How To Wear Cufflinks: A Complete Guide To Put On Cufflink for Men

Cufflinks may be small, but they can completely transform the way you look. Whether you're dressing for a wedding, an important business meeting, a black-tie event, or simply want to elevate your everyday formalwear, knowing how to wear cufflinks is a style skill every modern gentleman should have.

These timeless accessories often seem more complicated than they really are. The good news? Once you understand the basics, wearing cufflinks takes just a few seconds and instantly adds a polished, sophisticated finish to your outfit.

In this complete guide, you'll learn how to wear cufflinks step by step, discover which shirts are compatible, understand different cufflink styles, and find out how to use cufflinks on regular shirts, button cuffs, and suits. 

We'll also share expert styling tips, common mistakes to avoid, and answers to the most frequently asked questions so you can wear cufflinks with confidence, no matter the occasion.

What Are Cufflinks?

Cufflinks are small accessories used to fasten the cuffs of dress shirts that don't have sewn-on buttons. They replace traditional buttons by passing through the buttonholes on both sides of the cuff, keeping them securely closed while adding a polished, sophisticated touch to your outfit.

How Do Cufflinks Work?

To wear cufflinks, align the cuff buttonholes, insert the cufflink through both layers, and secure its fastening mechanism. This keeps the cuffs neatly in place and adds a refined finish to your formal or business attire.

Why Do People Wear Cufflinks?

Cufflinks combine function with style. They enhance formal outfits, complement business wear, and are a popular choice for weddings, black-tie events, and special occasions. Available in a variety of designs and finishes, they also let you showcase your personal style with subtle elegance.

Which Shirts Can You Wear with Cufflinks?

Before learning how to wear cufflinks, it's important to know whether your shirt is designed to accommodate them. While cufflinks are most commonly associated with formal dress shirts, they aren't limited to just one style. Depending on the cuff design, you may be able to wear cufflinks with several types of shirts.

Here's a closer look at the most common options.

French Cuff Shirts (The Classic Choice)

French cuff shirts are the traditional and most elegant option for wearing cufflinks. Unlike standard shirts, they don't have sewn-on buttons at the wrist. Instead, the cuffs are longer and designed to fold back on themselves, creating a double-layered cuff with aligned buttonholes.

If you're attending a wedding, black-tie event, gala, or formal business function, French cuffs paired with well-chosen cufflinks create a timeless and sophisticated look.

Convertible Cuff Shirts

These shirts feature buttonholes on both sides of the cuff, allowing you to wear them with a pair of cufflinks.

They're an excellent choice if you want the flexibility to dress casually on some days and more formally on others without needing separate shirts. If you're just beginning to build a formal wardrobe, convertible cuffs are a practical investment.

Regular Daily Wear Shirt

Many people wonder how to use cufflinks on a regular shirt. Most regular dress shirts have barrel cuffs with permanently sewn buttons. Since there isn't a second buttonhole for the cufflink to pass through, standard cufflinks cannot be used without altering the shirt.If your regular shirt only has sewn-on buttons and no extra buttonhole, it's best to wear it as intended or consider a convertible or French cuff shirt for a cleaner, more polished appearance.

Cufflinks with Button Cuffs

Another common question is how to use cufflinks with buttons. Traditional button cuffs are not designed for cufflinks because the button permanently closes the cuff.  If you regularly wear cufflinks, choosing French cuff or convertible cuff shirts is the better long-term option. They not only look more refined but also ensure your cufflinks sit correctly and remain secure throughout the day.

Quick Comparison: Which Shirts Work Best?

How to Put on Cufflinks: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you know which shirts are compatible, it's time to learn how to wear cufflinks. While they may look intimidating if you've never used them before, the process is surprisingly simple. Once you've done it a couple of times, putting on cufflinks becomes as easy as fastening a button.

Whether you're getting ready for a boardroom presentation, a wedding, or a formal dinner, these simple steps will help you wear cufflinks with confidence.

Step 1: Prepare Your Shirt Cuffs

Start by putting on your dress shirt and ensuring the cuffs are unfolded and smooth. If you're wearing a French cuff shirt, fold each cuff back neatly so the buttonholes line up perfectly. For convertible cuffs, simply bring the two sides of the cuff together.

