Adding a touch of class and sophistication to your outfit, cufflinks are a great accessory for formal occasions. Whether you’re dressing up for a wedding, business meeting, or a fancy dinner, knowing how to properly put on cufflinks can elevate your look. Follow these steps to master the art of wearing cufflinks with style.
1. Choose the Right Cufflinks
Before you can put on cufflinks, you need to choose the right pair that complements your outfit. Here are a few things to consider when selecting cufflinks:
- Match the metal: If you’re wearing a gold watch or belt buckle, opt for gold cufflinks. Similarly, if you’re wearing silver accessories, choose silver cufflinks.
- Coordinate with colors: Make sure the color of your cufflinks complements the overall color scheme of your outfit.
- Choose the right style: From classic designs to novelty shapes, pick cufflinks that reflect your personal style and the occasion you’re dressing for.
2. Prepare Your Cuffs
Before putting on cufflinks, make sure your shirt cuffs are ready. Follow these steps to prepare your cuffs:
- Unbutton the cuffs: Undo the buttons on your shirt cuffs to create an opening for the cufflinks.
- Fold back the cuff: Fold back the cuff so that the buttonholes are aligned.
- Create a clean cuff edge: Smooth out any wrinkles or folds on the cuff to ensure a polished look.
3. Insert the Cufflinks
Now that your cuffs are prepared, it’s time to put on the cufflinks. Follow these steps to insert the cufflinks correctly:
- Hold the cufflink: Grasp the cufflink between your thumb and forefinger, ensuring the decorative side is facing outward.
- Insert the cufflink: Slide the cufflink through the buttonholes on both sides of the shirt cuff, making sure it sits securely in place.
- Secure the cufflink: Depending on the type of cufflink you’re using (swivel-back, clip-on, chain link, etc.), secure it in place to prevent it from coming loose.
4. Align the Cufflinks
Proper alignment of cufflinks is crucial for a polished look. Follow these tips to ensure your cufflinks are perfectly aligned:
- Align the holes: Make sure the holes on both sides of the cuff are matched up before inserting the cufflinks.
- Check the orientation: Ensure that the decorative side of the cufflinks is facing outward and the closure mechanism is hidden inside the cuff.
- Adjust as needed: If the cufflinks are not aligned properly, gently adjust them until they sit symmetrically on both sides of the cuff.
5. Final Touches
Once you’ve put on your cufflinks, make final adjustments to complete your look:
- Smooth out the cuffs: Ensure that the cuffs lie flat and smooth against your wrists for a neat appearance.
- Check for symmetry: Double-check that both cufflinks are aligned evenly and at the same height on each cuff.
- Pair with other accessories: Consider pairing your cufflinks with a matching tie clip, lapel pin, or pocket square for a coordinated ensemble.
6. Practice Makes Perfect
Putting on cufflinks may seem daunting at first, but with practice, it will become second nature. Take the time to perfect your technique and experiment with different styles of cufflinks to find what works best for you.
Now that you know how to put on cufflinks like a pro, you can confidently add this stylish accessory to your formal attire. Whether you’re attending a black-tie event or a business meeting, cufflinks are sure to make a statement and elevate your look.