I'm predicting that this quirky micro-trend will be all over the place this fall.
I have a strong affinity for quirky or unexpected items, whether they are subversive or simply odd. From accessories to clothing, they always catch my attention. Recently, while shopping for unique fall items, both in stores and online, I’ve noticed a small, random micro-trend emerging: buttons. I can hear you questioning it: buttons are a standard, functional aspect of clothing. However, they are appearing oddly as purely decorative additions. During my shopping trip in NYC, I visited one of my favorite concept stores, Tumbao, which features a range of up-and-coming Latinx designers, including a brand named Grosera that specializes in button-inspired jewelry. The oversized silver earrings caught my eye, and as I continued shopping, I discovered more unusual button details that were not used in their traditional role as fasteners. More well-known brands like Paloma Wool also featured buttons in a similar fashion last year, with knit dresses, tops, and even shoes adorned with them. I remember wearing clothes with nonfunctional buttons as a child, but I assure you this current trend is far from childish; it’s sophisticated yet retains a playful charm. Fashion has a knack for reinventing itself, and this button micro-trend is its newest chapter. If you want to incorporate this fun detail into your wardrobe, keep scrolling to explore a selection of clothing and accessories.
**Nonfunctional Button Inspiration**
*(Image credit: Kerane Marcellus)*
**Paloma Wool S/S 24**
*(Image credit: Spotlight Launchmetrics)*
**Explore the Button Micro-Trend**
This top is the definition of stylish.
**Isshi**
Button You Up Linear Drop Earrings
I've had these on my mind all summer and might find them useful for fall events.
**Paloma Wool**
Folded Button Top
This top already has an offbeat design, but the buttons on the front are my favorite feature.
I purchased these earrings earlier this year and have loved them ever since.
This top is ideal for a vacation.
**Caspar The Label**
The Ballad Button Longsleeve
I wish this skirt wasn't sold out, but this top is still drawing me in.
**J.Crew**
Refined Rib Long-Sleeve T-Shirt With Button Cuffs
This top presents a subtle take on the trend.
**Isshi**
Button You Up Charm Bracelet
Try this bracelet if you're unsure about nonfunctional buttons being everywhere on your clothes.
**DEMYLEE NEW YORK**
Soleil Cotton Cardigan
This cardigan is sophisticated and versatile for the fall.
**MANOLO BLAHNIK**
Seleuka Button-Embellished Leather Point-Toe Flats
The nonfunctional button trend has even made its way to footwear.
I'm contemplating buying this necklace to coordinate with my button earrings.
**Doesn't Matter Seoul**
Full-Button Hoodie
This hoodie is impressively cool and unconventional. I can't get enough of it.
**Elisabetta Franchi**
Button-Embellished Jeans
These jeans would introduce an intriguing element to a simple outfit.
**Mugler**
Mugler – Long-Sleeve Button-Down Shirt
This long-sleeve shirt is finally on sale, and I might have to proceed to checkout.
**Isshi**
Button You Up Charm Necklace
This necklace embodies playfulness.
**Yohji Yamamoto**
Broad Short Sleeve Many Buttons Shirt
This button-down is definitely on my wishlist for splurging.
The appearance of these buttons being functional makes this top even cooler.
**K-Koncept**
The Buttons Skirt
If you're hesitant about the button trend, this skirt offers a subtle take on nonfunctional buttons.
**With Jéan**
Benny Top in Khaki
The button-trim, off-the-shoulder design is straightforward yet distinctive.
**Good American**
Poplin Off Shoulder Top
This top is perfect for a night out.
**STONE AND STRAND**
Button 14-Karat Gold Diamond Earrings
Button earrings in 14-karat gold? Yes, please.
If you're a fan of skorts, this one is for you.
**EDIKTED**
Button Trim Open Back Halter Top
Halter tops are still in style for fall.
**J.Crew**
Button-Trim Scoopback One-Piece Swimsuit
This would look fantastic as a bodysuit with jeans or paired with chocolate-brown wide-leg pants.
**J.Crew**
Button-Trim Midi Skirt in Ramie
This is a subtle interpretation of the nonfunctional button trend.
The gold buttons on this cap-sleeve top are incredibly chic.
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I'm predicting that this quirky micro-trend will be all over the place this fall.
This distinctive trend has been appearing increasingly on apparel and accessories for the fall season. Discover more about it and shop for it here.
