In the world of fashion, buttons are often unsung heroes, working behind the scenes to hold our outfits together while often adding a dash of style or an element of surprise. But what exactly is a button?
In its simplest form, a button is a small fastener, typically made from various materials like plastic, metal, wood, or even glass, used to combine two pieces of fabric. They come in many shapes, sizes, and styles, each designed to serve a unique purpose.
But buttons are a far more essential part of clothing and accessories that contribute significantly to the overall style and aesthetics. They can be a subtle addition to a garment or a standout accessory, transforming an ordinary piece of clothing into something extraordinary.
Be it the large, statement buttons on a trench coat, the delicate pearl buttons on a wedding dress, or the sturdy metal buttons on your favorite pair of jeans, each button plays a part in defining the garment’s identity.
So next time you button up, take a moment to appreciate these tiny fashion marvels. They might be small, but their influence on our wardrobes is anything but insignificant.
History Of Buttons In The Fashion World
Although buttons might seem commonplace today, their history in fashion is rich and fascinating. It’s believed that buttons have been around since the Bronze Age, but they were initially used more for ornamental purposes than fastening clothing.
In the Middle Ages, buttons started gaining functionality when they began being used to create fitted clothing in Europe. Button-making was considered a craft, and artisans would painstakingly create each button by hand.
These buttons are made from bone, wood, metal, and even gemstones. The industrial revolution in the 18th and 19th centuries, with the advent of machinery, brought about mass production of buttons, significantly reducing their cost and increasing availability.
This led to the widespread use of buttons in various garments, from shirts and coats to gloves and boots. Over time, the button has evolved and adapted to changing fashion trends and technological advancements.
Despite this, its basic function has remained consistent: to fasten clothing while adding a touch of design and style. It’s a testament to the enduring utility and timeless appeal of buttons in fashion.
Classification Of Buttons By Material
Plastic Buttons: These are some of the most common buttons in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Plastic buttons are versatile, durable, and affordable, perfect staple in high fashion and everyday wear.
Metal Buttons: From brass to sterling silver, metal buttons add a touch of sophistication and durability to garments. Due to their sturdy nature, they’re great for jeans, jackets, and military uniforms.
Wood Buttons: Offering a rustic, natural look, wood buttons are often used in crafts and clothing like sweaters and coats. Each button is unique, reflecting the grain and color of the wood from which it was made.
Shell Buttons: These are crafted from natural shells, giving each button a unique texture and sheen. Shell buttons like those made from mother-of-pearl add an elegant touch to clothing.
Fabric-Covered Buttons: These buttons cover a plastic or metal base with fabric, often matching the attached garment. They offer a seamless look, often used in formal wear or upholstery.
Glass Buttons: Once a staple of the Victorian era, glass buttons add a vintage charm to garments. They can be clear, colored, or contain intricate designs within the glass itself.
Ceramic Buttons: Handcrafted and painted, ceramic buttons are small art pieces. While less durable than other types, they’re often used on handmade clothing or as decorative elements.
Bone And Horn Buttons: These buttons have been used for centuries, crafted from the by-products of animals. Bone and horn buttons have a natural look, each with unique color variations.
Classification Of Buttons By Function
Decorative Buttons: These buttons primarily serve aesthetic purposes and are used to embellish a garment. They may not necessarily aid in fastening or closing an item of clothing but add a stylistic touch.
Functional Buttons: As the name suggests, functional buttons are primarily used for securing a piece of clothing or accessory. They can be found on everything from shirt fronts to coat closures, providing a practical way to open and close the garment.
Combined Function Buttons: These buttons straddle the line between form and function, serving as functional closures and decorative elements. These buttons hold the garment together and enhance its overall appearance, contributing to its style and design.
40 Different Types Of Buttons Used In Clothes And Accessories
1. Shank Buttons
These buttons feature a small loop (or “shank”) at the back, through which thread is sewn to attach the button to the fabric. This design allows the button to sit slightly off the fabric, making it an excellent choice for thick or loosely woven materials.
2. Flat Or Sew-Through Buttons
These are the most widely recognized buttons with two or four holes punched through the button. They are simple to attach, sewn directly onto the fabric through these holes. They come in various colors, sizes, and designs, making them incredibly versatile.
3. Snap Buttons
Also known as press studs, these buttons comprise two snap discs. They provide a smooth look and are commonly used in Western shirts, children’s clothing, and lightweight jackets because they’re easy to open and close.
4. Mandarin Or Chinese Frog Buttons
Traditional to Chinese garments, these buttons are handmade using a cord or braid. They often feature intricate knotting and looping designs and are used in combination with a loop fastener.
5. Toggle Buttons
These buttons are typically wood or plastic and feature a distinct long shape reminiscent of a small baton. Often used on heavy outerwear like duffle coats and paired with a loop of rope, cord, or leather, they provide a secure closure and a unique aesthetic.
