my stars and garters

"My stars and garters" is a colloquial phrase used primarily as an exclamation or interjection to express surprise, astonishment, or sometimes frustration. It is a playful and old-fashioned expression dating back to the 18th century. The phrase combines the word "stars," possibly as a euphemism for "God" or for emphasis, and "garters," which were once worn as decorative leg bands but are now mainly associated with women's lingerie. The phrase is often attributed to certain characters in literature or comic strips to add a touch of whimsy or exaggerated shock to their expressions.