Fashion has become increasingly fluid, with traditional gender norms evolving rapidly. But despite these shifts, one small design feature has remained surprisingly consistent: the placement of buttons on shirts.
Take a quick look at your shirt. If you’re wearing a women’s style, the buttons are likely on the left. For men, they’re usually on the right. It’s a detail most people never question—but its origins trace back hundreds of years, with deeper cultural meaning than you might expect.
A Detail Rooted in History
While no one can pinpoint the exact origin of this design difference, fashion historians have pieced together several compelling theories.
One widely accepted explanation goes back to the 13th century, when buttons were first introduced and considered a luxury item. Wealthy women, especially in European aristocracy, often had personal maids who helped them dress. To make things easier for right-handed assistants facing their clients, buttons were placed on the left side of women’s garments.
By contrast, men—who were more likely to dress themselves—had buttons placed on the right, more convenient for the majority who were right-handed.
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