Another idea that I BELIEVE is historically accurate (Matt can give the thumbs up or down on this one)...

Tartan flashes are garters meant to hold the hose up. Originally, a simple scrap of tartan (or other) material was used, about 1.5" wide X 28" long or so. Pull up your hose, tie the scrap around your calf (not TOO tight) and fold your hose down over top of the material. Let the 2 ends of the material dangle from the outside of your calf.

This is the type of thing that would have been done BEFORE the miracle of elastic and velcro.