6. Military Or Uniform Buttons
These buttons often bear the insignia or symbol of a particular regiment or military unit. They’re designed to endure rough conditions and frequent use and are typically made of durable metals like brass or steel.
7. Jeans Buttons
These buttons are commonly seen on jeans and are composed of a tack and a separate button cover, usually made of metal. They provide a robust and sturdy closure suitable for heavy denim fabric.
8. Cufflinks
Cufflinks are a type of button used to secure the cuffs of dress shirts. They are typically made from metal and often feature decorative elements. Cufflinks allow you a more formal and sophisticated look compared to regular buttons.
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9. Covered Buttons
These buttons are covered in the same fabric as the garment, creating a seamless, coordinated look. They are often seen on wedding dresses, formal wear, and upholstery, adding an elegant and customized touch.
10. Stud Buttons
These are typically small, dome-shaped buttons that fit into a buttonhole but do not go through the fabric. Often used in formal wear, they are usually attached to the garment at one end and slot into a buttonhole at the other.
11. Duffle Coat Buttons
These are large toggle buttons often made of wood or bone and used on duffle coats. They are perfect to pair with heavy rope or cord loops. They create a distinctive, rustic look and robust closure.
12. Bachelor Buttons Or Cuff Buttons
These temporary buttons can be moved from one garment to another without sewing. Often used for fastening cuffs or making quick repairs, they’re a perfect solution for temporary fastening needs.
13. Ball Buttons
These round buttons are typically used for decorative purposes or in uniform attire. They can be made from various materials and provide a neat, polished look.
14. Fish Eye Buttons
These buttons are typically flat or sew-through with a colored ring around the holes, making them look like a fish’s eye. They are often used on casual shirts and children’s clothing.
15. Waistcoat Buttons
Traditionally used on waistcoats, these buttons are often ornate and made of precious metals in higher-end garments. They add a sophisticated touch to formal attire.
16. Inset Buttons
This decorative style features one button set within another, larger one. The contrasting colors or materials can create an eye-catching design, making these buttons a great choice for decorative purposes.
17. Cloth Knot Or Dorset Buttons
This traditional type of button features a ring covered in a web of thread or yarn. They are often handmade for crafts or homemade clothing, adding a touch of rustic charm.
18. Satsuma Buttons
These are small, ornate ceramic buttons that originated from Japan. Often intricately painted, they are considered art pieces typically used for decorative purposes.
19. Crocheted Buttons
These buttons are handmade using crochet techniques and are often used for crafts or homemade clothes. They can be made in various colors and patterns, allowing for high customization.
20. Leather Buttons
These buttons, made from real or faux leather, are commonly found on leather jackets, coats, or rustic-style clothing. They add a touch of rugged charm and are typically very durable.
21. Mother Of Pearl Buttons
These buttons are made from the inner layer of pearl oysters and offer a lustrous, elegant look. They are often used on high-end shirts or blouses and add a touch of luxury to any garment.
22. Rhinestone Buttons
These are decorative buttons adorned with small, sparkly rhinestones. Often used on formal wear or for craft embellishments, they are great to add a touch of glamor and shine.
23. Velvet Buttons
These buttons are covered in plush velvet, often found on evening wear or upholstery. They offer a soft texture and a rich, luxurious look.
24. Coconut Shell Buttons
These buttons are made from the shell of a coconut, offering a unique, natural look. They’re an eco-friendly option that adds a touch of rustic charm to any garment.
25. Polyester Buttons
Made from durable polyester, these buttons are resistant to damage and are widely used in various clothing types. They’re available in multiple colors and styles, making them versatile and practical.
26. Agoya Shell Buttons
Made from Agoya shells, these buttons have a beautiful luster and are often used on lightweight, delicate clothing. They’re typically thin, making them less suitable for heavy fabrics.
27. Enamel Buttons
These are often metal buttons coated with enamel in various colors. They offer a glossy finish and are used for their colorful aesthetic and durability.
28. Gripper Snaps
These are heavy-duty snap buttons used in workwear and outerwear. They are designed to withstand heavy use and are typically made of sturdy metal.
29. Horn Buttons
These buttons are made from real or faux animal horns. They offer a unique, natural look, each with unique color variations. They’re commonly used in tailored suits and blazers.
30. Corozo Buttons
These buttons are natural, sustainable, and durable, made from the Tagua palm nut. They offer a unique grain and texture, adding a touch of eco-friendly elegance to a garment.
31. Galalith Buttons
These buttons are made from Galalith, a synthetic plastic material made from milk protein and formaldehyde. They are hard, durable, and can be dyed in various colors.
32. Bakelite Buttons
These vintage buttons are made from Bakelite, one of the first synthetic plastics. They are often found in vintage or retro-style clothing and can be quite collectible.
33. Acrylic Buttons
Made from acrylic material, these buttons are lightweight, durable, and available in various colors and shapes. They offer a versatile choice for a variety of garments.
