Tuesday, September 1, 2009

What Are Cufflinks?


By Graham Horsefall


A cufflink or "cuff link" is a decorative fastener implemented to ensure the sleeve cuff on a shirt, blouse or dress fastens. The cufflink actually dates back to the early 17th century and was created as an alternative to using the familiar button. Over the years the cufflink has been developed in many unique and stylish designs and has been regarded as a fashionable item of décor worn for special occasions. Although the designs and styles are ever increasing the basic cylindrical post with a personalized or decorative end still remains today. The visible end that appears on the cuff has always been the decorative feature often used for engraving or adding a personal touch alongside the creative designs.


The cufflink today comes in many stunning and unique designs ranging from novelty and comical designs to the jewellery based cufflinks created from such materials as gold and silver.


Who Wears Cufflinks?


Throughout the early years of the cufflink the gentleman was traditionally the person to adorn a cufflink. The cufflink was part of a formal wear created to impress other fellow gentlemen and ladies. It was not only a mark of fashion but one of wealth and status. Today the cufflink is not only worn by the gentleman it is also a part of the woman's attire. As the fashion trends constantly change the demands for the cufflink have risen making them widely available in designs created for both male and female attires. Originally the cufflink was adorned to show off status and then grew to be an item worn at weddings and other formal occasions. However in today's society the cufflink is widely accepted as a fashion item that can be worn amongst casual wear.


How to Wear Cufflinks


Although the cufflink comes in many diverse styles and designs it cannot be worn with just any outfit. The cufflink can only be worn with certain shirts and blouses that come with specially created holes without the button. Unfortunately the standard shirt or blouses that feature a button will not be able to accommodate the cufflink. The clothes created specifically for the cufflink come without any buttons on and have designated holes instead.


The Prefect Gift


Cufflinks come in some of the most creative designs available. Designs can include sporting designs, favourite football team colours, logo's, cars, planes, emblems or can be engraved and personalized. Due to the fact that they can be personalized they have become the ideal gift for a partner, loved one or just a friend. They are perfect as corporate gifts, wedding gifts or for a birthday or special occasion the list is endless.


Written by Graham Horsefall on behalf of Cufflinkman leading suppliers in novelty and designer cufflinks


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