Why do the buttons about men and women’s clothes always appear on opposing sides?
Have you ever stopped thinking about why the buttons on men’s shirts are always on the right, while the women’s shirts are left? It is a special detail that is often unnoticed, yet it has been intentionally maintained for centuries.
Could there be a hidden reason behind this practice, or is it just a matter of tradition? Some even speculate that they stem from old social divisions, secret codes in fashion or even remnants of military strategy.
Although these theories may sound interesting, the real explanation lies in history, culture, and functionality.
The location of the buttons on men’s shirts on the right and the female shirt on the left is the result of centuries-old social and cultural practices. Understanding the causes of this arrangement provides insight into the historical background of fashion and explains why this custom is still practiced.
When the buttons were introduced in the 13th century, it was extremely expensive, and only high-end women could afford to wear buttons. The location of the buttons to the right for men and on the left for women reflect not only design functionality, but also social gender and class differences.
In the 13th century, ordinary women attached cloth binding clothing or wooden clips, while middle and upper-class women often wore sophisticated clothing fixed with expensive buttons of gold, silver, pearl, gems, and ivory, a trend, which laid the foundations for future distinguishing between haute couture and informal wear.
At that time, the rich women wore the most expensive clothing, but did not dress; Their servants did. Because most individuals were right-handed, the buttons had to be left for a person standing opposite to be easily fastened. Placing the buttons on the left for women’s garments was a fine indicator of the family’s well-being, which was typical of a higher class.
In men, the location of the buttons could come from the army. Most men are right-handed, therefore, with the buttons on the right, ht make their weapons hidden under their garments. Historically, when men took over hunting responsibility, the movement of drawing weapons was normally from left to right, and therefore the attachment of buttons and clip on the clothes was built to the right to adapt to this movement.
Men’s clothing still carries many similarities to historical military uniforms. During the thousands of years of battle, men developed the practice of consolidating and non-rotating buttons with their left hands. The tradition of the buttons persists and has become a fashion standard, although it is not necessary. This represents stability and reference to the past, as well as representation of style and aesthetics in the current way.
While modern clothing design no longer depends on these historical factors, tradition continues. Whether intentional or not, this fine detail serves as a reminder of how fashion is deeply linked to the history, practicality and social customs.
Why are the buttons on the clothes of men and women on the opposite sides?
The tradition of the buttons on the right for men and on the left for women has been reaching for centuries and is rooted in historical and cultural customs. The research of the origin of this practice reveals how fashion has evolved while maintaining this seemingly small but significant detail.
The buttons were first introduced in the 13th century and at that time it was considered a luxury object that only the rich could afford. This distinction in the location of the buttons was not only a matter of design, but also a reflection of class and gender roles in society.
During this period, lower-class women usually secured cloth ties or wooden fasteners, while richer women wore garments decorated with decorative buttons made of materials such as gold, silver, pearls, gems, a nd ivory. This meant an early division between Haute Couture and everyday fashion.
The rich women of that time did not dress, but the servants helped them. Given that most people were right-handed, the location of the buttons was easier to hold the clothing for their lovers. This arrangement became a gentle indicator of social status and strengthened the idea that the clothing meant wealth.
In men, the location of the buttons was influenced by practicality, especially in the military environment. Since most men were right-handed, the fastening buttons on the right facilitated access to weapons hidden under their clothes. In addition, hunters and soldiers usually pulled the weapons from left to right, so it is preferable to have buttons located accordingly.
Men’s clothing has retained many design elements inspired by historical military uniforms. Over generations, soldiers have evolved the habit of fixing buttons with their left hands, which is a practice that was transmitted by everyday fashion. Although this position of the knob is no longer a necessity, it has persisted as a long -term fashion convention, symbolizes continuity and tradition, while contributing to the overall aesthetics of modern clothing.
That is why even today buttons on men’s and female shirts remain on the opposite sides – a permanent reminder of the influence of history on contemporary fashion.
Conclusion
Placing the buttons on the garment of men and women may seem like small details, but is deeply rooted in history, reflects social customs, class differences, and practical considerations. From the aristocratic women of the past who relied on servants to dress them in military influence on men’s clothing, this tradition has lasted for centuries. While modern fashion is no longer strictly adhered to these historical needs, the Convention remains a permanent symbol of heritage and style. Despite developing trends, resolution in the PLA button