National Button Day

National Button Day is observed every year on November 16 in the United States. The holiday celebrates buttons as practical fasteners, decorative objects, historical artifacts, and collectibles. Although small and easy to overlook, buttons have played an important role in clothing and design for thousands of years.

History of National Button Day

National Button Day was established in 1938 by the National Button Society, an organization devoted to the study and collection of buttons. The observance encourages people to appreciate their craftsmanship, materials, designs, and historical significance.

Early buttons appeared thousands of years ago, although many of the oldest examples were probably used as ornaments rather than fasteners. Functional button-and-buttonhole systems became more common in Europe during the Middle Ages.

Over time, buttons were made from materials such as shell, bone, wood, metal, glass, ceramic, horn, fabric, and plastic. Their size, shape, decoration, and materials can provide clues about the period and culture in which they were produced.

Interesting Facts About National Button Day

• The National Button Society was founded in the United States in 1938.
• Some ancient buttons were used as decoration rather than to fasten clothing.
• Buttons can be made from natural, manufactured, or recycled materials.
• Military and uniform buttons often display symbols connected with a regiment, organization, or profession.
• Button-down shirt collars became popular in the late 19th century.
• Collectors may organize buttons by age, material, design, maker, or historical theme.
• Antique buttons can offer information about fashion, technology, trade, and social history.

How to Take Part in National Button Day

Celebrate National Button Day by examining the buttons on your clothing, visiting a museum collection, or learning how buttons were made in different historical periods. You can start a small collection, replace a missing button, create a craft project, or ask family members whether they have any unusual or inherited buttons with a story behind them.

When Is National Button Day in 2026?

National Button Day is observed on November 16 each year.

Observations