Cufflinks remain one of the most stylish and refined accessories a man can wear. These small yet powerful pieces of metal, gemstone, or even wood add an instant lift to a dress shirt and suit. While once thought of as strictly formal wear, cufflinks have evolved into versatile accessories that can be worn in many ways. From black‑tie events to relaxed formal occasions and creative office looks, cufflinks add personality and polish. Understanding cufflinks, how to choose them, and how to wear them with confidence can make a significant difference in men’s style.
This guide explores the history of cufflinks, how to choose the best pair for your wardrobe, styling tips for different occasions, top brand recommendations, practical care tips, and the top cufflink trends and styles to watch in 2026. Whether dressing for a wedding, business event, or formal dinner, cufflinks add subtle prestige and visual interest that elevate any outfit.
What Are Cufflinks And Why Do They Matter
Cufflinks are decorative fasteners used to secure the cuffs of a French cuff shirt. Unlike regular shirts that have buttons sewn into the wrist, French cuffs are designed with holes that require cufflinks to join both ends. This design originated in 17th‑century Europe when men sought a more elegant way to fasten shirt cuffs. At that time, the accessory became a symbol of refinement, worn by well‑dressed figures such as diplomats, businessmen, and later, presidents and celebrities.
Today, cufflinks are more than a functional item. They express personal style, elevate formal outfits, and serve as conversation pieces. Modern fashion has broadened its role, with cufflinks appearing in business attire and upscale social settings. Some men even choose to wear cufflinks with denim shirts or sport coats for a striking mix of casual and smart.
The Anatomy Of Cufflinks
Understanding the basic parts of cufflinks helps when choosing the right pair.
Closure Types
The closure mechanism affects how easy the cufflinks are to use and how they look on the wrist:
- Bullet Back – A popular and easy style with a rotating bar that flips into place. This type is reliable and works well on most shirt cuffs.
- Whale Back – Features a flat shape that resembles a whale’s tail. When opened, it flips back for secure fastening and offers a touch of vintage style.
- Fixed Back – Has no moving parts, offering a cleaner look, though it can be more challenging to insert into the cuff.
- Chain Link – Two decorative ends connected by a short chain, offering a classic and antique feel.
- Stud‑Style – Minimalist with no moving parts, this style is often used with formal shirts or vintage outfits.
Materials And Finishes
The material of cufflinks affects how they look, age, and pair with other accessories:
- Stainless Steel – Durable and modern, stainless steel cufflinks hold their shine with minimal care.
- Precious Metals – Silver and gold cufflinks convey luxury and traditional elegance. They are often paired with formal or classic suits.
- Gemstones – Sapphire, onyx, mother of pearl, and lapis lazuli add color and depth to cufflinks, making them stand out in formal settings.
- Wood Or Carbon Fiber – Contemporary materials bring texture and a casual edge, ideal for creative wardrobes.
- Matte Black Or Mixed Metals – These finishes are on trend for modern wardrobes, especially when paired with minimalist style choices.
How To Choose The Right Cufflinks
Choosing cufflinks is not just about picking a pretty pair. The right cufflinks fit your wardrobe, suit the occasion, and reflect personal taste.
Occasion And Style
The purpose of the cufflinks should guide your selection. For business and formal events, simple polished metals, classic shapes, or subtle gemstone accents work best. These designs look refined and professional without drawing too much attention. For weddings or celebrations, more creative designs with color, engraving, or unique shapes add personality and elevate festive attire. In creative workplaces or social occasions with relaxed dress codes, unusual materials like wood, enamel, or carbon fiber offer a stylish twist.
Matching And Coordination
Coordinating cufflinks with other metals in your outfit helps create a cohesive look. Bring cufflinks closer in tone to your watch, belt buckle, shoe hardware, or tie bar. While matching metals exactly is not always necessary, harmonizing the overall palette enhances sophistication.
AI-generated image of a man wearing silver cufflinks paired with a stainless steel watch and double-breasted suit.
Size And Proportion
Cufflinks should complement your shirt cuffs without overpowering them. Standard sizes around 16mm to 20mm work well for most men. Larger or oversized cufflinks make a bolder statement but may feel heavy on delicate fabrics. Consider your wrist size and cuff style when choosing proportions.
Personalization And Gifts
Monogrammed or engraved cufflinks have risen in popularity as gifts and heirlooms. Personalized designs add sentimental value and make cufflinks meaningful presents for milestones like weddings, anniversaries, graduations, or career achievements. Engraved initials or important dates create a deeper connection to the accessory.
Top Cufflink Trends And Styles
Fashion has expanded cufflink styles to fit many tastes and occasions. Trends range from minimalist elegance to bold statements and eco‑conscious designs.
Minimalist And Understated Styles
Clean lines and simple shapes remain popular because they pair effortlessly with business suits and formalwear. Minimal cufflinks in monochrome finishes, brushed metal, or subtle geometric shapes work well with any outfit. They are reliable daily choices that never overpower a look.
Bold And Statement Designs
For those who want to stand out, bold cufflinks make a strong impression. Designs featuring gemstones, vibrant enamel colors, oversized shapes, and intricate detailing are trending. Deep blue lapis, emerald green, and burgundy accents add visual interest and personality, making them ideal for social events or fashion‑forward wardrobes.
Heritage And Vintage‑Inspired Pieces
Cufflinks with classic patterns, Art Deco shapes, and antique metalwork convey timeless style. Vintage‑inspired pieces often incorporate detailed engravings or historic metals like oxidized silver, making them great choices for formal events where heritage meets modern flair.