Taking a moment to align the cuffs properly makes inserting the cufflinks much easier and gives your sleeves a cleaner, more polished appearance.

Step 2: Align the Buttonholes

Bring the edges of the cuff together so the buttonholes on both sides are perfectly aligned. Depending on the style of your shirt, you'll be passing the cufflink through either two or four layers of fabric.

If the holes don't line up naturally, gently adjust the fabric instead of forcing the cufflink through. Proper alignment prevents wrinkles and helps your cufflinks sit securely throughout the day.

Step 3: Insert the Cufflink

This is the key step in how to put on cufflinks.

Hold the cufflink with its fastening mechanism open. Carefully slide the post through all the aligned buttonholes until the decorative face rests neatly against the outside of the cuff.

Step 4: Secure the Fastening

Once the cufflink has passed through the buttonholes, lock it into place according to its design.

• Bullet-back cufflinks: Rotate the bullet-shaped bar so it sits horizontally behind the cuff.

• Whale-back cufflinks: Flip the whale-tail mechanism flat to secure the cuff.

• Chain-link cufflinks: Simply allow the chain to rest naturally between the cuffs.

• Fixed-back cufflinks: Push the fixed post through the buttonholes until it sits securely.

A properly fastened cufflink should hold the cuff firmly without feeling too tight or restricting wrist movement.

Step 5: Check the Orientation

Before moving on, look at both sleeves.

The decorative face of each cufflink should be visible from the outside, while the fastening mechanism remains hidden on the inside of your wrist. Both cufflinks should sit at the same angle for a balanced, professional appearance.

This small finishing touch makes a noticeable difference, especially during business meetings or formal events where details matter.

Step 6: Repeat for the Other Sleeve

Repeat the same process for your opposite cuff.

Once both cufflinks are in place, flex your wrists naturally to ensure they're comfortable and secure. Your cuffs should remain closed while allowing enough movement for everyday activities.

Tip: Which Way Should Cufflinks Face?

One of the most common questions beginners ask is whether there's a correct direction for cufflinks.

In most cases, the decorative face should point outward so it's visible when your arms rest naturally by your sides. The fastening mechanism should remain hidden on the inside of the cuff. This creates the clean, elegant look associated with well-dressed gentlemen.

How to Put on Cufflinks with One Hole

One of the most common questions people have is how to put on cufflinks with one hole. The short answer is that it depends on the type of shirt you're wearing. Traditional cufflinks are designed to pass through two matching buttonholes one on each side of the cuff. If your shirt only has a single buttonhole with a permanently attached button on the opposite side, you won't be able to fasten standard cufflinks in the usual way.

Here's what you can do instead.

Check If Your Shirt Has Convertible Cuffs

At first glance, some dress shirts look like regular button-cuff shirts but actually feature convertible cuffs. These cuffs have an extra buttonhole that allows you to wear either the shirt button or a pair of cufflinks.

If your shirt has this design:

1. Leave the cuff button unfastened.

2. Fold the cuff as instructed by the manufacturer.

3. Align the buttonholes.

4. Insert your cufflink through both holes.

5. Secure the fastening mechanism.

This is the simplest way to enjoy the look of cufflinks without investing in a separate French cuff shirt.

Choose a French Cuff Shirt

If your shirt genuinely has only one buttonhole, the best solution is to wear a French cuff shirt. French cuffs are specifically designed for cufflinks, providing a secure fit and a cleaner, more elegant appearance. They're the preferred choice for weddings, business events, black-tie occasions, and anyone who regularly wears formal attire.

Use Cufflink Adapters (When Appropriate)

If you occasionally want to wear cufflinks with a standard button-cuff shirt, cufflink adapters are available. These accessories create an attachment point for cufflinks without permanently modifying the shirt. While adapters can work in a pinch, they generally don't offer the same polished look or secure fit as shirts designed for cufflinks. If you wear cufflinks often, investing in convertible or French cuff shirts is the better long-term choice.

What Not to Do

Avoid trying to force a cufflink through fabric that isn't designed to accommodate it. Doing so can:

• Stretch or damage the cuff.

• Distort the shirt's shape.

• Cause the cufflink to come loose during the day.

• Create an untidy appearance.

A well-fitted shirt and properly fastened cufflinks will always look more refined than a makeshift solution.

Which Cufflink Type Is Best for Beginners?

