Figure 1.--Several companies still make button-on shorts, but mostly in pre-school sizes. This blouse and shorts set was made in sizes 1/2 through 6 years by Ginger Snaps Designs.

Button-on shorts are generally associated with 1920s-40s play suits. By the 1950s they were much less common for school age boys, but continued to be worn by younger boys. The button-on suit, however, has never completely disappeared from the younger boys' wardrobe. The nature of the style has changed. It has become a less common play style. Button-on shorts, however, are now worn as a younger boy's dress suit for formal occasions--now more commonly with saddle shoes rather than sandals.

Modern Style

Button-on shorts are generally associated with 1920s-40s play suits. The button-on suit, however, has never completely disappeared from the younger boys' wardrobe. The nature of the style has changed, however, is is now worn as a younger boy's dress suit for formal occasdions--often with saddle shoes.

Discussion

Sewing and clothing fora provide insights as to the button on shorts cuurently being worn.

Boy's Button on Suit

I am looking for a pattern for a boys button on suit (shirt that buttons to shorts). I have seen several patterns on the internet (Chery Williams, Ginger Snaps, etc) Could I have some opinions on what you consider to be the easiest to follow directions and make? Jill Posted 06/30/2000

I have sewn quite a few David's over the years. It's a Children's Corner pattern. I don't remember ever having any problems with the instructions. I think they're pretty good. I also LOVE Wright by CC. It's similar to David but with bubble pants, probably better suited for a younger child. Christine Posted 06/30/2000

I use Ginger Snaps mainly because all the sizes are in one pattern. I have seven children so we hit all the sizes. This pattern is sewn with two seams so that one can be let out as the child grows,that's a big plus I had one child wearing the same suit from age 2 to 5 by lowering the buttons & letting the seam out. Hope this helps! Christy Posted 07/01/2000

I HAVE ALSO USED THE CHILDRENS CORNER PATTERNS AND LOVE WRIGHT FOR SMALLER CHILDREN. IT IS BASICALLY A BUTTON ON BUBBLE. BUT FOR A BUTTON ON SUIT PATTERN I WOULD SUGGEST CHERRY WILLIAMS BECAUSE OF THE VERSITILITY. YOU CAN USE IT FOR A BOYS WHOLE LIFE AND EVERY OCCASION., THERE ARE NOT ONLY SHORTS, BUT KNICKERS, PANTS, LONG AND SHORT SLEEVES FOR THE SHIRT AND DIFFERENT COLLARS . I HAVE NEVER SEEN A PATTERN FOR BOYS WITH MORE CHOICES AND I HAVE ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT THEIR INSTRUCTIONS WERE VERY CLEAR AND EASY TO HANDLE AT THE SEWING TABLE BECAUSE THEY ARE IN BOOK FORM, NOT THE HUGE OPENUP PAGE FORM.. I HAVE 4 SONS AND THIS IS A PATTERN THAT I WOULD DEFFINATLY SUGGEST TO YOU... Mary Posted 07/09/00

Created: October 6, 2000
Last updated: February 22, 2002