National Button Day: The Quirky US Holiday To Celebrate An Underrated Fashion Staple

National Button Day is celebrated in the US on November 16 to recognise the often-overlooked importance of buttons in fashion and history.

Celebrate Button Day by starting a collection.

Source : ABPLIVE AI

Did you know there is a day to "honour" the buttons on your clothes? Yes, you read it right! National Button Day is celebrated on November 16. It's a quirky holiday that pays homage to one of the most underrated fashion staples.

Think about it. How many times have you even consciously noticed that you are fastening buttons? Do you even know how many buttons there are on the shirts you wear to the office or school every day?

And trust the US to come up with something as quirky as this and actually make it a "thing". This day, established by the National Button Society (Illinois) in 1938, invites you to appreciate buttons not just as fasteners but as delightful collectables and creative materials. The "mission" of the National Button Society states that it aims "to promote educational exhibits, encourage research, publish and disseminate information, and preserve for future generations all that is beautiful and historic in buttons. To learn more, click the Membership link at the top of the page."

Button's Journey Through The Centuries

Buttons have been around for a really long time in various forms. They were originally crafted from materials like wood, clay, and shells. Over the centuries, they evolved into decorative items and status symbols. In fact, some buttons became so popular that they were even referred to as "the devil's snare" by the church due to their use in women's fashion. 

The invention of the sewing machine in 1855 revolutionised button attachment, making it easier than ever to secure garments and sparking a surge in button usage during the Civil War. Today, buttons come in an endless variety of shapes, colours, and styles — from classic pearly whites to whimsical animal shapes — making them perfect for both practical use and creative expression.

How to Celebrate Button Day

There are countless ways to celebrate this charming day

Start a collection: Dig through your drawers for old buttons or visit a thrift store to find unique pieces. You might discover vintage treasures or quirky designs that spark joy.
Crafting Fun: Use your buttons for crafting! Create button art, embellish clothing, or even make jewellery. The only limit is your imagination — buttons can transform mundane items into unique fashion statements.
Button Upcycling: Revive an old shirt by replacing its buttons with something more stylish. This eco-friendly practice not only updates your wardrobe but also gives you a sense of accomplishment.
Family Activities: Gather the kids for a fun afternoon of button sorting or crafting. Just be sure to keep small buttons away from little mouths!