The Beginner’s Guide to Choosing & Wearing Cufflinks

Cufflinks are one of the best and easiest ways to polish off your look while at the same time, taking your style to the next level. The rules and trends of fashion are, of course, continually evolving. When it comes to cufflinks, there are two instances in which cufflinks are a must, and they are black and white tie events. These are the occasions when you must pull out all the stops when you break out your best tux or your favorite tailored suit. If ever there was a time to stand out, it’s at a black or white tie events. The thing to remember when choosing your cufflinks for these occasions is that you are trying to look your best. Always dress to impress, but don’t forget to show your unique style and individuality. Fashion’s recent trends have focused on personality, so if you see a great pair of cufflinks that features a unique design, perhaps something that represents one of your favorite hobbies or fandoms, for example, don’t think that you have to go with a classic. If you are an avid Star Wars fan and you want to sport a Vader Helmet Cufflink, go for it.

White & Black Tie Events

The only time when you might want to consider staying on the more traditional path is at the most formal of white tie events – especially if it is a wedding that is formal. At white tie functions, there is only one type of cufflink that will never fail you, and that is the elegant, ever stunning, Mother of Pearl Cufflinks.

These cufflinks are the absolute epitome of elegance, high-fashion, and class. They always look stunning and are guaranteed to make you stand out. You cannot go wrong with pearl cufflinks at a white tie event.

Below are some other choices for black or white tie events that are both at the high and lower end price points.

Everywhere Else

Now that we have covered formal occasions let’s get into the creative elements of cufflinks. Cufflinks are worn most often at formal and business events, but it is important to note that more trendy and modern styles have integrated cufflinks in non-formal places. Fashion is ever-changing and enthusiasts have been using cufflinks to set their styles apart from others.

Outside of formal events is where you can be creative and shine. Whether it’s an interview (dress for the job you want, not the one you have), a date, an important meeting where you need to stand, or a stylish party, cufflinks are perfect for any of these occasions. They elevate your look and mark you as someone who exemplifies both style and class.

When Is It Appropriate To Wear Cufflinks?

The most crucial factor for knowing when and where to bring out your cufflinks is your dress shirt. You will know right away based on the cuffs whether cufflinks are appropriate. The first thing to look is buttonholes on either cuff. If there are no buttons, then you will know that it is a shirt meant for cufflinks. Most dress shirts that require cufflinks will have one of three cuff types.

• • • Barrel Cuffs – The most common type of cuff on modern dress shirts are barrel cuffs. These shirt sleeves come with either one or two buttons. On occasion, no button exists. This is when you can flaunt your favorite pair of cufflinks.
    • French Cuffs – More formal than barrel cuffs, french cuffs feature an extra length that is folded back and fastened together with a pair of cufflinks. This style of shirt cuff is popular for formal events where a tuxedo shirt is worn; however, french cuffs have started to appear more and more in the business world and less formal settings as well.
    • Single Cuffs – Considered by all to be the most formal cuff style, single cuffs feature double cuffs with fold and are fastened together with cufflinks. Dress shirts with a single cuff are worn only for the most formal occasions such as black and white tie event. This being the case, single cuff shirts warrant only the very best pair of cufflinks.

What You Need To Know

Cufflinks take your style to the next level, and the current fashion forecasts have showcased cufflinks on just about any type of shirt that has buttonholes. Keep in mind that if you have a great shirt with buttons, you can have a tailor remove them so you can add a pair of cufflinks. Cufflinks are all about personality and style, so don’t be afraid to express yourself.