34. Bone Buttons
Traditionally made from bone, these buttons have a unique, natural look. They add a rustic or vintage touch to any garment and are typically quite durable.
35. Fabric Knot Buttons
These buttons are made by tying fabric into a knot. They’re often found on chef’s uniforms and traditional Chinese clothing, adding an element of understated style.
36. Laser Etched Buttons
These buttons feature intricate designs that are etched onto the surface with a laser. They offer a high level of detail and precision, making them perfect for decorative purposes.
37. Beaded Buttons
Decorative buttons adorned with tiny beads. They’re often used as embellishments on crafts or garments, adding a touch of sparkle and texture.
38. Pearlized Buttons
These buttons have a finish that makes them look like pearls, adding a sophisticated touch to garments. They’re often used on shirts, blouses, and formal wear.
39. Metal Embossed Buttons
These are metal buttons that feature a raised or embossed design. They add a touch of elegance and are often used on uniforms, formal wear, or as decorative accents.
40. Diamond Buttons
These decorative buttons are used on luxury garments and are often encrusted with real or faux diamonds. They offer a touch of glamor and luxury, adding a standout detail to any garment.
The Art Of Choosing The Right Button For Your Clothes
Selecting the perfect button for your clothing can seem like a minute detail, but it plays a significant role in your attire’s overall look and functionality. From matching the button size to the fabric type, choosing the right button style, and balancing functionality and aesthetics, each aspect requires careful consideration.
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Matching Button Size To Fabric Type
The first aspect to consider when choosing a button is its size. The button size should correspond to the thickness and weight of the fabric. For instance, larger, sturdier buttons are generally preferred for thick materials such as denim or wool, while smaller, delicate buttons are better suited for fine fabrics like silk or chiffon.
In other words, the button should provide enough strength to hold the material together without overwhelming it visually.
Choosing The Right Button Style
Button style is a significant element affecting the garment’s overall aesthetics. The button style should be in harmony with the clothing style.
For example, an ornate gold button might look out of place on a casual flannel shirt but could be perfect for a formal coat or blazer. Similarly, a quirky, colorful button could add personality to a casual outfit but might need to be more appropriate for formal or professional clothing.
Also, remember that the garment’s function can dictate the button style – jeans buttons for denim, cufflinks for dress shirts, and so on.
Considering Functionality Vs. Aesthetics
While it’s essential to select buttons that enhance the overall look of a garment, it’s equally crucial to consider their functionality. The primary purpose of a button is to fasten the clothing securely. Therefore, it should be durable and easy to fasten and unfasten.
Consider the user and the purpose of the clothing when deciding between functionality and aesthetics. For example, clothes for young children or older people might require larger, easy-to-handle buttons, even if they might not be the most stylish.
Conversely, for a decorative item or a piece of clothing that won’t see heavy use, you can prioritize aesthetics and choose a button that might be less functional but offers a stunning visual appeal.
Ultimately, choosing the right button comes down to balancing these factors to achieve the perfect combination of style and function that suits the specific garment and its user.
A Quick Recap
Buttons are vital in fashion beyond simply fastening clothes. From different materials and functions to various designs and styles, buttons add personality and aesthetic value to our clothing and accessories. The long history of buttons in fashion is a testament to their utility and enduring appeal.
Moreover, choosing the right button involves carefully considering various factors such as size, style, functionality, and clothing fabric. By understanding these elements, one can truly appreciate the nuanced role of buttons in fashion and make informed choices that enhance any garment’s visual appeal and practicality.
Next time you button up your shirt or fasten your coat, take a moment to appreciate the humble button – an often overlooked but integral part of your attire!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Most Durable Types Of Buttons For Everyday Wear?
For everyday wear, metal, polyester, and coconut shell buttons are considered highly durable due to their resistance to damage.
How Are Buttons Typically Attached To Clothing?
Buttons are usually sewn onto clothes using a needle and thread, although some types, like snap buttons and jeans buttons, are affixed using special tools or machines.
Which Buttons Are Considered High-End Or Luxurious?
Mother of pearl, diamond, and gold or silver metal buttons are often considered more luxurious due to their material and overall aesthetic.
Can Buttons Be Easily Replaced On Clothing?
Yes, you can generally replace buttons quite easily. All you need is a matching button, needle, and thread. However, certain types, like snap buttons or jeans buttons, might require a special tool for replacement.
What Are Environmentally Friendly Button Options?
Coconut shells, corozo, and buttons made from other natural materials like wood or bone are environmentally friendly options. They’re biodegradable and use resources that are renewable or waste products.
Are There Buttons Suitable For People With Limited Dexterity?
Larger and snap buttons are typically easier for people with limited dexterity to handle and operate, making them a practical choice.
Why Do Some Shirts Have An Extra Button Sewn On The Inside?
The extra button sewn inside shirts is for replacement purposes. If you lose a button, you already have a perfect match to replace it.
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