One of the most widely accepted explanations goes back to wealthy women during the 18th and 19th centuries.
At that time, upper-class women often did not dress themselves alone.
Many wealthy women had servants or maids who helped them:
- put on dresses
- fasten corsets
- arrange layers of fabric
- button clothing
Because most servants were right-handed, clothing makers designed women’s buttons on the opposite side to make dressing easier for the person standing in front of them.
Men’s Clothing Developed Differently
Men’s clothing followed a very different path.
Historically, men were expected to dress themselves independently.
Most men also carried weapons such as:
- swords
- pistols
- military gear
Because most people are right-handed, placing buttons on the right side made it easier for men to:
- open jackets quickly
- access weapons faster
- move fabric aside comfortably
Why The Tradition Still Exists Today
Continued On Next Page
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