The fly is the front opening at the top of jeans where you’ll find either buttons or a zipper. On jeans, the top button is also uncovered.

The term was originally used in England to refer to the flap on a tent (which flaps or flies when the wind blows if not tied down). In the 19th century, it became sort of a generic term for cloth flap, and then became associated with clothing. Fly refers to an extra covering over an entrance.

Opening the back or front of a dress is often the most functional way to create ease of entry, and if the zipper is not part of the design, it is most discreet in the back. Many garments do feature side zippers when practical. They are usually invisable zippers so that they don’t add bulk to the garment.

Buttons are not exactly the easiest to work with but they do offer amazing aesthetic value. This is seen especially when they are used on high waist jeans. It is a great way to make a fashion statement with a subtle detail. Button flies are also less likely to come undone if the fastening is done properly.

I like them … ever since I discovered 501’s way back when. Because button fly jeans, IMHO, tend to be a bit more comfortable than jeans with a zipper. Button fly jeans have a little more give and flexibility in the crotch due to …the buttons.

Why the Button Fly? They are quicker: They take less than a second to use, compared to five or more fumbling seconds with the button fly. They are less visible: One simple flap easily covers the zipper, as opposed to a second flap that bulks up the fly area and can be seen from the right side.

10 Must-Have Wardrobe Items for Women at 50+

• Dark denim, mid-rise, boot-cut jeans.
• Dark denim, mid-rise, straight-leg jeans.
• White jeans (boot-cut or straight-leg)
• Great-fitting pants.
• Black fitted jacket.
• Black pencil skirt.
• Cardigans.
• Tank tops.