For anyone who often finds herself sporting a white shirt, the question of how to personalize the look is certainly a crucial one! So to really bring out the best in your top, and add a note of freshness, why not attach some original buttons? With this one trick, you can personalize your basics by giving them a touch of originality. And you don’t even need to be an expert in couture to give your outfits a makeover. Once you’ve chosen your buttons, simply stitch them onto your shirt. So here’s a quick run through of what this ‘makeover’ actually consists of, and how to choose your model and totally transform your white shirt into an item that’s one of a kind.
Choose your piece of clothing wisely
The white shirt featured above is by Caroll, in lightly striped, cotton voile. The two large patch pockets, in the style of Maison Margiela, give it that added charm. This shirt was bought in the sales for 40 €. When it comes to transforming a shirt, there are a few important rules to follow in terms of style and dimensions.
- Measure the buttonholes carefully before purchasing the model of your dreams. For a 10mm button, the buttonhole must be at least 12mm, i.e. 2mm more than the button – and ideally, 4mm. In general though, this will depend on the shape of the button and how bulky it is.
- If you choose a shank button, make sure that it is lightweight and also that the material to which you are attaching it is fairly thick. Avoid putting a nickel button on a silk shirt for example: the button may well pull on the shirt fabric and undermine the look.
- You don’t need to worry about the previous point for a sew-through button or a moulded-shank button, though. Once these buttons are stitched on, the thread will marry perfectly with the fabric.
- As for colour, prioritize contrasts. Avoid putting orange buttons on a red shirt, for example: as a general rule, try not to choose your buttons in a similar shade to that of the clothing.
- On the other hand, a white shirt will work well with any shade. The bolder the colour and style of the buttons, the more stylish your shirt will end up looking! So go ahead and be daring!
Glitz up your shirts with stylish and original buttons
Buttons Paradise has a large choice of sewing buttons in pearl, resin, metal, wood, glass, horn and ebony. There are graphic design styles, puzzle pieces and disco, 80s, ethnic, vintage or modern pieces. Here’s a selection of some of the buttons currently available:
French Code Button by Buttons Paradise
Opt for this model if you want to give your blouse a dressy look. The ebony button, with its Swarovski rhinestone (10mm), is the perfect way to add an element of sophistication to your white shirt.
Taupe Mother-of-pearl Puzzle Button by Buttons Paradise
For a unique shirt that is right on trend, opt for this taupe mother-of-pearl button in the shape of a puzzle piece (13mm). It is available in taupe or white.
Green Gray Square Shell Button by Buttons Paradise
To customize your blouse, you can also go for this model in pearl (generally 10-12mm diameter), the Binocular Ebony button or the Mother-of-pearl Sweetie button. Whatever the case, and whichever style you go for, don’t hesitate for a second longer! Go ahead and personalize all your white shirts and your plain basics. Take a few risks in your customizations, and really affirm your style and identity!
