Types of Buttons Used in Garments: A–Z Guide to Materials & Styles Gurkha Pants

Introduction: Why Buttons Matter in Fashion & Tailoring

Buttons may be small, but they affect how a garment looks, closes, and performs in everyday use. The right button complements the fabric and design; a poorly matched one can make even a well-made shirt, jacket, or coat feel unfinished.

When choosing buttons, consider the garment’s purpose, fabric weight, fastening method, care instructions, and overall style. A button for lightweight shirting has different needs from one used on denim or a heavy overcoat.

Durability and secure fastening
Comfort against the body
Ease of dressing and repair
Visual finish and perceived quality
Suitability for the garment’s care routine

This A–Z guide introduces common button materials and constructions, where they are often used, and what to check before choosing them. Names sometimes describe a material, while others describe a shape, attachment method, or decorative finish.

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A-Z of Different Types of Buttons

Button names can overlap: for example, a shank button may be made from metal, resin, or another material. Use the descriptions below as a practical guide rather than as a strict manufacturing classification.

A – Acrylic Buttons

Acrylic buttons are lightweight, moulded fasteners that can have a glossy, translucent, or colourful finish. They can offer a glass-like look at a lower weight, but quality varies by formulation and construction.

Common uses

Casual shirts and dresses
Children’s clothing when the design and safety requirements are appropriate
Decorative details on fashion garments

Key features

Available in many colours, shapes, and finishes
Usually lightweight and easy to coordinate
Check heat tolerance, scratch resistance, and wash-care guidance before use

B – Bone Buttons

Bone buttons are made from animal bone and have a natural grain that can give tailored or handcrafted garments an individual appearance. Their colour and markings vary, so matching a set perfectly may be difficult.

Traditional or heritage-inspired garments
Selected jackets and handcrafted pieces
Garments where a natural material suits the design

Distinctive organic pattern
Classic, understated appearance
Confirm the material source and care requirements before purchasing

C – Coconut Shell Buttons

Coconut shell buttons use processed shell material, often retaining natural brown tones and grain. They suit designs that call for an earthy finish, although individual buttons may vary in colour and texture.

Linen or cotton shirts
Casual kurtas and relaxed garments
Summer clothing and craft projects

Natural-looking surface
Generally light in weight
Check hole finish and wash instructions; natural material may need gentler care

D – Decorative Buttons

Decorative buttons are selected mainly for their visual effect. They may feature unusual shapes, contrasting colours, embroidery, stones, or distinctive surfaces, and may be functional or used only as trim.

Coats and jackets
Dresses and occasionwear
Designer garments and accessories

Wide choice of shapes and finishes
Can become a focal point
Check that embellishments are secure and the button does not make the garment uncomfortable

E – Enamel Buttons

Enamel buttons typically have a metal base with a coloured glass-like enamel coating. They can create a polished, colourful finish on garments where a decorative metal detail is desired.

Blazers and fashion jackets
Selected uniforms and statement garments
Occasionwear

Smooth, glossy finish
Colour and design options vary
Inspect the coating and edges for chips, and follow the garment’s care instructions

F – Flat Buttons

Flat buttons sit close to the garment and commonly have two or four holes for sewing. They are one of the most familiar fastening types and are available in plastic, resin, metal, shell, and many other materials.

Shirts and blouses
Trousers and lightweight jackets
Kurtas and everyday clothing

Low-profile design
Straightforward to sew on or replace
Choose hole size, thickness, and strength to match the fabric and thread

G – Glass Buttons

Glass buttons can be transparent, coloured, faceted, or polished to reflect light. They are usually chosen for decorative appeal and may be heavier or more fragile than everyday plastic buttons.

Bridal and occasionwear
Decorative blouses and dresses
Costumes and special projects

Distinctive reflective surface
Can create a jewellery-like detail
Check for sharp edges, weight, and breakage risk before use

H – Horn Buttons

Horn buttons are made from animal horn and are valued for their natural tonal variation and grain. They are often associated with traditional tailoring, but synthetic alternatives can imitate their appearance.

Suits and blazers
Overcoats and tailored outerwear
Classic, heritage-inspired garments

Natural variation makes each button slightly different
Often suits wool and textured fabrics
Confirm the material and source; avoid assuming that a horn-look button is genuine horn

I – Invisible Buttons

Invisible buttons are designed to be hidden from view or covered by a placket, flap, or layer of fabric. The exact construction varies, so the garment pattern determines how the fastening works.