If you're purchasing your first pair, bullet back or whale back cufflinks are the easiest to use. Their simple locking mechanisms make them quick to fasten while providing a secure fit throughout the day.

Once you're comfortable wearing cufflinks, you can expand your collection with fixed back or chain link styles for more formal occasions.

Choosing the Right Cufflinks for the Occasion

The best cufflinks don't just match your shirt—they complement the occasion and the rest of your outfit.

• Business meetings: Choose simple silver, gold, or stainless-steel bullet back cufflinks.

• Weddings: Opt for elegant metal finishes, mother-of-pearl, or gemstone cufflinks that coordinate with your suit and accessories.

• Black-tie events: Stick to understated, premium designs that enhance your tuxedo without drawing too much attention.

• Smart casual occasions: Silk knot cufflinks or minimalist metal designs add personality while keeping the look refined.

By selecting the right style for the occasion, you'll not only wear cufflinks correctly but also create a polished, well-balanced outfit that reflects attention to detail.

Types of Cufflinks: Which Style Is Right for You?

Not all cufflinks are created equal. While they all serve the same purpose keeping your shirt cuffs securely fastened their fastening mechanisms, ease of use, and overall style can vary significantly.

If you're buying your first pair, understanding the different types of cufflinks will help you choose one that's both practical and suited to your wardrobe.

1. Bullet Back Cufflinks

Bullet back cufflinks are the most popular and beginner-friendly style. They feature a decorative front with a cylindrical bullet-shaped bar that rotates into place.

To wear them, simply rotate the bar into a straight position, slide it through the cuff buttonholes, and turn it back horizontally to lock it in place.

Best for: Office wear, business meetings, interviews, and first-time cufflink users.

Why choose them? They're secure, easy to fasten, and available in countless designs.

2. Whale Back Cufflinks

Whale back cufflinks work similarly to bullet backs but use a flat, whale-tail-shaped toggle instead of a cylindrical bar.

They're quick to put on and stay firmly in place throughout the day, making them a favourite for professionals who wear cufflinks regularly.

Best for: Everyday formal wear, conferences, and corporate events.

Why choose them? Their simple locking mechanism makes them one of the easiest styles to use.

3. Fixed Back Cufflinks

Unlike bullet or whale back styles, fixed back cufflinks don't have a moving mechanism. The decorative front is permanently attached to a fixed post, often with a rounded backing that slides through the cuff.

Because there's no hinge, they can take slightly longer to insert, but many people appreciate their refined craftsmanship and premium appearance.

Best for: Weddings, gala dinners, and luxury formalwear.

Why choose them? Elegant design with fewer moving parts and a timeless aesthetic.

4. Chain Link Cufflinks

Chain link cufflinks feature decorative pieces connected by a small chain instead of a rigid post.

The flexible chain gives the cuff a little more movement and creates a distinctive vintage-inspired look that's popular among classic menswear enthusiasts.

Best for: Traditional formal events and vintage-inspired outfits.

Why choose them? Comfortable to wear and visually distinctive.

5. Stud or Button-Style Cufflinks

These minimalist cufflinks use a simple post without a hinged fastening mechanism. They're commonly paired with tuxedos and dress shirts for black-tie occasions.

While they look exceptionally elegant, they can require a little more patience to put on.

Best for: Black-tie dinners, award ceremonies, and formal evening events.

Why choose them? Clean, understated sophistication.

6. Silk Knot Cufflinks

Silk knot cufflinks are made from woven silk cord rather than metal. Lightweight, colourful, and affordable, they're a popular choice for business casual outfits and less formal occasions.

Although they don't have the same luxurious feel as precious metal cufflinks, they offer versatility and comfort.

Best for: Business casual settings, daytime events, and travel.

Why choose them? Comfortable, lightweight, and available in a wide range of colours.

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Styling Tips: How to Wear Cufflinks with Confidence

Learning how to wear cufflinks is only half the equation. The real difference lies in styling them thoughtfully. A well-chosen pair of cufflinks can tie your entire outfit together, while the wrong choice can feel out of place.

Whether you're dressing for work, a wedding, or a formal celebration, these expert tips will help you wear cufflinks with confidence and sophistication.

Match Your Cufflinks with Other Accessories

For a cohesive look, coordinate your cufflinks with the metal finish of your other accessories.

