A button hook is a tool used to assist with closing the buttons on shoes, gloves, and other clothing. It consists of a hook fixed to a handle, which can vary in length, and can be very decorative or plain and simple. These handles were made from various materials – silver, wood, horn, and mother of pearl are the most common.

 

Button hooks have been in use since at least the 18th century, or earlier, increasing in popularity during the Victorian era. They remained in common general use until after the First World War, by both men and women. 

 

However, They can still be purchased to assist the elderly or disabled with day to day dressing.

 

Ladies had these items as part of a dresser set, in their dressing rooms, or on a chatelaine belt hook.  A chatelaine belt hook was a clasp attached to the waist band of ladies’ clothing. It had various chains hanging from it to hold everyday items that the ladies would use during the day, for example. scissors, watches, keys etc. 

 

Ladies used this tool to button up their gloves, shoes, bodices and dresses, while men used them to button up their spats (gaiters) and cuffs on shirts.

 

To use the hooks you would insert the button hook through the button hole, catch hold of the button with the hook and pull it through, disconnect the button from the hook. Very easy to use.