Fantastic set of 12 original Mid-Century Modern buttons. These 32mm buttons feature genuine Mother of Pearl discs encased or backed with clear resin/plastic, giving them a sleek, clean profile characteristic of 1950s and 1960s fashion.
- Material: Genuine iridescent Mother of Pearl (MOP) with a clear plastic/Lucite finish.
- Shank: Clear plastic loop shanks, which allow the button to "float" on the fabric without a visible metal attachment.
- Visuals: The MOP has a beautiful, wavy natural texture with a high-gloss finish, reflecting strong pink and green iridescence.
- Presentation: Still sewn onto the original foil-lined merchant card.
In the 1950s and 60s, button manufacturers moved away from solid shell construction to "composite" styles. By combining natural shell with modern plastics like Lucite, they could create larger, more durable "statement" buttons that were lighter in weight—perfect for the structured wool coats and "swing" jackets popular during the era.
The clear plastic shank was a specific innovation of this period, designed to be invisible when sewn, ensuring the focus remained entirely on the shimmering shell.
Condition
- Buttons: Excellent vintage condition. The clear plastic is bright, and the shanks are all intact and secure. The MOP inserts are vibrant and well-preserved.
- Card: The original display card shows some vintage wear and toning, but remains a great piece of social history, with the original hand-sewing still holding the buttons in place.
Specifications
- Era: 1950s–1960s (Mid-Century)
- Shank Type: Clear Plastic / Lucite Loop