Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-03-20 16:36:10
The fashion industry has long adhered to a traditional practice of differentiating the buttons on shirts based on gender. It may come as a surprise to many consumers that shirts for men have buttons on the right side, while women’s shirts have buttons on the left. This distinction is not arbitrary; it has its roots in a centuries-old tradition that dates back to the 13th century.
According to a report by HuffPost, the practice of button placement can be traced back to the medieval period when buttons first came into existence. During this time, buttons were considered a luxury item reserved for the wealthy elite. Women in particular took great pride in adorning themselves with grandiose gowns that featured buttons made of precious materials such as silver, gold, or ivory.
Putting on these elaborate gowns was often seen as an event, and women would require assistance from servants or attendants to don their garments. To make it easier for the helpers, buttons were sewn on the left side of the garment. In contrast, men’s clothing typically featured buttons on the right side, as men were more likely to dress themselves and found it more convenient to have the buttons positioned in that direction.
Scott Liebenberg, CEO of Tapered Menswear, explained that the placement of buttons was influenced by the practicality of dressing oneself. In the past, wealthy women would have maids to help them dress, and having buttons on the left side facilitated the process for a right-handed helper. Furthermore, women’s garments at the time were often heavy and comprised multiple layers, making it necessary for attendants to quickly and efficiently assist with dressing and undressing.
As the fashion industry evolved and buttons became more standardized and mass-produced, the tradition of button placement based on gender remained intact. Even as buttons transitioned from luxury materials like silver and gold to more affordable plastics, the industry held onto these historical practices. Today, we still see men’s shirts with buttons on the right side and women’s shirts with buttons on the left, a tradition that has stood the test of time.
In conclusion, the placement of buttons on shirts based on gender is a relic of centuries-old traditions that have been passed down through generations. While the practical reasons for this distinction may no longer be relevant in modern times, it serves as a reminder of the rich history and cultural significance behind even the smallest details in fashion.
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