Cufflinks are a small accessory that can have a big impact on your overall outfit and style. Whether you’re dressing for a formal event, a business meeting, or simply want to add a touch of sophistication to your outfit, knowing how to properly put on cufflinks is essential. In our guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about cufflinks, step-by-step process of how to wear them, and what mistakes to avoid when styling them.
What Are Cufflinks?
Cufflinks have been a staple of men’s fashion for centuries, first appearing in the early 16th century. Initially, they were simple strings used to tie the cuffs of shirts together, but they soon evolved into more elaborate and decorative fasteners. By the 18th century, cufflinks became a symbol of sophistication and status, often adorned with precious metals and gemstones.
The primary purpose of cufflinks is to fasten the cuffs of a dress shirt, especially those with French or double cuffs that lack buttons. Beyond their functional role, cufflinks are also an excellent way to express personal style and add a unique touch to formal attire.
Preparing to Put on Cufflinks
Before you start putting on your cufflinks, it’s important to ensure you have the right shirt and cufflinks for the occasion. Not every shirt needs cufflinks. This preparation will help you achieve a polished and stylish look.
Choose the Right Shirt
The first step in preparing to wear cufflinks is selecting a shirt with the appropriate cuffs. Cufflinks are typically worn with double or French cuff shirts, which have extended cuffs that are folded back and fastened with cufflinks instead of buttons.
- Double/French cuff shirts: these shirts have longer cuffs that are designed to be folded back, creating a crisp and elegant look. They are typically worn at formal events, such as weddings, black-tie dinners, and important business meetings. Double cuffs are the most common and traditional choice of a shirt for wearing cufflinks
- Convertible cuff shirts: some shirts come with convertible cuffs, which can be worn with either buttons or cufflinks. These versatile shirts are a great option if you want the flexibility to switch between a casual and a formal look
When choosing your shirt, make sure it fits well, it’s not too relaxed or too tight, and complements the rest of your outfit. The cuffs should also be long enough to fold back neatly without being too loose or too tight around your wrists.
Select Your Cufflinks
Choosing the right cufflinks is just as important as selecting the right shirt. Your cufflinks should match your outfit and the occasion. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect pair:
- Match the metal: coordinate the metal of your cufflinks with other accessories, such as your watch, belt buckle, and tie clip. For example, if you’re wearing a silver watch, opt for silver cufflinks
- Consider the occasion: for formal events, choose classic and elegant cufflinks made from precious metals like gold or silver. For less formal occasions, you can experiment with more playful and colourful designs
- Personal style: your cufflinks are an opportunity to showcase your personal style. Whether you prefer a minimalist look or something more intricate and decorative, choose cufflinks that reflect your taste and personality
- Colour coordination: if you’re wearing a tie or pocket square, consider choosing cufflinks that complement these accessories. Matching or coordinating colours can tie your entire outfit together
On our pages, you will find a wide range of watch-inspired cufflinks in various colours, styles, and finishes to match them with your outfit.
How to Put on Cufflinks: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare Your Shirt
Start by preparing your shirt. Lay it out on a flat surface or wear it, leaving the cuffs open and unbuttoned. Ensure that the shirt sleeves are properly aligned and free of wrinkles. This will make it easier to fold the cuffs back and insert the cufflinks.
Step 2: Fold Back the Cuffs
Fold back the cuffs of your shirt so that the edges align perfectly. The folded cuffs should create a clean, crisp line. Make sure the cuff holes are aligned with each other, creating a seamless look.
Step 3: Align the Cuff Holes
Once the cuffs are folded back, align the cuff holes. The holes on both sides of the cuff should be perfectly aligned, creating a straight path for the cufflink to pass through. This alignment is crucial for the cufflinks to sit properly and securely.
Step 4: Insert the Cufflink
Take your cufflink and insert the post through the aligned holes of the cuff. The decorative face of the cufflink should be on the outside of the cuff, while the post goes through the holes. Gently push the cufflink through until the post is fully inserted.
