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A moment in Paris after the war

These buttons come from a fit and flare dress dating to 1957, a time when Paris was firmly reclaiming its glamour after the austerity of the war years. Fashion houses responded to this renewed optimism by adding sparkle wherever they could, crystals stitched into garments that caught the light and announced a return to celebration, femininity and confidence.

I can’t help but imagine the woman who wore this dress. Perhaps an evening engagement, a dinner in the city, a theatre visit or a long awaited celebration where dressing beautifully felt like an act of joy rather than excess. These were the kinds of dresses designed to move, to shimmer softly under low lights, and to be noticed without shouting.

Texture, sparkle and quiet drama

The buttons themselves are wonderfully tactile, highly textured with a three dimensional crystal logo that rises proudly from the surface. The photographs honestly don’t do these crystals justice. In real life, they catch and reflect light constantly, meaning these earrings are almost guaranteed to be admired every time you wear them.

Because of the undulating surface of the original buttons, I chose to hammer the bezel edge rather than force a perfectly smooth finish. It simply wasn’t practical to fight against the character of the button, and instead the hammered bezel mirrors its texture beautifully. It feels considered, intentional and true to the original design.

A golden finishing touch

These earrings are crafted in solid sterling silver and finished with a thick, rich layer of 24ct yellow gold vermeil. For buttons of this era and elegance, nothing else felt quite right. The warmth of the gold enhances the sparkle of the crystals and gives the piece the sense of luxury it deserves.

Each button is suspended from a small gold vermeil hoop, a detail that adds just the right amount of drama and movement without overpowering the design. As you walk, they catch the light and shift gently, echoing the glamour of the dress they once adorned.

Summary

Button Origin: Chanel Fit and flare dress, Paris, 1957
Materials: Chanel vintage crystal button set in solid Sterling Silver with thick 24ct yellow gold vermeil plating
Available Colours: Gold
Handcrafted in: The French Alps, Porsha Bella Atelier

Your jewellery journey begins with a piece of Porsha Bella wearable history.

What is 24ct Yellow Gold Vermeil?
Gold vermeil is a layer of real gold over solid sterling silver. To be called vermeil, the gold must be at least 10ct and plated at a certain thickness. At Porsha Bella Jewellery, I use 24ct yellow gold, the purest, richest toned gold, for a luxurious finish that’s both elegant and enduring.

Caring for Your Gold Vermeil Jewellery

Gold vermeil is a thick layer of 24ct gold over sterling silver.   Luxurious, but delicate. To keep it looking beautiful:

• Avoid water, sweat, perfumes, and lotions.

• Remove before showering, swimming, or exercising.

• Gently wipe with a soft, dry cloth,  no harsh cleaners.

• Store pieces separately in a dry, cool place.

Over time, gentle fading is natural. It adds character, but re-plating is always an option if you’d like a refresh.

Now for the legal stuff:-

Please note, all buttons used in my creations are antique, vintage, or second hand, and will naturally show signs of their previous lives.  Such as gentle surface marks, tiny dents, enamel wear, or soft tarnishing.
Each button is carefully tested and securely set, but as these treasures can be well over a century old, they remain delicate and should be treated with the same care as any fine antique.

While the jewellery itself is professionally handcrafted from solid precious metals using traditional goldsmith techniques, designed to last a lifetime, the historic buttons, pearls, and crystals within these designs are inherently more fragile. Their age and patina are what make them so special.
To preserve your piece, please avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, perfume, or impact. Treat it gently, and it will bring you many years of beauty and admiration.

As each piece is entirely handmade and one of a kind, I’m unable to offer refunds, exchanges, or replacements for changes of mind, or for age related wear such as button cracking, crystal or pearl loss, or plating lift that may occur over time.

If you ever have concerns about caring for your jewellery, please don’t hesitate to contact me for personalised advice.

Designer buttons have no affiliation with the original fashion houses. I take great care to ensure all branded buttons are genuine and sourced from reputable second hand suppliers & fashion historians.  Porsha Bella designer button jewellery is not sold on behalf of, or in connection with, any brand.

Your purchases are shipped via La Poste France using international tracking.
Please note, shipments are not insured against loss or damage unless requested. By completing your purchase, you agree to uninsurable shipping.
If you would prefer insured shipping, please contact me before checkout for a personalised quote.