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| Courtesy Ernest Jones.co.uk |
The earliest version of the modern shirt appeared as early as the 16th century, its ruffled wrist band finished with small openings on either side were held together by cuff strings. Although Cuff strings remained popular until well into the 19th century it was under the reign of Louis XIV (Louis the 14th) that that shirt sleeves started to be fastened with boutons de manchette, or "sleeve buttons," typically identical pairs of coloured glass buttons joined together by a short, linked chain.
By 1715, simple, paste-glass buttons had given way to pairs of two, decoratively painted or jewelled studs, typically diamonds, connected by ornate gold links. Hence was born the cuff "link", whether simple glass buttons or gilded and bejewelled studs. Cuff links are designed only for use with shirts which have buttonholes on both sides but no buttons. These may be either single or double-length "French" cuffs, and may be worn either "kissing," with the ends pinched together, or "barrel-style," with one end overlapping the other. At this time it was mostly French Nobility who partook in the wearing of cuff links due to them being made with many semi precious metals and stones. Towards the beginning of the 1800's more of the middle classes and tradesmen began to adopt the wearing of cufflinks and they were here to stay.
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| Courtesy Ernest Jones.co.uk |
Cuff link designs vary widely. The simplest design consists of a short post or chain connecting two disc-shaped parts. The part positioned on the most visible side is usually larger; a variety of designs can connect the smaller piece: It may be small enough to fit through the button hole like a button would; it may be separated and attached from the other side; or it may have a portion that swivels on the central post, aligning with the post while the link is threaded through the button-hole and swivelling into a position at right angles to the post when worn.
The visible part of a cuff link is often monogrammed or decorated in some way ie a family crest. There are numerous styles including novelty, traditional and humorous cuff links. Cuff links were used largely during the 20th century as a gifting accessory by large companies and also as a form of advertising (and you thought product placement was a new thing, lol)
A cuff link is another way which men and women are able to add personal touches to their work shirts. Depending on shape, colour and design they can also be used as a conversation starter. (with Christmas coming keep an eye out for the novelty cuff links which will be making an appearance, lol) Buttons are great, they are useful and serve us well. However a well starched shirt with a cuff link, brings an air of sophistication to your entire look.
"Fashion fades, but style remains eternal." - Yves Saint Laurent
Research credits - The chap, The history of cufflinks.
