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Last Updated on 24/09/2025 by caroline mcauley

Cufflinks and how they can elevate your style

Cufflinks are like little accessories that add a touch of style to your dress shirts. They come in all sorts of designs and materials, from simple and elegant to bold and fun. Even though they’re small, cufflinks can make a big difference in how you look. Just a pair of stylish cufflinks can transform your outfit from ordinary to extraordinary and help you stand out from the crowd. If you’re a fan of men’s fashion accessories or keen to master the art of wearing cufflinks, here’s everything you need to know.

When to Wear Cufflinks

Cufflinks are typically worn for:

  • Formal events (weddings, galas, black tie)
  • Business or professional settings
  • When wearing a French cuff shirt (double cuffs that fold back)
  • To add personal flair or polish to a regular dress shirt

Pick the Right Cufflinks

When picking cufflinks, think about the colour and style of your outfit. They should match or complement your suit or clothes. They should also match any other accessories like a pocket square, neck tie, bowtie, or leather belt. Also, make sure your cufflinks match the formality of your outfit. For example, classic cufflinks work best with a traditional suit. If the vibe is more casual, you can experiment with bolder colours and designs that show off your personality.

How to Wear Cufflinks

Before you learn how to wear cufflinks, you’ll need to pick the right shirt. That means a shirt with French cuffs or single/convertible cuffs. French cuffs are double-layered and can only be folded back and fastened with cufflinks. On the other hand, single/convertible cuffs can be fastened with either cufflinks or buttons, giving you more options.

 

  • Line Up the Holes
  • Fold the cuff back (if French cuff) so the holes align.
  • Ensure the inside of the cuff touches your wrist.
  • Insert the Cufflink
  • Slide the cufflink through the aligned holes from the outside of the cuff.
  • The decorative part should face outward.
  • Secure the Cufflink
  • Depending on the style:
  • Toggle-style: Flip the bar so it holds the cuff closed.
  • Chain-style: Simply dangle.
  • Stud-style: Push through and it stays in place.

 

How to Style Cufflinks

  • Formal look: Pair silver or black cufflinks with a tux or dark suit.
  • Business look: Match understated cufflinks with your tie clip or watch.
  • Casual-chic: Use silk knots or fun designs with patterned shirts.
  • Coordinate: Match the metal tone of your cufflinks with your belt buckle, watch, or ring.
  • Consider the event: Avoid flashy cufflinks in sombre or conservative environments.

Cufflink Etiquette & Care

Keep them clean—polish silver or gold ones occasionally. Avoid overly flashy or jokey cufflinks in serious business settings. Store them in a box or organizer to prevent scratches.

Display Your Cufflinks with Pride

Since you’ve gone to the trouble of picking out cufflinks, you’ll want to show them off! Whether you’re wearing a suit jacket or a smart blazer, make sure the sleeves are tailored to the perfect length so your cufflinks are easily visible. Aim to leave about half an inch of your shirt cuff below your jacket sleeve. This will allow your cufflinks to be on permanent display, adding a touch of sophistication and style to any outfit.