How to Put on Cufflinks with Style

Cufflinks are a great way to add style and personality to your outfit. They do more than hold your shirt cuffs together—they show attention to detail and make you look polished. Whether it’s a wedding, a business meeting, or a formal event, cufflinks are a perfect choice.

If you want to buy cufflinks, choose a pair that matches your outfit and fits the occasion. Designs like Koa Shield Cuff Links or Koa Shaka Cuff Links are both stylish and unique, making them great options. In this guide, you’ll learn what cufflinks are, the right shirts and events, and their history. Once you know how to wear them, you’ll be ready to make a lasting impression at any event.

What Are Cufflinks?

Cufflinks are accessories used to fasten the cuffs of shirts without buttons on the sleeve ends. They work with shirts like French cuffs or convertible cuffs and come in various shapes, designs, and materials to suit different styles.

Some great examples of cufflinks include:

• Koa Shield Cuff Links: A bold and elegant choice for formal occasions.

• Koa Oval Cuff Links: A classic design that suits any event.

• Koa Shaka Cuff Links: Ideal for a laid-back but stylish look.

Shirts and Events That Suit Cufflinks

Cufflinks aren’t for every shirt or event. Knowing when to wear them can help you stand out for all the right reasons.

Shirts for Cufflinks

• French Cuff Shirts: These are designed specifically for cufflinks.

• Convertible Cuff Shirts: These shirts have the option of using either buttons or cufflinks.

When to Wear Cufflinks

• Formal Events: Weddings, black-tie parties, or special ceremonies are perfect for cufflinks.

• Business Meetings: A sleek pair like Koa Rectangle Cuff Links adds professionalism to your outfit.

• Social Gatherings: Unique designs, such as Koa Honu Cuff Links, work well for semi-formal settings.

A Short History of Cufflinks

Cufflinks have been a symbol of style for centuries. In the 1600s, men tied their cuffs with ribbons. Over time, metal and decorative designs became popular among the wealthy. Today, cufflinks are worn to add elegance and individuality to formalwear.

Here’s how they’ve evolved:

• 1600s: Ribbons were used to secure cuffs.

• 1800s: Metal cufflinks became a sign of wealth and taste.

• Now: Modern cufflinks, like Koa Cuff Links - Paua, combine unique materials and craftsmanship for a standout look.

Different Types of Cufflinks

Cufflinks come in various styles, each designed to suit different preferences and occasions. Knowing the types can help you pick the perfect pair.

Main Types of Cufflinks

1. Bullet Back Cufflinks: These are the most popular type. They have a rotating bar that secures the cufflink in place, making them easy to use.

2. Whale Back Cufflinks: Similar to bullet backs but with a larger flat tail, offering a comfortable and secure fit.

3. Chain Link Cufflinks: These have two decorative ends connected by a chain. They give a classic and elegant look.

4. Fixed Back Cufflinks: These have a solid back with no moving parts, making them sturdy but slightly less flexible.

5. Stud Cufflinks: Minimalist and sleek, these are a great choice for formal occasions.

Matching Cufflinks to Occasions

• Formal Events: Stud or chain link cufflinks are ideal for weddings or black-tie events.

• Business Meetings: Bullet or whale back cufflinks provide a polished yet professional look.

• Semi-Formal Gatherings: Fixed back cufflinks work well for a refined but not overly formal style.

Cufflinks allow you to personalize your look while matching the tone of the event. If you’re looking to buy cufflinks, consider the occasion and how they will complement your outfit.

How to Properly Put on Cufflinks

Putting on cufflinks may initially seem tricky, but it’s simple with the right steps.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Choose the Right Shirt: Ensure your shirt has French or convertible cuffs with holes for cufflinks.

2. Align the Cuffs: Fold the cuffs so the holes on both sides line up.

3. Insert the Cufflinks: Push the decorative side of the cufflink through the holes from the outside of your wrist.

4. Secure the Cufflinks: Depending on the type, rotate or lock the back of the cufflink to hold it in place.

5. Check Alignment: Ensure the cufflinks are symmetrical and aligned for a neat and polished look.

Tips for Keeping Cufflinks Secure

• Choose the right size to fit the shirt holes snugly.

• Avoid overly loose cuffs, as they can make the cufflinks shift.

• Regularly check throughout the day to ensure they stay in place.

How to Add Style When Wearing Cufflinks

Cufflinks add character to any formal outfit. The right pair can make your look stand out while demonstrating your attention to detail. 

Matching Cufflinks to Your Outfit

Your cufflinks should blend with your outfit:

• Match them with your suit, tie, or watch for a coordinated look.

• Choose cufflinks that reflect your personality:

• Classic: Simple shapes like ovals or rectangles.

• Modern: Clean, minimal designs.

• Bold: Bright colors or unique materials like koa wood.

Cufflinks that match your outfit show thoughtfulness and complete your style.

Choosing Cufflinks for Different Occasions

Pick cufflinks that fit the event:

• Business Meetings: Minimal designs in silver or gold work best.

• Weddings or Celebrations: Try bold designs like koa wood cufflinks or those with unique patterns.

Different cufflinks for different occasions help you dress appropriately while still standing out.

Materials and Finishes

The material of your cufflinks adds to their appeal. Popular options include:

• Metal: A classic choice in gold, silver, or stainless steel.

• Wood: Natural and unique, like the koa wood cufflinks from Martin & MacArthur.

• Stones: Gemstones or Paua shells for a touch of luxury.

Koa wood cufflinks combine traditional craftsmanship with a unique Hawaiian touch, making them perfect for formal and special occasions.

Why Cufflinks Matter

Cufflinks show that you care about the details. They make your outfit look complete and polished. A good pair of cufflinks can turn an ordinary suit into something exceptional.

Explore the handcrafted options at Martin & MacArthur for cufflinks that offer style and durability. They create cufflinks that stand out and last a lifetime.

Cufflinks as Gifts

Cufflinks are thoughtful and practical gifts for life’s big moments.

• Weddings: A great gift for grooms, groomsmen, or as a wedding keepsake.

• Anniversaries: Personal and timeless, they’re perfect for marking a special day.

• Special Occasions: Great for family members, friends, or anyone who appreciates style.

Personalized cufflinks, like those from Martin & MacArthur, make the gift even more meaningful. Their unique koa wood designs add charm and sentimental value.

Cufflinks are a gift that combines style, utility, and thoughtfulness. If you’re looking for high-quality, handcrafted options, explore the collection at Martin & MacArthur.

How Martin & MacArthur Can Help You Find the Perfect Cufflinks

Martin & MacArthur offers a stunning cufflinks collection that blends elegance with heritage. Our signature koa wood cufflinks stand out for their natural beauty and craftsmanship. These cufflinks are stylish and reflect the rich Hawaiian tradition and commitment to sustainability.

The koa wood cufflinks are handcrafted carefully, showcasing the unique grain and color of one of Hawaii’s most treasured woods. Whether you need cufflinks for a formal event, a business meeting, or a meaningful gift, their collection has something for everyone.

If you want to buy cufflinks, Martin & MacArthur offers options that combine style, sustainability, and quality. Explore their collection to find cufflinks that add the perfect finishing touch to your formal outfits.

FAQ

How do I know which cufflinks to choose for a specific occasion? Can I wear cufflinks with any shirt? What are the best cufflinks for gifting? How do I care for my cufflinks?