It’s a tiny detail most of us never notice: men’s shirts button right-over-left, while women’s button left-over-right. But why? The answer lies in a mix of history, practicality, and old-fashioned gender roles.
One theory points to the Middle Ages, when buttons were a status symbol. Wealthy women had maids to dress them, so buttons were placed on the left for easier fastening by right-handed servants. Men, who dressed themselves, had buttons on the right.
Others argue it’s tied to warfare—men’s coats were designed for quick access to weapons, with right-side buttons allowing them to unbutton swiftly while drawing a sword. Women’s fashion, not built for battle, stuck with the left.
Though these reasons are outdated, the tradition persists in modern clothing. Some brands are now ditching gendered buttoning, but most still follow the old rule. Did you know about this? Take a peek in your closet—you might spot the difference!
