Archives

The industrialization of buttonwork highlighted by the World's Fairs and the proliferation of department stores made it possible to simplify the button and make it more accessible as a fashion accessory. In a context inherited from the Revolution, where fashion is no longer dictated by the Court but by a few groups of people or types such as the flâneur, the dandy, the Parisienne or the grisette, everyone can get precious buttons according to their financial means. Large houses are being created, such as those of Albert Parent, Mercier or Cléret in Méru and, at the same time, a new concept of luxury is being set up which is no longer anonymous but identifies with brand names. In the nineteenth century, the button is no longer a sign of distinction between social classes, since it is affordable for all, but it ensures the passage between the "world" and the "half-world" to use Balzac’s words. In other words, between the real bourgeoisie and the ones who wish to become part of it.