Step 5: Secure the Cufflink
Depending on the type of cufflink you are using, secure it in place:
- Bullet cack and whale cack cufflinks: swivel the bullet or whale tail back to its original position to lock the cufflink in place
- Stud cufflinks: ensure the smaller end is pushed completely through the cuff holes, and the larger face holds the cuffs together
- Chain link cufflinks: pull the chain through the cuff holes until both decorative faces are snug against the fabric
- Silk knot cufflinks: push the knots through the cuff holes until they are securely in place. There is no other clasp or fastener so these are pretty simple to secure
Make sure the cufflinks are fastened securely and sit comfortably on your wrists. Adjust the cuffs if necessary to ensure a neat and polished appearance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best preparation, it’s easy to make mistakes when putting on cufflinks. Avoiding these common pitfalls will help you maintain a polished and sophisticated look.
Misaligned Cuffs: Ensure Proper Alignment
One of the most common mistakes is wearing cufflinks with misaligned cuffs. Misaligned cuffs not only look sloppy but can also cause discomfort. Here’s how to avoid this mistake:
- Double-check alignment: before inserting the cufflinks, ensure that the cuff holes are perfectly aligned. This will make it easier to insert and secure the cufflinks
- Use a mirror: if you’re having trouble aligning the cuffs, use a mirror to help guide you. This can provide a better perspective and ensure that both cuffs are symmetrical
- Adjust as needed: after securing the cufflinks, take a moment to adjust the cuffs. Make sure they sit comfortably around your wrists and that the cufflinks are centred
Inappropriate Cufflinks Style for the Occasion
Wearing the wrong type of cufflinks for the occasion can detract from your overall look. It’s important to choose cufflinks that are appropriate for the event and match your outfit.
- Formal events: for black-tie events, weddings, and other formal occasions, choose classic and elegant cufflinks made from precious metals like gold or silver. Simple designs with subtle embellishments, such as mother-of-pearl or onyx, are perfect for these settings
- Business meetings: in professional settings, opt for understated yet sophisticated cufflinks. Silver or stainless steel cufflinks with a minimalist design are ideal for adding a touch of class without being too flashy
- Casual outings: for more casual events, you can experiment with playful and colourful cufflinks. Silk knots, novelty designs, and vibrant colours can add a fun element to your outfit while still looking stylish
- Personal taste: while it’s important to match the occasion, don’t forget to consider your personal style. Choose cufflinks that you feel comfortable and confident wearing, as this will naturally enhance your overall appearance
On our pages you will find a wide range of watch-inspired cufflinks that you can wear on any occasion, from a casual outing to a formal event.
Tips for Wearing Cufflinks
In addition to avoiding common mistakes, there are several tips that can help you wear cufflinks with confidence and style.
- Match your accessories: coordinate your cufflinks with other accessories, such as your watch, tie clip, and belt buckle. This creates a cohesive and polished look
- Consider the shirt fabric: the thickness of your shirt’s fabric can affect how easy it is to insert and secure your cufflinks. For thicker fabrics, choose cufflinks with a longer post
- Keep spare cufflinks: it’s always a good idea to have an extra pair of cufflinks on hand, especially if you’re attending an important event. This ensures you’re prepared in case of any last-minute issues
- Practice makes perfect: if you’re new to wearing cufflinks, practice putting them on before the event. This will help you become more comfortable with the process and ensure you can do it quickly and correctly
Cufflinks are a stylish and timeless accessory that can elevate your outfit and add a touch of elegance to any occasion. By following our guide, you’ll be able to put on cufflinks with ease and confidence. Remember to choose the right shirt and cufflinks for the event, and avoid common mistakes such as misaligned cuffs and inappropriate styles.
Wearing cufflinks is not just about functionality; it’s also an expression of personal style. Whether you’re attending a formal event, a business meeting, or a casual outing, cufflinks can enhance your look and make a statement. By paying attention to details and following our tips, you can ensure that your cufflinks always complement your outfit perfectly.