Concealed shirt or blouse plackets
Minimalist dresses
Garments that need a clean front

Keeps the outside appearance simple
Can reduce visible hardware
Test that the concealed fastening is secure and easy to open

J – Jeans Buttons

Jeans buttons are sturdy fasteners designed for denim waistbands and other heavy areas. Many are metal tack buttons secured with a matching stud, rather than sewn on like ordinary buttons.

Jeans and denim skirts
Denim jackets
Selected workwear trousers

Designed for thicker fabric layers
Often attached with a tack or stud
Use the correct replacement size and installation method to avoid damaging denim

K – Knot Buttons

Knot buttons are formed from cord, fabric, or thread into a compact knot or loop. They can be practical fasteners and also add a handcrafted detail to traditional or contemporary clothing.

Traditional garments
Asian-inspired designs and occasionwear
Handmade clothing and craft projects

Soft, tactile appearance
Can coordinate with fabric or contrast with it
Check knot security and make sure the loop fits the fastening point

L – Leather Buttons

Leather buttons may be made from layered leather or from a core covered in leather. Their matte surface and texture work well with casual and rugged clothing, though moisture and cleaning methods can affect them.

Jackets and coats
Rustic or heritage-inspired outerwear
Selected knitwear and casual garments

Distinctive texture
Can coordinate with leather details
Check thickness, edge finishing, and care compatibility before sewing them on

M – Metal Buttons

Metal buttons may be made from brass, steel, zinc alloys, or other metals. They can be plain and functional or highly decorative, with finishes such as polished, brushed, antique, or coated.

Blazers and structured jackets
Uniforms and workwear
Denim and statement outerwear

Strong visual presence
Available in many shapes and finishes
Consider weight, corrosion resistance, skin sensitivity, and the garment’s washing instructions

N – Nylon Buttons

Nylon buttons are made from a synthetic polymer and are commonly chosen for practical garments. Their strength, flexibility, and finish depend on the specific material and manufacturing process.

Sportswear and casual clothing
Uniforms and utility garments
Everyday shirts and outerwear

Often lightweight
Can be suitable for regular laundering when specified for it
Check heat tolerance, button thickness, and care-label requirements

O – Overcoat Buttons

Overcoat buttons are a use-based category rather than a single material. They are often larger or thicker than shirt buttons so they are easier to handle and can suit heavier cloth.

Wool overcoats
Heavy jackets
Cold-weather outerwear

Should suit the weight and thickness of the coat
May use a shank to provide room for thick fabric
Check the attachment strength and button diameter before replacement

P – Pearl Buttons

Pearl buttons may be made from natural shell or from imitation materials designed to give a pearly sheen. They are often chosen for their smooth surface and subtle light reflection.

Shirts and blouses
Bridal or occasion garments
Lightweight fashion clothing

Elegant, reflective finish
Natural shell may show variation
Confirm whether the button is real shell or imitation, and follow suitable care instructions

Q – Quilted Buttons

The term quilted button is used for buttons that are fabric-covered, padded, or selected to coordinate with quilted garments. Construction varies, so check the specific button design rather than assuming every example is made the same way.

Quilted jackets and coats
Padded outerwear
Fabric-covered garment details

Can coordinate with the garment’s surface
May create a soft or matching finish
Make sure the fastening is secure and does not pull on the outer fabric

R – Resin Buttons

Resin buttons are moulded from synthetic resin and can imitate the look of horn, wood, stone, or other materials. They are used widely because they offer many colours, shapes, and finishes.

Shirts, dresses, and blouses
Jackets and coats
Garments that need a specific colour match

Versatile design options
Can be made in a range of weights and finishes
Check heat tolerance and durability for the intended care routine

S – Shank Buttons

Shank buttons have a loop or stem on the back instead of sewing holes through the face. The space behind the button helps it sit over thicker fabric or layered garment edges.

Coats and blazers
Formal jackets and selected traditional garments
Thicker fabrics where a flat button may sit too tightly

Creates space between button and fabric
Can help a button sit neatly over layers
Sew through the shank securely and choose a thread suited to the garment weight

T – Toggle Buttons

Toggle fastenings use an elongated bar or shaped piece that passes through a loop. They are commonly associated with duffle coats and casual outerwear, where the fastening becomes part of the garment’s look.

