Cufflinks are a timeless accessory that adds a touch of sophistication and personality to men’s formal attire. While buttons are functional, cufflinks serve as both a fastener and a piece of jewelry, allowing individuals to express their style in a subtle yet impactful way. Whether you are preparing for a wedding, a black-tie event, or a professional meeting, understanding how to select and wear cufflinks is a valuable skill for any wardrobe.
In this guide, we will explore the different types of cufflinks available, how to match them with your clothing, and the proper way to wear them. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of how to use these accessories to elevate your look with confidence and ease.
Understanding the Different Types of Cufflinks
Before you begin shopping for accessories, it is helpful to know the various styles available. Each type of cufflink has a different closing mechanism and aesthetic appeal.
Whale Back Cufflinks
Whale back cufflinks are perhaps the most common type found in stores today. They feature a flat head and a straight post with a “tail” that flips flat to insert through the cuff holes and then flips back to secure the link in place. They are popular because they are very easy to put on without assistance.
Bullet Back Cufflinks
Bullet back cufflinks are very similar to whale backs but feature a small cylinder, or “bullet,” at the end of the post. The cylinder rotates on a frame to lock the cufflink. These are also highly favored for their ease of use and secure fit.
Stud or Button Style
Stud cufflinks do not have moving parts. Instead, they feature a large head and a smaller backing connected by a straight post. To wear them, you tilt the smaller end through the shirt holes. Because they have no hinges, they are often more durable and offer a classic, sleek look.
Chain Link Cufflinks
Chain link cufflinks are the most traditional style. They consist of two decorative faces connected by a short length of fine chain. This style allows for a looser cuff fit and shows the decorative element on both sides of the sleeve, which many enthusiasts prefer for formal occasions.
Choosing the Right Cufflinks for the Occasion
The event you are attending will largely dictate the style of cufflink you should choose. Not every pair is suitable for every environment.
Formal and Black-Tie Events
For highly formal events like galas or black-tie weddings, stick to classic materials. Silver, gold, or onyx are standard choices. Simple, geometric shapes like circles or squares in polished metals provide a clean and elegant finish that complements a tuxedo or a dark suit.
Business and Professional Settings
In a professional environment, your accessories should be noticeable but not distracting. Subtle textures, brushed metals, or simple patterns are ideal. Avoid overly bright colors or novelty shapes in the office, as these can detract from a professional appearance.
Casual and Social Gatherings
Social events allow for more creativity. This is the time to wear novelty cufflinks that reflect your hobbies or interests, such as miniature anchors, vintage coins, or colorful enamel designs. These can serve as great conversation starters at parties or dinners.
How to Match Cufflinks with Your Outfit
Matching your accessories to your clothing ensures a cohesive and polished look. There are a few simple rules to follow when coordinating your cufflinks with your shirt, suit, and other accessories.
Coordinate Your Metals
The most important rule is to match the metal of your cufflinks with other metal elements in your outfit. If you are wearing a silver watch and a silver belt buckle, your cufflinks should also be silver or white gold. If your watch is gold, choose gold-toned cufflinks to maintain a unified appearance.
Consider the Shirt Color
Your shirt provides the backdrop for your cufflinks. For a white shirt, almost any color or metal will work. However, if you are wearing a colored or patterned shirt, try to pick a cufflink color that complements the fabric. For example, blue cufflinks look excellent against a light blue or crisp white shirt, while burgundy or deep red stones pair well with grey suits.
Balance the Patterns
If your shirt has a bold pattern, choose simple, solid-colored cufflinks to avoid visual clutter. Conversely, if your shirt is a solid, neutral color, you can afford to wear more intricate or decorative cufflinks to add visual interest to your sleeves.
How to Put on Cufflinks: A Step-by-Step Guide
Most cufflinks require a shirt with French cuffs (double cuffs), which are extra long and folded back. Some shirts feature convertible cuffs that have both a button and a hole for a cufflink.
- Fold the cuffs: Start by folding the long cuff of your shirt back so that the edges are even.
- Align the holes: Hold the two open edges of the cuff together so that the holes are lined up. The edges should lay flat against each other, away from the wrist.
- Insert the cufflink: Push the back of the cufflink through both sets of holes. The decorative face should be on the outside of the sleeve when your arm is at your side.
- Secure the back: Flip the toggle or secure the backing to ensure the link does not slide out.
Caring for Your Cufflink Collection
Proper care will ensure that your accessories remain in excellent condition for years. Since many cufflinks are made from precious metals or contain delicate stones, they require specific maintenance.
- Storage: Store your cufflinks in a dedicated box with individual compartments. This prevents them from scratching each other and makes it easier to find a matching pair.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe away fingerprints and oils after each use. For silver cufflinks that have tarnished, use a specialized silver polishing cloth.
- Avoid Moisture: Keep your accessories away from water and humidity. Remove them before washing your hands if there is a risk of splashing, and never wear them in the shower.
Conclusion
Cufflinks are a simple yet powerful way to enhance your personal style and bring a sense of completion to your formal wear. By selecting the right type, matching your metals, and choosing designs appropriate for the occasion, you can transform a standard suit into a distinguished ensemble. Remember that the best accessories are those that make you feel confident and comfortable in your appearance. For more tips on mastering formal style and maintaining your wardrobe, explore our other guides on professional attire and accessory care.