose, and legs were never the same. Now garter belts are purchased primarily for their sex appeal, and range from the frothy confections from Frederick’s of Hollywood to the discreet eroticism of Victoria’s Secret.”We’re one of the top destinations for bridal shower gifts and brides-to-be,” says Victoria’s Secret spokeswoman Monica Mitro. “They’re great for weddings.”Women of all ages buy most of the garter belts, although men give the market a boost around Valentine’s Day. You can find them just about anywhere, from the chic-est department stores to the trashiest novelty shops.Last year, Frederick’s alone sold 110,682 garter belts. “It’s a million-dollar business for us,” says a spokesman. “Our best-selling color is black, then white and red for the holidays.”White or cream is the overwhelming choice for brides; the most popular style overall is black satin, followed by red or purple lace. They are most often accessorized with lace-topped, seamed or fishnet stockings.”There aren’t many people who don’t like the way a garter belt looks,” says Belcher.

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