Duffle coats
Winter jackets
Casual outerwear

Easy to grip with gloves
Distinctive, functional appearance
Check the loop strength and toggle length so it fastens securely

U – Utility Buttons

Utility buttons are chosen primarily for reliable fastening rather than decoration. They may be made from durable plastic, metal, or another material suitable for the garment’s use and care requirements.

Workwear and uniforms
Outdoor clothing
Practical everyday garments

Simple, functional design
Must match the garment’s expected wear
Check resistance to washing, heat, and repeated pulling

V – Velvet Buttons

Velvet buttons are usually covered in velvet or a similar pile fabric. Their soft surface adds texture and can coordinate with eveningwear, tailored pieces, and decorative garments.

Tuxedos and occasion jackets
Selected traditional or formal outfits
Decorative details on dresses and coats

Soft, rich-looking finish
Can match or contrast with the garment fabric
Check the covering and cleaning instructions, as pile fabrics may need gentle care

W – Wooden Buttons

Wooden buttons have a natural grain and warm appearance. They are often used on casual or craft-inspired clothing, and their finish can range from raw and matte to polished or dyed.

Casual shirts and knitwear
Ethnic-inspired and handmade clothing
Garments with natural fibres or earthy colours

Distinctive grain and colour variation
Often light, depending on size and wood type
Check sealing, smooth edges, and wash-care suitability before use

X – X-Stitched Buttons

X-stitched describes a sewing method in which the thread crosses in an X shape over or through the button holes. It is a way to attach a button, not a separate material.

Shirts and casual garments
Hand-sewn repairs
Projects where visible stitching suits the design

Provides a clear stitch pattern
Can secure a button when sewn correctly
Use suitable thread and leave enough room for the fabric thickness

Y – Yarn Buttons

Yarn buttons are made by wrapping or knotting yarn around a base or forming a small textile shape. They are useful for handmade pieces where a soft, coordinated finish is preferred.

Handmade garments
Knitted or crocheted clothing
Artisan and craft projects

Soft, textile-based appearance
Can match the yarn or garment colour
Check that the shape holds and the button withstands the intended washing method

Z – Zipper-Support Buttons

The phrase zipper-support button is not a widely standardised button category. In some garments, a button or snap may supplement a zipper, helping keep a waistband, flap, or front closure secure. Check the garment’s actual construction to identify the right replacement.

Some trousers and jackets with combined closures
Outerwear with a zip-and-button front
Repair projects where the original fastening includes more than one component

Provides a secondary fastening where designed for it
Must align with the zipper and garment closure
Use the original size and placement; do not add a button where it could interfere with the zipper

How to Choose the Right Button for Your Garment

Match the button’s weight and size to the fabric; heavy buttons can pull on lightweight cloth.
Choose a colour and finish that either blends with the garment or creates an intentional contrast.
Check washing, dry-cleaning, heat, and moisture requirements before selecting a material.
For everyday clothing, prioritise secure attachment and easy replacement.
For premium tailoring, consider the button’s surface, thickness, edge finish, and how it complements the fabric.

Garment type	Button options to consider	What to check
Dress shirt	Flat, lightweight resin, or shell-style	Low weight, smooth holes, wash care
Suit or blazer	Horn-look resin, horn, metal, or shank	Style, thickness, and secure attachment
Denim jeans	Metal tack button	Correct stud, size, and installation
Heavy overcoat	Large flat or shank button	Room for thick fabric and strong stitching
Decorative garment	Enamel, glass, pearl-style, or fabric-covered	Weight, edge finish, and secure embellishment

Before sewing a button on, align it with the buttonhole and test the fastening. For thicker fabrics, leave enough thread space for the layers to sit comfortably. On denim tack buttons, use the correct hardware rather than ordinary sewing thread.

Conclusion

Buttons influence both the function and finish of clothing. Material, size, shape, attachment method, and care needs all matter, whether you are choosing a simple shirt button, a sturdy denim tack, or a decorative fastener for a coat.

Use the A–Z list as a starting point, then check the garment’s fabric, fastening design, and care label. The best button is the one that looks appropriate, closes securely, and remains practical for the way the garment will be worn.

Quick decision	Good starting point	Remember
Everyday shirt	Flat, lightweight button	Comfort and easy washing
Tailored jacket	Shank or classic flat button	Match the fabric and style
Heavy denim	Purpose-made jeans button	Correct hardware is essential
Statement detail	Decorative or metal button	Balance appearance with weight