Cufflinks may seem a small accessory, but they have the power to elevate any outfit. Whether for a formal event or a sophisticated note on an office outfit (for the more meticulous), cufflinks are close at hand. Often underestimated, they reflect attention to detail and lend a distinguished air. Uncertainty about wearing them correctly is common. Many men avoid the accessory altogether, perceiving it as too formal or complicated to match. Yet a few simple rules can change entirely the way a man looks and feels.
1. From past to present: the history of cufflinks
Cufflinks originated in 17th-century Europe. At first they were an exclusive accessory, reserved for the aristocracy alone. In the 19th century, they became more affordable and grew popular among the middle classes. Over time, they turned from a symbol of wealth into an accessory worn by any man wishing to show his refinement. Today, cufflinks appear at formal and semi-formal events alike, adding a measure of elegance.
2. Cufflinks: technical aspects
Cufflinks fall into two main types: those with a single decorated face and those with two identical faces. Single-faced cufflinks often have a swivel bar fastening. This mechanism makes them easier to handle. Double-faced cufflinks are more elegant, as both faces are carefully worked. Classic shapes include the sphere, the cube, the rectangle, the flat shield, the golf ball and the oval. Materials range from precious metals, such as gold and silver, to modern materials, such as carbon fibre.
3. How to wear cufflinks in semi-formal settings
In semi-formal settings, cufflinks with a simple, discreet design are the right choice, in silver or stainless steel. Single-faced designs are far more appropriate for daytime events, where a refined look is needed without overdoing it. Overly ornate or flashy cufflinks are best avoided. They pair with a double-cuff (French cuff) shirt and a tie in a fairly neutral shade. A tweed sport jacket, or one in another textured cloth, completes a semi-formal outfit perfectly.
4. How to wear cufflinks in formal settings
More distinguished events call for cufflinks in precious metals or with fine inlays, such as pearl or enamel. Classic shapes such as the sphere or the flat shield are ideal for elegant occasions. They pair with a black or navy suit and a plain white shirt with double cuffs. With a tailcoat or a dinner suit, the most sober cufflinks are the answer, with no further ornament. Paired with other metal accessories, such as a tie pin or a lapel pin, they give a coherent look.
5. Cufflinks and accessories: rules that always apply
Cufflinks should match the wristwatch or other metal accessories. A gold watch calls for cufflinks in warm tones. A silver watch calls for silver or stainless steel. Coloured silk cufflinks, known as silk knots, can be worn freely, regardless of the watch. They are, however, more casual and not recommended for formal events. Cufflinks from the same set as the tie are best avoided, as this is considered a serious lapse of taste. Why? Because it suggests no effort went into finding something different. Attention to detail is the key to wearing cufflinks with style.
In short, cufflinks are a detail close at hand, even if truly expensive pairs are not within every hand’s reach. Like a watch, they gain value over time and can pass from father to son. That is why a quality pair is worth the investment. Whether at a semi-formal or a formal event, cufflinks add a touch of elegance. Classic shapes, correctly matched materials and a few simple rules are all it takes to look impeccable.
