Galluses vs. Suspenders — What's the Difference?

Galluses, historically rooted in American vernacular, specifically refer to straps worn over the shoulders to support trousers. These are often associated with older or more regional American English. Suspenders, on the other hand, are the more commonly used term in contemporary American English, understood nationwide to mean elastic straps that go over the shoulders to hold up pants.

While galluses are typically made of leather and associated with workwear or traditional attire, suspenders can be made from a variety of materials, including elastic and cloth, and are used in both casual and formal settings. Galluses, due to their rugged construction, are often seen in contexts requiring durability, such as work environments. Whereas suspenders, with their versatile materials and designs, are popular in both office environments and at formal events.

In terms of cultural perception, galluses are sometimes seen as a symbol of a bygone era or specific regional identities within the United States, reflecting a rustic or 'old-timey' aesthetic. Suspenders, however, have been embraced by a wider audience, including fashion-forward individuals and those adhering to contemporary style trends.

The attachment mechanisms of galluses and suspenders also differ, with galluses traditionally using buttons to attach to trousers. Suspenders, conversely, often come with both button attachments and metal clips, offering a more flexible and adjustable means of securing to various types of trousers.

Though the terms may be used interchangeably in some contexts, galluses evoke a sense of tradition and nostalgia, often favored for their classic appeal and durability. Suspenders, with their broader appeal and modern adaptations, cater to a wide range of preferences and needs, from practicality to fashion.