Here's why men's and women's shirts button on the opposite sides

Have you ever wondered why different sexes had buttons on different sides of a shirt? As early as the middle ages, all buttons were on the same side, rather the gender of the outfit, but what made the fashion trend change? If you go into your closet right now you will find at least one article of clothing that obtains buttons. What side are they on? The left or the right? Then the next chance you get, grab one from someone of the opposite gender. Do you notice anything different? Women’s buttons are on the left side, while men’s are on the right. 
 
The reason is historical, says Melanie M. Moore, founder of women’s blouse brand Elizabeth & Clarke. “When buttons were invented in the 13th century they were, like most new technology, very expensive,” she says. “Wealthy women back then did not dress themselves — their lady’s maid did. Since most people were right-handed, this made it easier for someone standing across from you to button your dress.”  
 
Chapin cites an additional theory as to why this antiquated tradition has stood the test of time: “In the 1880s, it was fashionable for women’s clothing to look more traditionally masculine. However, it was illegal in many places to be dressed like a man in public, so perhaps having a difference in buttoning confirmed that you were wearing a female dress.”
 
Do your clothes match the 13th century trend that has been going on for generations or do your clothes have a 21st century twist? 
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