A brief history of cufflinks for dapper gents

According to the International Cufflink Association decorative cuff fastenings have been around since the time of King Tut with hieroglyphs depicting chain and stud type fastenings on the cuffs of well-dressed ancient Egyptians. Cuff links were introduced in Europe in the 17^th century when slits were first cut into sleeves but the term cufflinks did not appear in writing until 1788.

Cufflinks as we know them were made popular by regency dandy, Beau Brummell who insisted that they were the only piece of jewellery a gentleman needed. The fashion soon spread throughout society along with the shirt and tie. The cufflink used to be a necessity but in the 1930s sewn on buttons became the fastener of choice.

Modern dressing could have meant the end of the cufflink but there are so few opportunities for masculine adornment that the cufflink has survived. No longer a necessity, they are now treasured items able to inject wit and style into any gentleman’s outfit.

There is a cufflink for everyone and every budget. The wearer can hint at interests and passions with novelty cufflinks or demonstrate style and discrimination with their choice of quality cufflinks made from precious metals and jewels.

For wit, we recommend Tatty Devine’s Swallow Tatoo Cufflinks which reveal your inner biker, even when you are dressed in a suit and tie.

Simon Carter’s stylish Silver Knot Cufflinks,  hark back to the silk know fastenings of 19^th century France 

and for high fashion you need look no further than Paul Smith’s Ministripe design from his Autumn and Winter 2013 collection.

For more cufflink inspiration along with a selection of accessories for dapper gents, have a look at our Pinterest board.