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They’re sitting in that little box like artifacts from a classier universe, one where people drink whiskey neat and catch flights in blazers. But here’s the truth: cufflinks aren’t just for tuxedos, weddings, or characters on Succession. Worn right, they’re a subtle power move, a flex of quiet confidence, and yes, sometimes pure fun. Dressing up to close a deal or just want to make an entrance? This guide will show you how to wear cufflinks like you were born knowing how.
What to Wear Cufflinks With (So You Don’t End Up Forcing It)
Not every shirt wants cufflinks. And honestly? That’s a blessing. Cufflinks aren’t the kind of accessory you put on and hope for the best. They’re intentional. They show up where they belong, and when they do, they’re sure to impress.
Here are the shirt cuff styles that are meant to go with cufflinks:
French Cuff Shirts
This is the real deal. No buttons at the cuff, just two layers of fabric looking for cufflinks to pull them together. French cuffs are clean, structured, and just formal enough to make you look like you planned this (even if you didn’t). Ideal for weddings, events, and any situation where a suit’s involved and you want to look your best.
Tuxedo Shirts
You're undermining your look if you’re wearing a tux and not wearing cufflinks. Tux shirts almost always come with French cuffs, and cufflinks are part of the uniform. It would even be better if you match your cufflinks with your shirt studs, because tux shirts sometimes come with those too. Welcome to the big leagues.
Convertible Cuffs
Some dress shirts give you options as they come with buttonholes and cufflink holes. These are your “day job to dinner date” shirts. Keep the buttons during the day, swap in cufflinks at night, no change of outfit required. As simple as it sounds, those little accessories play a significant role in how you present yourself in different settings.
What Not to Wear Cufflinks With
Cufflinks have their place, and it’s not on every shirt in your closet. Avoid pairing them with shirts that have button cuffs (also called barrel cuffs). These are designed with sewn-in buttons and aren’t meant to accommodate cufflinks. Likewise, skip the cufflinks with casual shirts like flannels or chambrays. Cufflinks are all about polish and formality, so save them for occasions and outfits that call for a bit of intention and structure.
How to Put on Cufflinks: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’ve chosen your shirt and cufflinks, it’s time for the basics. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide on how to put on cufflinks like a pro:
Step 1: Unbutton the Cuffs
Begin by unbuttoning the cuff at the end of your sleeve. You’ll notice there are two layers of fabric on French cuffs, each with a hole designed to accommodate a cufflink. If your shirt has convertible cuffs, you’ll be able to choose between buttoning or using cufflinks, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Align the Cuffs
Next, align the two ends of the cuff so that the holes are perfectly aligned. This ensures that when you insert the cufflink, the fabric is evenly folded and the cuff sits neatly on your wrist.
Step 3: Prepare the Cufflink
Take your cufflink and adjust its toggle (the small bar on the back). Rotate the toggle so that it is perpendicular to the decorative face of the cufflink. This position allows it to easily slide through the cuff holes.
Step 4. Insert the Cufflink
Carefully slide the post of the cufflink through both holes in the cuff. If you’re using bar cufflinks, slide the post through and then flip the bar to secure it. For knot cufflinks, simply thread the knot through the cuff’s holes. For stud or bullet cufflinks, insert the post and close the latch at the back to secure it in place.
Step 4: Ensure a Secure Fit
Once the cufflink is through the holes, rotate the toggle back so it lies parallel to the face of the cufflink. This locks the cufflink in place and keeps your cuffs neatly fastened. If needed, adjust the fabric to avoid any bunching or uneven folds. The cuff should fit comfortably, without being too tight or too loose.
Spotlight: Gabriel & Co. Cufflinks & When to Wear Them
Not all cufflinks are created equal, and Gabriel & Co. proves it. Our cufflink collection features bold and statement-making to classic and engravable, giving you a cufflink for every kind of occasion (and mood). They also make exceptional gifts; think graduation, birthdays, or anniversaries. Every man should own at least one pair: it’s a subtle way to show attention to detail and a smart addition to any well-rounded wardrobe. Here are a few formal-wear accessories we absolutely love:
These square cufflinks are all about quiet confidence; they’re sleek, smooth, and engravable, and just perfect for milestone moments: anniversaries, formal work functions, or significant celebrations. To make them more special, add your initials or a meaningful date; it’s the kind of detail people notice.
These cufflinks are unapologetically eye-catching. The deep blue lapis inlay, punctuated with a star-like diamond design, makes them ideal for black-tie events, galas, or weddings where you want to stand out. They pair exceptionally well with tuxedos and velvet dinner jackets. Rock it with a signet ring, and you’ll get that polished look you’ve always wanted.
Dramatic yet versatile, these cufflinks work beautifully for cocktail parties, stylish date nights, or upscale events with a creative edge. The black spinel adds a layer of depth and contrast that catches just enough light without being flashy.
This silver pair is minimal with just the right amount of detail. It’s a refined everyday option for boardroom meetings, formal office settings, or smart-casual occasions. We recommend pairing them with silver jewelry, like a bracelet, to pull your whole look together. They’re also engravable, which makes them a thoughtful gift or a subtle signature detail.
Wrapping Things Up
Cufflinks add a sharp finishing touch that speaks volumes without trying too hard. Once you know how to wear cufflinks, they become an easy way to polish your look for any occasion.
Ready to dive deeper into men’s accessories? Explore our men’s jewelry collection. You’re sure to find something for the one who likes to keep it simple and for the one who’s not afraid to go bold.
