As a distinctive feature of traditional Chinese apparel, Chinese knot button is still highly visible on garments like the cheongsam, adding exquisite flavor to the traditional garment.
The history of knot buttons can be dated back to the prehistoric era, when ropes were first used as a primitive form of belts. The earliest written records are from the Zhou Dynasty nearly three thousand years ago. In the 4th century BC, the knot button took its present form and remained mainly unchanged until the Qing Dynasty. A change of style in the early Qing Dynasty is considered a turning point in the use of knot buttons. Back then, jackets and cheongsam of the Manchurian ruling class began to entail a wider use of knot buttons.
The knot button is widely used in traditional garments of China. They are usually made of cords woven from cotton. While certain intricate patterns and designs would require the use of metal wires. Knot buttons come in a dazzling array of varieties, ranging from plain and simple straight knots to elaborate flowery knots.
Recent years have witnessed a flourishing of knot buttons in contemporary clothing. Knot buttons of various shapes and sizes are being used on different types of garments. Among the most popular designs are butterflies, rosebuds, and diagonal cross-weaving, conveying the spirit and temperament of different eras.
Among all knot buttons, the tried and true hand-made ones are the best liked and admired. They represent the creativity and inspiration of culture, and are high appreciated for the distinctive aesthetics.