Sustainable And Eco‑Friendly Cufflinks
With a growing emphasis on ethical fashion, eco‑friendly cufflinks are emerging as stylish and conscious choices. These come in materials like recycled metals, sustainably sourced wood, or upcycled pieces. Eco cufflinks appeal to men who value thoughtful design and environmental responsibility without sacrificing style.
Step By Step: How To Wear Cufflinks
Knowing how to wear cufflinks properly ensures a polished and intentional look.
Choose The Right Shirt
Cufflinks are traditionally worn with French cuff shirts. These shirts have extended cuffs that fold back and create holes for cufflinks. Without the proper shirt, cufflinks cannot be worn. French cuffs are seen as a sign of refined dressing, especially paired with suits and tuxedos. Some brands now offer French cuff dress shirts with subtle patterns or unique colors, making cufflinks even more versatile.
Install Cufflinks Correctly
To secure cufflinks: fold the French cuff back so the holes align, insert the cufflink from the outside, then secure the closure based on the type of cufflink you have. The decorative side should sit on the outside of the wrist. Bullet back and whale back cufflinks are especially easy for beginners, while fixed back and chain link styles offer more traditional charm.
Pair With The Rest Of Your Outfit
Cufflinks shine most when the rest of the outfit is balanced. For formal occasions, pair them with a suit, tie, and polished dress shoes. For semi‑formal events, a tailored blazer and chinos can work with creative cufflink designs. Avoid mixing overly bold cufflinks with equally loud patterns or bright colors elsewhere in the outfit. Balancing simplicity with statement details creates a sophisticated finish.
Best Cufflinks And Brands To Consider
From entry‑level picks to luxury options, here are standout cufflink choices worth considering this year. Each presents a different style approach while maintaining quality and visual appeal.
Classic And Everyday Choices
- Montblanc Urban Spirit Stainless Steel Cufflinks – A timeless pick that pairs well with suits and tuxedos alike, ideal for daily wear and business outfits.
- Merit Ocean Classic Gold Cufflinks – Polished and refined with a minimal design that complements both dark and light suits.
- LOYALLOOK Initial Black Cufflinks – A modern matte finish with an initial detail offers a personal yet understated touch.
These versatile options anchor any wardrobe and work well across many occasions, from office meetings to evening dinners.
Designer And Luxury Options
- Gucci Marmont Silver Malachite Cufflinks – Italian flair with a pop of color that stands out with a tailored suit.
- David Yurman Sculpted Cable Cufflinks – Sterling silver with a twisted cable motif that elevates formal wear.
- Haus of Brilliance Diamond And Black Enamel Cufflinks – Elegant and ideal for black‑tie events or upscale occasions.
- Cartier Juste un Clou Gold Cufflinks – A bold luxury statement seen on style icons at major events.
These designer pieces offer statement quality and craftsmanship. They work particularly well for formal events, evening functions, weddings, and occasions where refined accessories matter.
Unique And Gift‑Ready Options
- MENDEPOT Mother Of Pearl And Lapis Lazuli Cufflinks – Elegant gemstone pairing with classic appeal, ideal for gifts.
- HAWSON Crystal Cufflink And Stud Set – A complete formal accessory set with subtle sparkle that pairs beautifully with tuxedos.
These choices make meaningful gifts for milestones and special events while adding character to any wardrobe.
Cufflinks For Different Occasions
Cufflinks can adapt to many situations, provided the design suits the setting. Here are recommendations based on event type.
Weddings And Special Events
For weddings, choose cufflinks that convey elegance and celebration. Gemstone pieces, engraved sets, or matching studs add meaningful detail to formal attire. Personalized pairs make thoughtful gifts for groomsmen or the groom.
Business And Professional Settings
In professional settings, conservative metals and minimal designs convey seriousness without overshadowing the suit. Soft finishes in silver or brushed metal are especially appropriate for meetings, presentations, and networking events.
Evening And Black‑Tie Events
Evening and black‑tie events call for luxury cufflinks with refined finishes. Diamond accents, black enamel, and high‑end materials elevate tuxedos and formal jackets, helping you stand out in refined settings while maintaining a polished presence.
Creative And Casual Formal
In creative fields or places with less rigid dress codes, cufflinks with unique materials like wood, matte finishes, or custom motifs can add personality without looking out of place. Such pieces work well with tailored blazers and open‑collar shirts while staying grounded in sophistication.
Caring For Your Cufflinks
Proper care ensures cufflinks stay looking sharp for years. Store them in a lined box or a cufflink case to prevent scratches and keep pairs together. After each wear, clean metal cufflinks with a soft cloth to remove dirt and oils. Gemstone or enamel cufflinks may need gentle cleaning with mild soap and water, followed by thorough drying. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage finishes.
Elevate Your Style With Timeless Cufflinks
Cufflinks are more than a decorative detail. This year, they remain a meaningful style element that complements thoughtful dressing. From minimalist stainless steel options that elevate everyday suits to bold gemstone and luxury pairs for formal occasions, cufflinks help define a man’s style with precision and confidence. Choosing the right pair, understanding how to wear them, and caring for them over time will ensure they remain a lasting and expressive part of any wardrobe. With the right cufflinks, even simple outfits gain depth, polish, and individuality that truly make a statement in modern men’s style.
