Underwear worn as outerwear is a recurring trend in fashion, from delicate camis to Carrie Bradshaw's ever-visible black bras.  Right now popular undies-inspired styles include sexy corsets as tasteful daywear, lacy fabrics, and the garter belt.  Once reserved for burlesque dancers and behind-bedroom-doors wear only, this lingerie look is showing up on the runway and predicted to blow up on the streets as well.

As shown on the runway (above), the garter belt can be worn with dresses and skirts that hit along the thigh, giving just a peek-a-boo of leg.  The look would be fierce with a stacked heel or a boot, in my opinion, and looks amazing with a fitted blazer (a definite winter staple).

For the increasingly cold fall/winter weather, The Pipeline suggests layering white stockings over black tights.  The look is defintely still sexy, but you'll stay warm and completely covered up.

Whether you're wearing your garter belt out with a thigh-hitting shift dress and jacket or just pulling them on for the bedroom, this How To Wear a Garter Belt video will give you all the tips you need from choosing the lingerie to washing it.

Always ahead of her time when it comes to fashion, Paris Hilton was rocking this garter belt back in 2007.  I love the all black ensemble, but would have thrown in a big bold handbag to add a pop of color.

For more subtle sexiness, slip on just a garter belt band with your mini skirt and stockings.  Shop a real lingerie shop for a band with delicate detailing or you risk looking like something leftover from Halloween.  This Tarina Tarantino Hello Kitty Garter Belt is perfect for a Sanrio-loving girly-girl and is a very adult way to work HK into your wardrobe.

What do you think of garter belts?  Would you slip one one of these on before slipping out the door?

Photos from am-lul, fashion copious, People