How Do You Spell BUTTON DOWNS?
Pronunciation: [bˈʌtən dˈa͡ʊnz] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [bˈʌtən dˈa͡ʊnz] (IPA)
Button downs refer to a type of collar found on dress shirts or blouses that are typically worn in formal or professional settings. This collar style is characterized by the presence of small buttons, usually two, on the points of the collar, allowing them to be fastened to the shirt. These buttons are positioned on the front side of the collar and can be secured or unbuttoned depending on the wearer's preference.
The purpose of button downs is to provide a neater and more refined appearance to the shirt. When buttoned, they help keep the collar points in place and prevent them from spreading outwards, thus giving a crisp and clean look. By fastening the buttons, the collar retains its shape and structure, creating a more formal and polished aesthetic.
Button downs are commonly associated with formal dress shirts, often made from high-quality fabrics such as cotton or linen. They are considered a traditional collar style and are frequently paired with suits, ties, or dress pants for business or formal occasions. However, button downs can also be found on more casual shirts or blouses, adding a touch of sophistication to everyday wear.
In summary, button downs are a type of collar featuring small buttons that fasten the points of the collar, creating a refined and polished look. They are commonly found on formal dress shirts but can also be seen on more casual clothing items.
The term "button downs" originated from the style of shirts known as "button-down shirts". The etymology of the word "button-down" dates back to the early 20th century.
In 1900, Brooks Brothers, an American clothing retailer, introduced a type of men's shirt that featured small buttons on the collar points, which were designed to fasten the collar to the shirt. This innovation helped to keep the collar in place and prevent it from curling or flapping. Initially, these shirts were called "polo collars" or "Eton collars", as they were inspired by the collars worn in polo matches or Eton College in England.
However, the term "button-down" gained popularity when John E. Brooks, the grandson of the founder of Brooks Brothers, attended a polo match at England's prestigious Oxford University in 1896.
