What to do with your vintage buttons

Who knew that 300 years ago your sartorial success could literally hang by a thread? That’s because for centuries, the quality of a button subtly revealed the wealth, power and position of the wearer. The more ornate, the higher the status. But since mass production and the advent of the zipper, the business of buttons has, inevitably, lost some of its brilliance; of course, that means that most vintage buttons are as low priced as they are ubiquitous. We love the treasure hunt of each new find—1880s glass-domed shank buttons (the kind with a loop on the back) or 1940s Bakelite four-hole versions, we’re not picky. Choose from a million possibilities, and their adaptability in fresh, fun new dec-orating ideas for every season.

What to look for
Shank buttons are an older form than holed versions. Real jet Victorian buttons, gilt buttons and novelty buttons that contain visual riddles,
for example, are particularly prized.

Idea 1 (shown above)
String complementary buttons onto medium-gauge wire and twist into a loop for a novel take on the wine glass charm. Use different colour schemes, shapes—even monograms—depending on your party theme.