The Guide to Cufflinks

The T-bar is the most widely available type of cufflink. The hinged bar swings shut to let you push it through a buttonhole and then opens to keep the cufflink in place. It easy to put on and take off, and comes with just about any decoration imaginable. However, the decoration is only on one end of the cufflink, dressing only one side of your cuff.

The fixed bar gives a decorative element on both ends of the cufflink, so your cufflink is dressy from any viewing angle. Because there are no moving parts, fixed bar cufflinks tend to be quite long lasting. Hold the larger end and press the smaller end through each buttonhole.

The chain cufflink has two decorative elements connected by a chain instead of a solid bar. Grasp the smaller end and press it through each set of buttonholes one at a time. Once through, simply rotate it into place. This may require a little practice, so allow a few extra minutes the first time you wear them. Some may have identically sized decorative elements.

The snap cufflink consists of two pieces that snap together. You can apply them to your shirt before you dress, then simply snap the two sides together once you’ve put your shirt on. Often found in antique cuff links, the snaps can have a tendency to snap apart with extreme motion.

TIP: If you find cufflinks difficult to put on, consider putting them through the first set of buttonholes before you put on your shirt.