3. Why the Custom Still Exists
In a modern world without servants or swords, the persistence of this tradition may seem strange. The reason is simple: once a standard is established, it tends to stick.
During the Industrial Revolution, clothing manufacturers adopted these conventions for consistency and efficiency. Over time, consumers came to expect them. Changing such a deeply ingrained norm would require retooling production and retraining expectations, so designers largely maintain the status quo.
4. Does Button Placement Still Matter?
Functionally, no. Most people button their shirts by muscle memory without thinking about which side the buttons are on. Still, the detail serves as a subtle reminder of how history influences everyday objects.
While some contemporary and gender-neutral fashion brands have started to ignore these old rules, the majority of clothing still follows the traditional arrangement—quietly carrying centuries of custom forward.
Final Thought
The next time you fasten a shirt before heading out, take a moment to notice the buttons. You’re engaging in a practice shaped hundreds of years ago—one influenced by servants, weapons, and rigid social structures. Even the smallest design choice, like a button’s placement, can tell a story that spans generations.
