Cufflinks are a timeless accessory that add a touch of class to any outfit. Whether you're wearing a business suit or a tuxedo, cufflinks can convey sophistication, elegance and personality. Wearing them correctly takes some skill and finesse, but with the right knowledge, anyone can master this classic style. Here we take a look at how to wear cufflinks to achieve a refined look.
What are the Different Types of Cufflinks?
There are a few different types of cufflinks. The most common type has to be the T-Bar Cufflinks, also known as Bullet Back Cufflinks, which feature a small cylinder that flips to secure the link. They get their name from the rotating piece of metal, which is shaped like a T, or a small bullet, at the back. This rotates 90 degrees, meaning that it can slide easily through the cuffs.
You may also have heard of the Whale Back Cufflinks which are similar to the T-Bars. The difference is, they have a solid piece that flips flat against the cuff. Another type of cufflink is the Stud or the Button which are much more compact, simple and often used for formal events.
One of the fanciest evolutions of the cufflink has to be the Chain Link Cufflinks, which are a great decorative accessory. Featuring two ends, these cufflinks, as suggested by the name, are connected by a chain and add an extra eye-catching element to an outfit. You may have also seen the Ball Return Cufflinks, where a fixed ball is at one end and a decorative face is at the other. Or, the Knotted Cufflinks, which defines itself by being made from silk or fabric and is perfect for a casual or semi-formal attire.
How to Choose the Right Cufflinks
Choosing the right cufflinks comes down to two major decisions – what the occasion is and what you are planning to wear. As well as being practical, cufflinks are meant to compliment your outfit and allow you to add a touch of your personality.
When to Wear Cufflinks
For a formal event, you should opt for a classic or elegant design choice. More often than not, for a more dignified event, you will typically be wearing a black or navy suit. Cufflinks are a great way to add some interest to your attire, but it will also have to match the tone of the event. For a conversation-starting cufflink set, we would recommend our fossil collection. Take our Ammonite Cufflinks for example –- they are interesting in shape, but their neutral colour allows them to be paired with more formal suits. Each pair of beautiful fossil cufflinks is made using a genuine Ammonite from Madagascar, which has been sliced in two, creating matching halves that reveal the inner beauty of the specimen that is around 150 million years old.
For business events, you may select a slightly more relaxed version of a formal suit. Business suits are designed specifically for use in the workplace and therefore, will require different cufflinks. For those gentlemen who tend to wear a suit every day, it can become tedious. So, pairing your work attire with some fun cufflinks can make every outfit more unique and enjoyable.
Adding a touch of personality with playful cufflinks not only breaks the monotony but also showcases your individuality and attention to detail, making every suit a statement of your personal style. If you are looking for some fun cufflinks, we would suggest our Art Deco collection, showcasing so many interesting and colourful patterns. Our Clarice Cliff Cufflinks are one of our customers’ favourites as they are made using shards of a previously damaged, limited edition Wedgwood plate featuring designs by the legendary ceramics artist herself. Each pair of these cufflinks is bursting with Clarice Cliff’s signature artistry and colour.
Matching your Cufflinks to your Outfit
In addition to considering the occasion, you will also want to look at what you plan on wearing to an event or work. Pairing your cufflinks to other elements of your outfit can bring your whole look together. For instance, you will want to choose a shirt colour or pattern that will complement your cufflinks. If you are planning on wearing silver cufflinks, then they would pair extremely well with a white or blue shirt.
How to Wear Cufflinks
Whether you're dressing for a business meeting, a wedding, or a special event, knowing how to properly wear cufflinks can improve your style and make a lasting impression. There are two main ways that people commonly wear their cufflinks: French Cuffs and Convertible Cuffs.
French Cuffs are folded back before securing, whereas the Convertible Cuffs Can be worked with buttons or cufflinks. Both are acceptable ways of wearing cufflinks, however the Convertible Cuffs offer much more versatility. To wear cufflinks, you will need to:
- Prepare the Cuff: Fold back the French cuff or straighten the convertible cuff.
- Align the Holes: Ensure the holes on both sides of the cuff align perfectly.
- Insert the Cufflink: Push the cufflink through the holes.