Having made the decision to wear cufflinks on your next important event, you are faced with another dilemma: What type of cufflink should I buy?
Now there are different varieties out there, some more casual and others a bit formal. Obviously the price point can also range from a few dollars to even hundreds for the most luxurious ones.
If you have spent hours looking at different cufflinks and are still none the wiser, then please join us to read this quick guide to cufflink selections:
Cufflink Designs
Whale Back Cufflink
True to its name, this common cufflink type uses an enclosure mechanism consisting of a flat face with a whale tail which flips back in order to secure the cufflink.
Bullet Back Cufflink
A very popular model is this bullet back cufflink which contains a small elongated cylinder which is set between two bars and can be flipped by 90 degrees. A very easy to use cufflink, which is also my personal favourite.
Fixed Backing Cufflink
As hinted in the name, this cufflink does not have any moving parts which means there is a lower chance of anything breaking here. Some types come in a reversible style so you can either show the front or the back of the cufflink. Mind you, those are a bit more difficult to insert though and might wear out your shirt quicker.
Chain Link Cufflink
A more modern look and reversible – for those who prefer a looser cuff and can be worn on more casual occasions.
Ball Return Cufflink
As the name suggests, you will find a ball on both ends of the cufflinks. An alternative for those who are tired of the classic rectangular and square shapes. Comes in both fixed and chain variations.
Knotted Cufflink
Perfect for the casual day out – the knotted cufflink comes in a much greater variety of colours, are cheaper to buy and easier to use. Obviously less durable than their metal counterparts, but by the time your existing pair wears out, you might have already set your sight on the next one.
Material Types
Stainless Steel
Most common, durable and resilient, extremely safe to wear.
Metal Alloys
Mixture of two or more common/cheap metals, which are on the inexpensive end of metal cufflink.
Enamel
Inexpensive as made from powdered glass. Very decorative and durable.
Silk
Usually found in knotted cufflinks, which are versatile and soft to the touch.
Sterling Silver
A blend of pure silver along with other metal alloys mixed in a 92.5% and 7.5% ratio to harden the material, as pure silver is too soft to be used in jewellery. Bright and durable.
Gold
More expensive than the rest and great for formal events. One of the softer materials though which might be prone to scratching.
Titanium
One of the strongest material out there, combining low weight (density) with high strength. Remarkable corrosion resistance. It’s more expensive than steel, but cheaper than platinum.
Granted, there are definitely more cufflink varieties out there and this list is by no means exhaustive. However, we hope that this article gives you a better idea of which cufflink type to wear on your next event, whether it is a formal interview, a joyous wedding celebration or just the annual student reunion.
There are different types and material combinations to suit every budget and it is your call to select the right cufflink which fits your personal style and wallet.
Browse our Cufflink Collection which offers selected designs in materials ranging from copper to 316L Stainless Steel.
Stay trendy!
Your MAEZU Team