Cufflinks and Their Comeback: The History and Styling of This Menswear Staple
Remember when men’s fashion was all about that one statement piece that secretly screamed ‘I know what I’m doing’? Well, cufflinks are back with a vengeance, and they’re not just for your grandpa’s tuxedo anymore. These tiny pieces of artistry have broken free from the confines of black-tie events and are now shaking up everything from boardrooms to casual brunches. At Robinson’s Jewelers, we’ve noticed a curious trend: women are increasingly buying cufflinks not just for their partners but as personal power accessories. Yes, you heard that right—cufflinks are going unisex, and they’re bringing centuries of history along for the ride. So, whether you’re a cufflink connoisseur or someone who just discovered they aren’t fancy buttons, let’s dive into the fascinating world of these miniature marvels.
The resurgence of cufflinks isn’t just a random blip on the fashion radar. It’s part of a larger return to sharp tailoring and luxe details that make outfits pop. From their origins in the 1600s as a status symbol for nobility to their modern-day comeback, cufflinks have always been more than just functional items—they’re wearable art. And with brands like Cartier and Oscar Heyman creating stunning designs, it’s no wonder they’re flying off our shelves. But before we get into how to style them, let’s take a quick trip back in time to see how cufflinks evolved from simple fasteners to must-have accessories.
A Royal Beginning: The History of Cufflinks
Cufflinks first appeared in the late 17th century during the reign of King Louis XIV of France. Before that, shirt cuffs were tied together with string, ribbon, or leather cords—hardly the epitome of elegance. The earliest cufflinks, known as ‘bouton de manchettes’ (sleeve buttons), consisted of two buttons connected by a chain. These were adorned with precious metals and gemstones, making them accessible only to the elite. King Charles II of England, a known fashionista of his time, adored cufflinks and helped popularize them among the upper crust. They became symbols of wealth and status, often gifted to commemorate special occasions or milestones.
The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century was a game-changer for cufflinks. Mass production techniques made them more affordable, and suddenly, the middle class could enjoy a touch of aristocracy. Shirts with highly starched cuffs became the norm, and buttons just wouldn’t cut it—cufflinks were necessary to hold those stiff cuffs together. Victorian men embraced them, and by the early 1900s, cufflinks had reached peak popularity. They even had a hint of intrigue: some designs featured secret compartments to hide photos of lovers! Talk about vintage romance.
However, the mid-20th century saw a decline in cufflink usage. The rise of casual fashion and buttoned cuffs on shirts made them seem unnecessary. But like all good things, cufflinks made a comeback. The 1980s brought a revival of traditional menswear, and today, they’re more popular than ever. From lab-grown diamond accents to whimsical designs, cufflinks are now a versatile accessory for anyone looking to add a dash of personality to their outfit.
How to Wear Cufflinks Without Looking Like You Tried Too Hard
First things first: cufflinks require a specific type of shirt. Look for French cuffs or double cuffs, which have buttonholes on both sides but no buttons. These cuffs are designed to be folded back and secured with cufflinks. If you’re new to the game, attaching them can feel like solving a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. Pro tip: Put them on before your shirt to avoid fumbling awkwardly. And always ensure the design faces outward—this isn’t a humblebrag situation; it’s meant to be seen!
When it comes to styling, match your cufflinks to your outfit’s tone. For formal events like weddings or galas, stick to classic metals like silver or gold. If you’re wearing a navy or black suit, silver cufflinks are a timeless choice. For informal occasions, feel free to play with colors and designs. A blue suit paired with red cufflinks? Yes, please! Contrasting colors can make your accessories stand out subtly when you move your arms.
Don’t forget to coordinate with other accessories. If you’re wearing a rose gold watch, opt for rose gold cufflinks to keep things cohesive. The goal is to create a harmonious look without being too matchy-matchy. And ladies, if you’re rocking a blazer or a tailored shirt, cufflinks can add a unexpected twist to your ensemble. Who says men get to have all the fun?
Choosing the Right Cufflinks for Every Occasion
Cufflinks come in a dizzying array of styles, so how do you choose? Start by considering the event. Formal occasions call for understated elegance—think precious metals or pearl accents. For white-tie events, pearl cufflinks are actually preferred. Informal settings allow for more creativity. Enamel designs, gemstone accents, or even novelty shapes can show off your personality.
Materials matter too. From diamond-encrusted pieces to leather or fabric knots, there’s something for everyone. Silk knot cufflinks, introduced by Paris shirtmaker Charvet in 1904, are a casual and affordable option. They’re often included with French cuff shirts and come in various colors. For a more luxurious feel, explore cufflinks from brands like Bvlgari or Van Cleef & Arpels, which offer exquisite craftsmanship and timeless designs.
Size is another factor. Standard cufflinks are around 16mm in diameter, which fits most shirt cuffs. Larger cufflinks (19mm) are better for thicker cuffs. And if you’re buying cufflinks as a gift, consider personalized options like initial engraving—it adds a heartfelt touch that says, “I paid attention.”
Why Cufflinks Are Making a Comeback (And Why You Should Care)
In an era where sweatpants became work attire, you might wonder why cufflinks are relevant. The answer is simple: people are craving individuality and elegance again. Cufflinks offer a way to express personal style without saying a word. They’re one of the few accessories that can elevate an outfit from ‘meh’ to ‘magnificent’ in seconds.
Social media and pop culture have played a role too. James Bond (Daniel Craig in Skyfall) wore them with effortless cool, and influencers are now pairing cufflinks with everything from suits to denim jackets. Plus, the rise of gender-fluid fashion means cufflinks aren’t just for men anymore. Women are incorporating them into their wardrobes as bold statements, proving that good style knows no boundaries.
At Robinson’s Jewelers, we’ve seen a 30% increase in cufflink sales over the past year. Whether it’s for a wedding, a graduation gift, or just because, cufflinks are having a moment. And with brands like Charles Krypell and Roberto Coin offering stunning designs, there’s never been a better time to invest in a pair (or three).
Final Thoughts: Embrace the Cufflink Renaissance
Cufflinks are more than just functional items; they’re a nod to history, a dash of personality, and a testament to timeless style. Whether you’re dressing for a black-tie event or jazzing up a casual outfit, there’s a pair of cufflinks waiting to tell your story. So, next time you’re browsing our jewelry collection, don’t overlook these small but mighty accessories. They might just be the missing piece in your style puzzle.
Ready to find your perfect pair? Explore our curated selection of cufflinks and discover how a little detail can make a big impact. And remember, at Robinson’s Jewelers, we’re here to help you shine—one cufflink at a time.