• Silver cufflinks pair well with silver watches, tie bars, and belt buckles.

• Gold cufflinks work best with gold-toned watches and jewellery.

• Black or gunmetal cufflinks complement modern suits and evening wear.

You don't need every accessory to be identical, but keeping the finishes consistent creates a polished, intentional appearance.

Expert Tip: If you're wearing cufflinks for the first time, practise fastening them before the day of your event. It's much easier to get comfortable with the mechanism when you're not in a rush.

Dress for the Occasion

Different occasions call for different cufflink styles.

• Business meetings: Choose understated designs in silver, stainless steel, or brushed metal.

• Weddings: Mother-of-pearl, engraved, or gemstone cufflinks add a refined touch without overpowering your outfit.

• Black-tie events: Stick to elegant, minimalist designs that complement a tuxedo.

• Festive celebrations: Tasteful coloured stones or enamel accents can add personality while remaining sophisticated.

When in doubt, simplicity is always a safe choice.

Coordinate with Your Shirt and Suit

Your cufflinks should enhance your outfit rather than compete with it.

A crisp white shirt provides the perfect backdrop for almost any cufflink style, while light blue and pastel shirts pair beautifully with silver or white-gold finishes. If you're wearing patterned shirts, opt for understated cufflinks that don't overwhelm the overall look.

Keep the Design Proportionate

Oversized novelty cufflinks may be fun, but they're rarely appropriate for professional or formal settings.

Instead, choose cufflinks that sit comfortably within the width of your cuff. Smaller, well-crafted designs often look more elegant and versatile, especially if you wear cufflinks regularly.

Invest in Quality Over Quantity

A few well-made cufflinks will serve you better than a large collection of inexpensive alternatives.

Look for durable materials such as stainless steel, sterling silver, gold, or high-quality plated finishes. Premium cufflinks not only last longer but also retain their appearance after years of use.

If you attend formal events regularly, consider building a small collection that includes:

• A classic silver pair for business wear.

• A gold pair for special occasions.

• A minimalist black pair for evening events.

• A personalised or engraved pair for weddings and celebrations.

Store Your Cufflinks Properly

To keep your cufflinks looking their best, store them in a dedicated jewellery or accessory box. This helps prevent scratches, tarnishing, and misplaced pieces.

Before wearing them, wipe away fingerprints with a soft microfibre cloth to maintain their shine.

Ultimately, cufflinks aren't about showing off. They're a subtle expression of personal style, attention to detail, and confidence—qualities that never go out of fashion.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Wearing Cufflinks

Even after learning how to wear cufflinks, small mistakes can affect the overall look of your outfit. Avoid these common errors to keep your cufflinks secure and your style polished.

1. Wearing the Wrong Shirt

Cufflinks work best with French cuff or convertible cuff shirts. Standard button-cuff shirts usually aren't designed to accommodate them.

2. Misaligned Buttonholes

Always line up the cuff buttonholes before inserting the cufflinks. Proper alignment makes fastening easier and gives a cleaner finish.

3. Not Securing the Cufflinks

If you're wearing bullet-back or whale-back cufflinks, make sure the locking mechanism is fully closed to prevent them from slipping out.

4. Choosing the Wrong Style for the Occasion

Keep novelty cufflinks for casual events. For business meetings, weddings, and formal occasions, opt for classic, understated designs.

5. Mixing Metal Finishes

Match your cufflinks with accessories like your watch, tie bar, or belt buckle for a coordinated and sophisticated look.

6. Prioritising Style Over Comfort

If you'll be wearing cufflinks all day, choose lightweight styles such as bullet-back or whale-back designs for maximum comfort.

7. Ignoring Shirt Fit

A well-fitted shirt helps your cufflinks sit correctly and enhances your overall appearance.

8. Forgetting Cufflink Care

Clean your cufflinks with a soft cloth after use and store them in a protective case to maintain their shine and prevent scratches.

Mastering how to wear cufflinks is a simple skill that can instantly elevate your formal wardrobe. By choosing the right shirt, fastening your cufflinks correctly, and matching them to the occasion, you'll create a polished, confident look every time. Whether you're dressing for the office, a wedding, or a black-tie event, the right pair of cufflinks adds the perfect finishing touch.