Buttons

Definition

Buttons are small fasteners used to secure clothing, typically made from materials like metal, plastic, or wood. They play a crucial role in the construction and function of garments, providing both practical utility and decorative appeal, especially in the styles of the Early Medieval period. During this time, buttons evolved from simple toggles and fasteners to more intricate designs, reflecting the artistic and cultural shifts of the Romanesque and Gothic eras.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Buttons became more common in clothing during the Romanesque period (approximately 10th to 12th centuries) as garment construction evolved to allow for fitted styles.
2. The design of buttons transitioned from simple functional pieces to ornate decorative elements by the Gothic era (12th to 16th centuries), showcasing craftsmanship and artistry.
3. Different regions produced unique button styles based on local materials and cultural influences, making buttons an important part of regional dress.
4. In addition to their practical use, buttons served as status symbols; wealthier individuals often adorned their garments with elaborately designed buttons made from precious materials.
5. By the late Gothic period, buttons were used not only for fastening but also for embellishing clothing, with some garments featuring multiple buttons as decorative features.

Review Questions

• How did the use and design of buttons change from the Romanesque to the Gothic period?
  • In the Romanesque period, buttons were primarily functional, used to secure garments that began to fit closer to the body. As fashion evolved into the Gothic period, buttons became more elaborate in design, serving not only practical purposes but also as decorative elements. This shift reflected broader trends in craftsmanship and aesthetics during these times.
• Discuss the significance of buttons in relation to social status during the Early Medieval period.
  • Buttons served not just as fasteners but also as indicators of social status. Wealthy individuals often wore garments embellished with intricately designed buttons made from luxurious materials like gold or silver. This use of decorative buttons allowed wearers to express their wealth and rank within society, showing how even small details in clothing could communicate significant social information.
• Evaluate how the craftsmanship of buttons influenced overall fashion trends in Early Medieval costume design.
  • The craftsmanship involved in creating buttons greatly influenced fashion trends by introducing complexity and elegance into garment design. As artisans developed more sophisticated techniques for button-making during the Gothic period, clothing could be constructed with a variety of shapes, sizes, and embellishments. This allowed for greater creativity in fashion, encouraging styles that emphasized individuality and artistry while still serving practical functions.

Related terms

Fasteners: Items used to join or hold two pieces of fabric together, including hooks, zippers, and snaps.

Gothic Style: An architectural and artistic style that flourished in Europe during the High and Late Middle Ages, characterized by pointed arches and elaborate detailing, influencing costume design.

Romanesque Style: An earlier artistic style that preceded Gothic architecture, known for its solid structure and semi-circular arches, influencing the development of clothing during this period.