In the 1200s it became fashionable to use ribbons rather than buttons to fasten clothes. Wearing buttons rather than ribbons became a sign of low rank.

False

Buttons were known in India and China, but came much later to Europe. They were a great hit, as they allowed clothes to be more figure-hugging than the previous method of using ribbons or laces called ‘points’. Decorative buttons were used widely after that, even if they had no practical use. This is still seen today on the cuffs of men’s suits.