Week One: Easing You Guys into the World of Metro - Cufflinks

My tolerance for jewelry on men is veeerrrryyy low. The general rule of thumb that applies when it comes to the sterner sex and jewelry definitely is: "Less is best" (if not "none at all!") Do keep, however, the wedding band (which stays put 24/7 under all circumstances and conditions, life-threatening or otherwise, a bad case of digital edema included). By all means wear a smart and classic watch, but please lose the heavy chrome (gasp!) chain and hologram pendant!

Nevertheless, one need not develop a complex and become a deranged killer and run amok from a constant surpression of strong and deep-set desires for baubles and the need for artistic self-expression. There are certain legitimate and tasteful ways for the gentleman to wear a little bling - one of them being in the form of cuff-links in more formal contexts, of course. They can complement or even complete a formal/semi-formal outfit. They come in an infinite array of designs, colors & material. Some are mass-produced and die-cast out of both semi-precious and precious metals (oooohhh platinum! ) or other materials like good 'ol plastic, others are individually designed and hand-made, fashioned as well out of metal or non-metals like PETA-friendly faux-ivory, wood, fabric (e.g. silk knots), bone, etc. Then there are even those encrusted or set with carat-sized precious gems - again, this list is not even remotely exhaustive! Now given this variety, self-denial would be a gross sin!

Here's a random (mini) sampling of some of Kumar's cuff-links, artfully (lol) strewn across our newly Windexed dining table...





You may click on my amateur pictures to enlarge image. Notice on the first photo, the drooly pudgy toddler thumb and index finger (caught red-handed, forgive the pun!) attempting to pincer grasp away potential choking hazard and permissibly gaudy ("very Versace" according to Kumee!) cuff-link unearthed after hours of scouring through local Village de Valeur. Other note-worthy ones: Investment banker turned London-based Armenian jewelry designer Robert Tateossian's number - would you believe that these are actually working, albeit mini, pinball maze games? Seriously, who needs game apps on their IPhone??? Perfect for the domestic/international jetsetter in desperate need of a mindless diversion during those long and boring layovers and flights. Intricate Tateossian "tourbillon" links, and the ultimate splurge: Classic Burberry's in the original tartan...enough said!