The small loop on the back of your button-down shirt, often called a “locker loop” or “backstay loop,” has a rich history dating back to the early 20th century. Originally found on the uniforms of U.S. Navy sailors, the loop was a practical feature that allowed sailors to hang their shirts on hooks, keeping them wrinkle-free in the cramped quarters of a ship.

Over time, this functional design made its way into Ivy League fashion, becoming a stylish statement. Today, while the loop isn’t as necessary for its original purpose, it still offers practical advantages for travelers and adds a distinctive style element to modern button-down shirts. The loop is a small but meaningful reminder of fashion’s evolution from practical solutions to timeless style.