cuff link | ˈkəf liŋ(k)
noun
An ornamental jewelry piece which contains two, often decorated, pieces of precious or semi-precious metal connected by a bar which passes through a buttonhole
Cuff links originated in the 17th century and were worn by aristocrats. The 19th century saw a growth in popularity as cuff links became sturdier and worn by the middle class. Generally speaking, the term cuffl ink is a piece of jewelry that is used to fasten the cuffs of a dress shirt. Although, cuff links are historically associated with semi formal evening wear, such as a tuxedo ensemble, they may also fill wide-range of wardrobe roles. As long as the wearer chooses a long-sleeved shirt (with the required holes in the cuff), they may utilize the cufflinks into any ensemble. Furthermore, cuff links may be manufactured from a wide variety of materials, including leather, metal, stone, glass, or perhaps a combination of these. Additionally, cuff links are required when wearing a shirt that offers French cuffs, meaning, a shirt cuff which is folded back before fastening.
