Cufflinks are small accessories that make a huge impact. Whether you are dressing for a wedding, a formal business meeting, or just aiming to elevate your everyday style, knowing how to wear cufflinks is essential. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything — from choosing the right cufflinks to wearing them with different shirt types.
Let’s dive into the classy world of cufflinks and elevate your wardrobe game.
Table of Contents
Why Cufflinks Matter in Men’s Fashion
Cufflinks are more than just shirt fasteners. They’re symbols of style, class, and attention to detail. They bring out a gentleman’s personality and add a refined touch to his outfit.
Benefits of Wearing Cufflinks:
- Adds elegance and sophistication
- Great conversation starter
- Completes formal and semi-formal looks
- Available in multiple designs and materials
This guide will cover everything, whether you’re learning how to wear cufflinks for the first time or brushing up your style skills.
Types of Cufflinks You Should Know
Before diving into how to wear cufflinks, it’s important to understand the different types of cufflinks:
1. Bullet Back Cufflinks
The most common type – easy to use and secure.
2. Whale Back Cufflinks
Features a flat head and a tail that flips flat.
3. Chain Link Cufflinks
Vintage and elegant, it offers flexibility between cuffs.
4. Stud or Button Cufflinks
Minimalist and traditional — typically worn for black tie events.
5. Knot Cufflinks
Made from silk or fabric, colourful and casual.
How to Wear Cufflinks: Step-by-Step
Let’s get into the actual process of how to wear cufflinks properly.
Step 1: Choose the Right Shirt
Cufflinks are designed for shirts with:
- French cuffs (double cuffs)
- Convertible cuffs
- Some single cuff shirts (with buttonholes on both sides)
Step 2: Align the Cuff
Fold back the cuff of a double-cuff shirt so that the holes align.
Step 3: Insert the Cufflink
Slide the cufflink through the aligned holes. The decorative side should face outward.
Step 4: Secure It
Lock the cufflink in place, depending on its mechanism.
Now you know how to wear cufflinks — but let’s go deeper with style-specific guides.
How to Wear Cufflinks with a Suit
Pairing cufflinks with a suit? Follow these tips:
- Match cufflinks with your tie clip or watch
- Choose elegant materials like silver or gold for formal events
- Try novelty cufflinks for casual suits or themed events
- Avoid overly flashy designs for business meetings
Pro Tip: When you understand how to wear cufflinks with a suit, you can instantly upgrade your entire look.
How to Put Cufflinks on a Double Cuff Shirt
Double cuff shirts (a.k.a.. French cuffs) are the classic go-to for cufflinks.
Steps:
- Fold the cuff back evenly
- Align the holes
- Insert the cufflink through all four holes
- Fasten according to the cufflink style
Knowing how to put cufflinks on a double cuff shirt is a key style skill every man should master.
How to Use Cufflinks with French Cuff
French cuffs are synonymous with elegance.
Styling Tips:
- Always wear French cuffs with a jacket or blazer
- Choose classic metal cufflinks for formal events
- Match with a pocket square for a complete look
Learning how to use cufflinks in French cuff style is ideal for black-tie or white-tie dress codes.
How to Wear Cufflinks with Single Cuff Shirt
Not all shirts require French cuffs. You can also learn how to wear cufflinks with single cuff shirt that has convertible cuffs.
Quick Guide:
- Look for single cuff shirts with dual buttonholes
- Avoid regular shirts that only have button and hole
- Insert cufflink the same way as with French cuffs
Want to be stylish without being too formal? This method works wonders.
How to Wear Cufflinks with Buttons
Can you wear cufflinks on a shirt with buttons? It depends.
Here’s the answer:
- If the shirt has dual buttonholes, yes.
- If there’s a regular button, you can’t replace it with a cufflink.
If you’re wondering how to wear cufflinks with buttons, look for shirts that give you options — these are called convertible cuff shirts.
How to Style Cufflinks: Expert Tips
Styling is just as important as learning how to wear cufflinks.
Cufflink Styling Tips:
- Match with Accessories: Coordinate with watches, tie clips, and belts
- Choose the Right Occasion: Wear diamonds for black tie, silk knots for casual settings
- Mind the Material: Silver, gold, and enamel are timeless; novelty for flair
- Color Coordination: Match with your shirt or suit color tone
When to Wear Cufflinks
Best Occasions:
- Weddings
- Business Meetings
- Awards or Gala Dinners
- Interviews (with subtle styles)
Remember: Knowing how to wear cufflink includes knowing when to wear them.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wearing cufflinks with regular buttoned cuffs
- Using novelty cufflinks at formal events
- Mismatching metal tones
- Forgetting to align cuff holes properly
FAQs on How to Wear Cufflinks
Can I wear cufflinks with a regular shirt?
Only if it has convertible cuffs or dual buttonholes.
Do cufflinks replace buttons?
Yes, for French cuffs or convertible cuffs.
What are the best cufflinks for beginners?
Bullet back cufflinks – easy to use and secure.
How do I clean and maintain cufflinks?
Use a soft cloth, mild soap, and store them in a dry box.
Are cufflinks still fashionable?
Absolutely — they’ve evolved into timeless accessories.
Can I wear cufflinks daily?
Yes, if your office dress code supports formal wear.
Do cufflinks go on the inside or outside?
The decorative part of the cufflink should always face outside.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Look with the Right Cufflink
Mastering how to wear cufflinks is a simple yet powerful way to upgrade your fashion game. Whether you’re wearing them with a suit, a French cuff, or a single cuff shirt, cufflinks add that touch of elegance every gentleman deserves.
Ready to elevate your style?
