A button front fifties dress is practical in a way that fifties styling sometimes is not. You can leave it unbuttoned over a slip dress or tank for layering. You can belt it for definition. You can wear it as is. The button detail also adds visual interest to the front bodice and makes the dress feel less costume-y and more like an actual garment you chose to wear. Cotton or linen blend fabrics work well with buttons. These usually have a gathered or A-line skirt to balance the structured bodice. Solid colors work best here because the buttons are already providing visual interest. This is the fifties dress that feels wearable for actual life rather than just special occasions.