Abstract: A gripping apparatus, and more specifically a gripping apparatus that can be used with a shirttail retaining harness to grip garments and secure them in place without damaging the garments. The gripping apparatus 30 comprises an upper member 34 having a substantially flat, elastic upper surface 32 and a lower member 38 having a substantially non-flat, rigid lower surface 36. When the gripping apparatus is in a closed position to grip a garment, the lower member 38 is urged into contact with the upper member 34, such that the lower surface 36 elastically deforms the upper surface 32.

Abstract: A shirttail retaining harness (10) is disclosed comprising a pair of elongate straps (12, 14), a means for connecting the straps to a garment (18) and, a connecting member (16) which retains a portion of the straps in spaced relation. The connecting member (16) is located away from the crotch and genital area of a wearer. The shirttail retaining harness (10) is adapted so that, in use, the straps (12, 14) thereof pass along the inside of the thighs of the wearer in the crotch area and diverge at both ends for attachment to a shirttail. An optional clasp (19) is also provided wherein the shirttail cloth is gripped between a protruding member (18e) and a layer of resilient material (18f).