The Insider's Guide to Choosing Cufflinks That Don't Suck

Published on: November 10, 2024
Man about to have cufflinks placed on him.
A pair of cufflinks
A collection of cufflinks
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Let's face it - most guys default to those cheap, mass-produced cufflinks that look like they came from a holiday cracker. We get it - navigating the world of men's accessories can be overwhelming. But cufflinks deserve better. These tiny pieces of functional art have the power to transform an ordinary shirt into something extraordinary.
The cufflink landscape has evolved far beyond the stuffy world of corporate boardrooms and black-tie events. Today's options range from heritage-inspired pieces to avant-garde designs that make bold statements. Whether you're dressing for a wedding, important meeting, or just want to add some personality to your French cuffs, we're here to help you level up your cufflink game.
We'll walk you through everything from spotting quality craftsmanship to matching different styles with occasions. By the end, you'll know exactly how to build a collection that reflects your personality while steering clear of tacky novelty designs or overpriced brand names.

Beyond Basic: What Makes Cufflinks Worth Their Salt

High-end cufflinks aren't just about precious metals and flashy stones. The devil's in the details - and we're talking about elements that separate the mediocre from the magnificent.

Materials That Mean Business

The foundation of any great pair starts with the base materials:
  1. Gold: Yellow, white, or rose gold offer timeless appeal. But here's the thing about gold-plated versions - they'll eventually wear down and look shabby. Solid gold is worth the investment if you can swing it.
  2. Sterling Silver: Our go-to recommendation for most guys. It delivers sophisticated looks without breaking the bank, plus it's easy to maintain.
  3. Precious & Semi-precious stones: From diamonds to lapis lazuli, stones add character. Mother-of-pearl remains a classic choice that works in virtually any setting.

Craftsmanship Clues

Mother of pearl cufflinks.

Mother of pearl cufflinks.

Quality cufflinks reveal their pedigree through:
  • Clean lines and precise engravings
  • Smooth mechanical actions
  • Secure stone settings
  • Double-sided designs (versus basic toggle backs)
We especially appreciate when makers take the time to finish both sides of the cufflink, rather than leaving one side plain.

Finding Your Signature Pair

Selecting cufflinks isn't just about following rules - it's about discovering pieces that resonate with your personal style while respecting the occasion.

Occasion-Specific Selection

A collector's edition of vintage cufflinks.

A collector's edition of vintage cufflinks.

Different events call for different approaches:
  • Black Tie: Keep it classic with mother-of-pearl or onyx
  • Business: Opt for understated metals or subtle patterns
  • Creative Events: This is where you can have more fun with colors and unconventional materials

Style Considerations

Think about:
  • Your existing wardrobe colors
  • The formality of your typical events
  • Whether you prefer classic or contemporary aesthetics
  • How much attention you want your cufflinks to draw

Where Smart Shoppers Score Quality Cufflinks

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The secret to finding exceptional cufflinks isn't always about heading to the biggest names in luxury. We've discovered some fantastic sources that deliver quality without the typical markup.

Independent Artisans & Boutiques

Smaller makers like Skinny Vinny, Agmes, and Jenny Bird often provide better value than mainstream luxury brands. Their pieces tend to have more character and craftsmanship per dollar spent.

Traditional Retail

  1. Department store jewelry counters: Good for last-minute purchases
  2. Specialty men's shops: Think Brooks Brothers and Turnbull & Asser
  3. High-end jewelers: The usual suspects like Tiffany and Cartier

Online Marketplaces

For vintage finds and unique pieces, we recommend:
  • Curated luxury sites like Mr. Porter
  • Specialty vintage dealers
  • Custom jewelry platforms

Keeping Your Investment Looking Sharp

Cufflinks and bowties are formal wear's dynamic duo.

Cufflinks and bowties are formal wear's dynamic duo.

Even the finest cufflinks need proper care to maintain their luster and functionality over time.

Storage Solutions

We're big fans of dedicated cufflink cases with individual compartments. At minimum, keep pairs separated in soft pouches to prevent scratching.

Material-Specific Care

Different materials demand different approaches:
Sterling Silver: A polishing cloth works wonders for regular maintenance Gold: Gentle soap and water usually does the trick Stones & Pearls: Avoid water exposure; stick to dry cleaning methods

The Last Word on Leveling Up Your Cuff Game

Building a solid cufflink collection takes time and thoughtful curation. Start with versatile pieces that can handle multiple occasions, then gradually add more distinctive options as your style evolves. Remember - quality over quantity always wins in the long run.
Focus on pieces that speak to you personally rather than chasing trends or brand names. The best cufflinks aren't just accessories - they're small but mighty expressions of individual style that can become tomorrow's heirlooms.
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