Cufflinks

Cufflinks

First appearing in the 1600s, cufflinks were not a part of regular attire till the late 1800s. Generally, they are considered as part of a more formal getup. Cufflinks are designed to keep cuffs closed, a similar purpose to buttons but with a lot more panache. These are used with shirts that have French Cuffs.

Cufflinks can be made from metals, leather, cloth, glass, stone or precious metals. It is not uncommon to find iterations that have a mix of the aforementioned materials. There are variations of how they function, with some that have a chain linking the 2 parts or a small bent bar. Other versions have a small bar that is hinged and once it is folded the cufflink is secure.

The visible side or the side on the outside of the cuff is the more decorated one. With different designs inlaid or any number of three-dimensional shapes such as skulls, arrows and dice are possible. This large variation allows for much customisation of one's style.

Most famous design brands such as Cartier, Armani, cK and Hermes, all make cufflinks. Just as the producers of cufflinks vary so do the prices. Cufflinks are available at very nominal prices all the way to exorbitant prices. Which cufflinks one chooses is a matter of their style choice and, of course, their budget.