Most people never stop to think about it, but there’s a consistent difference between men’s and women’s shirts: the buttons are placed on opposite sides. Women’s shirts typically button on the left, while men’s button on the right. It may seem random, but this detail has deep historical roots.
The tradition dates back to the 18th and 19th centuries, when clothing was closely tied to social class and daily customs. Wealthy women often did not dress themselves. Their garments were elaborate, layered, and required assistance from maids. Since most people were right-handed, it was easier for a maid standing in front of her employer to fasten buttons placed on the left side of the woman’s clothing.
