Cufflinks forever remain one of the classiest accessories for men. Once associated with the tuxedo ensemble and black tie events, cufflinks have now become a sophisticated and understated way to spruce up any shirt and let your personality shine through.
In this guide, we explore the art of wearing cufflinks, from understanding the occasions that call for them to discovering how they can add the finishing touch to your outfit. Whether dressing for a formal event, a business meeting or a more relaxed occasion, you’ll learn how to incorporate cufflinks with confidence and flair.
Why wear cufflinks?
Perhaps the most obvious reason to wear cufflinks is to hold the cuffs together on your shirt! This is what cufflinks were made for, after all, with early tailors using decorative buttons and chainlinks to fasten shirtsleeves. This later evolved into the highly polished, often gem-encrusted cufflinks that became popular in France in the late 1700s. For a deeper dive into their evolution and heritage, read our article on the history of cufflinks.
How to wear cufflinks
When it comes to wearing cufflinks, begin with a shirt tailored for French or double cuffs, the only canvas designed to showcase these small works of art. Fold the cuff neatly so that the holes align perfectly, forming a clean frame. Slide the cufflink through the aligned openings, ensuring the decorative face is presented outward.
Depending on the mechanism, secure it with a gentle twist or click, allowing the piece to remain steadfast throughout the day. The cuff should embrace the wrist comfortably, neither constricting nor loose.
When wearing a jacket, allow the cuff to extend slightly beyond the sleeve, revealing just enough to catch the eye and hint at the meticulous care you bring to your attire. Wearing cufflinks in this way means that they cease to be mere fasteners and become a subtle signature of poise.
When is it appropriate to wear cufflinks?
You can write your own rules on when to wear cufflinks, but if you’re looking to spruce up an outfit, a lovely pair of cufflinks can make all the difference. Transform an outfit from cool and casual to office worthy in the time it takes to clip your cufflinks into place. Handy for taking part in dress down Friday whilst still maintaining your professional image.
While cufflinks are rooted in black-tie tradition, they can add the finishing touch to a wide range of outfits. In the office, a classic, understated pair conveys confidence and attention to detail. Wearing cufflinks to an important business meeting can also show that, well, you mean business. A pair of classic diamond cufflinks nestled at the wrist can show a potential investor that you pay attention to the finer details, knowing how they contribute towards the bigger picture. Maybe you have a pair of lucky cufflinks that have helped you win contracts and ace interviews? Try wearing them next time you have a big meeting planned to encourage good fortune.
Cufflinks also make a wonderful accessory for a big event. When attending a formal occasion such as a wedding, graduation or christening, let your accessories help you make the most of it. By wearing gold cufflinks to a wedding you are guaranteed to remember it each time you wear them again.
A carefully chosen pair of cufflinks let you move smoothly from work to special occasions, adding a subtle touch of style and refinement.
Make a statement with your cufflinks
Cufflinks can also be used to make a statement. If you’re a bit of an eccentric at heart let people know by flashing a pair of skull cufflinks.
If you have a hobby or an interest that you are particularly passionate about you can share it with a carefully selected pair of cufflinks. Whether it’s fishing, surfing, boxing or baking, your cufflinks can speak volumes about your personality and provide the perfect talking point at a meeting or event.
A pair of custom made cufflinks can also commemorate a fantastic trip or memorable moment. Maybe you’ve just passed a huge birthday milestone or perhaps you’ve just returned from a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that you want to be reminded of when sitting at your desk on a dull afternoon? Choose our personalised cufflinks that can be engraved with a message to remember those moments forever.
Choosing the right material
Cufflinks come in a variety of materials, each offering a different look and feel. Traditional metals like sterling silver and gold convey formality, while enamel or gemstone cufflinks can add subtle colour and interest for special occasions.
Caring for your cufflinks is important: silver can be polished gently, and plated surfaces should be kept dry. The materials you choose should complement your outfit while reflecting attention to detail and quality craftsmanship.
Coordinating cufflinks with your outfit
Cufflinks aren’t just functional; they complete your look. Match your cufflinks to other metals in your outfit, such as your watch, tie bar, belt buckle or rings, to create a polished, coordinated appearance. Accessories like pocket squares, lapel pins or bracelets can complement cufflinks without overpowering your outfit.
Consider size and proportion. Smaller, simpler cufflinks work well for everyday office wear, while larger or more decorative pieces suit evening events or special occasions. Thoughtful use of colour, texture or design can add personality but keep the overall look balanced. Well-chosen cufflinks tie your outfit together.
