Buttons first appeared in Europe in the 13th century and were considered a luxury item. They were crafted from gold, silver, mother-of-pearl, ivory, or even precious stones.

Only high-society women could afford to decorate their clothing with them. Working-class people continued using fabric ties or wooden fasteners to close their garments.

From the very beginning, buttons became a symbol of social status and elegance, distinguishing aristocratic fashion from everyday attire.

Why Women’s Buttons Are on the Left

Women of the upper class did not dress themselves—they had servants to do it for them.
Because most people are right-handed, it was easier for a maid standing in front of her mistress to fasten buttons placed on the left side of the garment (from the wearer’s perspective).

This setup became a sign of privilege—a subtle indication that the wearer had someone else to dress her. Even after this practice faded, fashion continued the tradition as a nod to aristocratic customs.

Why Men’s Buttons Are on the Right

For men, the origin is completely different and largely tied to military needs.