When it comes to adding polish and charm to an outfit, there’s nothing quite like a good pair of cufflinks. Perfect for formal wear as well as business attire, cufflinks do so much more than just keep your cuffs neat. They add an air of sophistication and style to your look while providing the perfect opportunity to showcase your personality. Of course, choosing the right pair of cufflinks isn’t always easy and putting them on can also be difficult. So, to help you up your wrist game, we’ve put together this guide on how to wear cufflinks like a true gentleman.
What Are Cufflinks?
Cufflinks are items of formal jewellery traditionally worn by men. They are used to fasten together the sides of shirt cuffs and are typically worn for formal occasions. Although there are many types of cufflinks available, typical designs include single plate styles, which feature a small swivelling clasp, and linked studs.
Cufflinks vs Studs
While cufflinks and shirts studs are often confused, they are two different items. Although both are worn for formal occasions, they serve two different purposes. Cufflinks are used to fasten the cuffs of a shirt. While studs are also decorative fasteners, they fit into the buttonholes on the front of a tuxedo shirt. However, it’s important to note that cufflinks are available in stud styles.
How to Wear Cufflinks Formally
Black Tie Events
If you’re headed to an event stipulating black tie attire, cufflinks will likely be an essential part of your outfit. To select the perfect pair, look for more formal styles of cufflinks, such as a timeless silver or gold design that appears subtle and sophisticated. Choosing an option that’s elegant yet minimal will add polish to your appearance without detracting from the rest of your outfit. Just ensure they aren’t too simplistic or you’ll run the risk of looking dull. The key is to strike a balance between stylish and understated.
White Tie Events
White tie is another type of dress code. It is slightly more formal than black tie attire and is called upon for highly special events, such as galas and some weddings. As such, it typically requires you to don cufflinks. To nail the look, try selecting a highly formal and elegant pair of cufflinks. While there are many options from which you can choose, consider a sleek mother-of-pearl pair for an appropriately luxurious appearance.
How to Wear Cufflinks at Work
Cufflinks with a White Shirt
If you work in a formal business setting, you may be required or choose to wear cufflinks. However, that doesn’t mean you have to wear the same old boring pair every single day. In fact, cufflinks are a great way to liven up an office outfit without breaking the dress code. In particular, they are an excellent option for enhancing the appearance of a plain white shirt. As a white shirt appears neutral and understated, it’s easy to add a variety of different and exciting cufflink styles. So, don’t be afraid to select a unique option that conveys your personality. But, be sure they also appear polished enough for meetings with the boss and clients.
Cufflinks with a Blue Shirt
If you want to wear cufflinks with a blue shirt to work, you should do so carefully. As coloured cufflinks can easily clash or appear overly bold with a blue shirt, it’s best to keep things a little conservative. To do so, try playing it safe with a pair of silver cufflinks. Doing so will allow you to play with different shapes and designs without appearing inappropriately dressed. Alternatively, if you do want to wear a coloured pair, try opting for cufflinks in a shade of blue that contrasts your shirt. For instance, if your shirt is light blue, add dark blue cufflinks, and vice versa. This will keep your appearance consistent and smart without allowing it to look overly monotonous.
