The cummerbund – overlooked and underappreciated

The skinny jeans of their day, cummerbunds – derived from the Persian term for the waist, kamar, and entering the English language in 1616 – became enormously popular in England in the late 19th century, when party goers would even disrobe from their waistcoats in order to show off their red or maroon (as was the style) fabric belts. Before this, however, the cummerbund was a strictly military attire, worn by British troops in the Indian subcontinent – and before this, was used widely in Afghanistan by tribal warriors.

Now, it seems that the cummerbund has (as most things need to do to gain entry to the world of fashion) managed to throw off the shackles of its oppressive utility (that of an ornate trouser keeper-upper and occasional sword holder (if Laurence of Arabia holds any historical truth)) and is used exclusively for aesthetic purposes, gracefully filling that occasionally bulging mound that separates chest from hip, shirt from trouser, like the Alps do France and Switzerland.

For an item of clothing with such a rich and interesting history, it seems surprising then that well-made cummerbunds is such a difficult task. While it can be said that the cummerbund is exactly your ‘everyday’ attire, it’s certainly a fashionable item that’s enjoyed a steady level of popularity since it first made the headlines in the fashion columns of the 1890s, and you’d expect to see them lining the clothes aisles in greater frequency.

Quality-made cummerbunds

But there are some companies out there committed to keeping the spirit of the cummerbund alive and well – it just takes a steely determination to find them.

Specialising in high-quality corporate and promotional cummerbunds, The Winsor Tie Company keep the cummerbund flame burning bright. Made from either woven or printed polyester, their cummerbunds are made to a custom designs with a high yarn count. With an extensive design library for helpful cloth pattern ideas, be creative, be inventive – The Winsor Tie Company will set you apart from the crowd.

Find out more about the full range of cummerbunds from The Winsor Tie Company and visit them online today.

Cummerbund from thewinsortiecompany.co.uk. For all of your bespoke neckwear requirements at unbeatable prices and quality, why not check out our range of Club Ties.