A Brief History of Cufflinks

Cufflinks started out as functional items and evolved into stylish fashion statements, cufflinks have a fascinating story to tell.

I did some research on cufflinks as I make solid sterling silver and solid gold cufflinks by hand and this is what I found.......

The Early Years: Functional Accessories

Cufflinks have been around for centuries, although they were quite different from the ones we know today. In the early 17th century, men's shirts were typically fastened with ribbons or strings. As shirt cuffs became more refined, buttons emerged as a popular way to fasten them. However, these early buttons were often impractical and easily lost.

It wasn't until the late 17th century that cufflinks as we know them began to appear. Initially, they were simple, functional pieces designed to hold together the cuffs of a shirt. These early cufflinks were usually made of metal and had a chain or bar connecting the two ends.

The Rise of Fashion

As the 19th century progressed, cufflinks became more ornate and decorative. They were often embellished with precious stones or intricate designs, reflecting the wearer's wealth and status. During this time, cufflinks also became an important fashion accessory, with different styles and materials coming into vogue.

One of the most significant developments in cufflink design came with the invention of the swivel bar in the mid-19th century. This innovation made cufflinks easier to put on and take off, further increasing their popularity.

The Golden Age of Cufflinks

The early 20th century saw the golden age of cufflinks, with a wide variety of styles and designs available to suit every taste. From Art Deco-inspired geometric patterns to whimsical motifs like animals and flowers, there was a cufflink for every occasion.

During this time, cufflinks also became associated with formalwear, particularly with tuxedos and evening dress. Many men began to collect cufflinks as a way to express their personal style and add a touch of elegance to their outfits.

Cufflinks Today

While cufflinks are no longer a necessity in men's fashion, they remain a popular accessory for those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their look. Modern cufflinks come in a wide variety of styles, materials, and designs, ranging from classic and understated to bold and contemporary.

Whether you prefer a traditional pair of gold or silver cufflinks or something more avant-garde, there's no denying the enduring appeal of these small but stylish accessories. From their humble beginnings as simple fasteners to their current status as must-have fashion accessories, cufflinks have certainly come a long way.

Handmade cufflinks

As I make all of my cufflinks by hand no two of my cufflinks in a pair are exactly the same and this really showcases their handmade charm. I can make cufflinks to any design and add numbers and letter to add a unique personal element. If you have an idea for a pair of cufflinks for an event or gift then email me: sian@sianelizabethhughes.co.uk