Off the Cuff

For the past three centuries, cufflinks have been a gentleman’s ultimate embellishment for business and formal wear. Before cufflinks, men tightened their shirt cuffs and collars with ribbons. Cufflinks are presumed to have premiered during the reign of Louis XIV (1638– 1715) as boutons de manchette, or "sleeve buttons”. These ‘buttons’ were typically comprised of an identical pair of flat, circular colored glass joined together by a short, delicate chain. As the trend caught on, jewelers across Europe, particularly in England, began turning out cufflinks in precious metals with etched or stamped designs encrusted with diamonds and precious gems. Royalty would commemorate weddings and other milestone occasions with them, making donning cufflinks the mark of a true aristocrat.

Today, cufflinks are considered an essential part of the wardrobe of any well-dressed gentleman. Motifs and materials vary widely, ensuring that no matter your style or price point, any outfit can be personalized. The gold, ruby and enamel David Webb cufflinks pictured here make a particularly elegant statement. The figural zebra form and vibrant contrasting color combination define this exquisite pair as classic 1960’s Webb. What gives this pair their added flair is that their design wraps around the cuff rather than just appearing on either side. Print this post