Types of Cufflinks

 

Cufflinks add a unique touch to any formal attire, elevating the overall elegance of an outfit. They come in various styles that cater to different tastes and occasions. From classic metal cufflinks to novelty designs, there's a type for every wardrobe and event.

The types of cufflinks available are extensive, ranging from sophisticated bullet backs to the more casual silk knots. Each style has its own mechanism and appeal, offering versatility in fashion preferences.

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of cufflinks! 

Different Types of Cufflinks

Before anything else, it is important to highlight that there are different kinds of cufflinks for every personality—the sky's the limit. 

Exploring the different types of cufflinks reveals a range of designs, each with its distinct style and functionality. Choices can be tailored to personal taste, ease of use, and the formality of the occasion. Let’s have a quick look at the most popular styles of cufflinks that are bound to make your outfit pop with sophistication!

Bullet Back and Toggle Cufflinks

Bullet back and toggle cufflinks feature a small cylindrical bar that swivels at a 90-degree angle. Easy to use, they are highly popular due to their reliable and simple mechanism. To secure them, simply insert the bullet through the cuff’s holes and then swivel the bar. They are a preferred choice for those seeking both style and functionality.

 

Whale Back Cufflinks 

Whale back cufflinks have a flat, solid, straight post with a "whale tail" that flips back to lock the cufflink in place. These provide a secure fit and are easy to fasten. The large tail offers an excellent surface area for intricate designs or engravings, making them suitable for both everyday wear and special events.

If you’re always on the go with barely a minute to spare, these quick and easy types of cufflinks will become your newest closet staple. 

Fixed Back Cufflinks

Are you a minimalistic-less-is-more type of fashionista? If you just nodded, then fixed back cufflinks are waving at you. 

Fixed back cufflinks are cut from a single piece of metal, giving them a polished and elegant aesthetic. These styles of cufflinks feature a solid post with the back attached, offering reliable durability. The stationary post makes them slender and convenient but may require a bit more effort to fasten through the cuff’s holes.

 

Chain Link Cufflinks

Chain link cufflinks are made up of two decorative heads connected by a small chain. This vintage cufflink style is a crowd favourite thanks to its flexibility and movement, providing a dual-sided finish. 

These kinds of cufflinks tend to radiate a classic and somewhat formal appearance, often seen in more traditional or ceremonial dress codes.

 

Knot Cufflinks

Knot cufflinks, usually made of silk or metal, emulate the shape of a knot. These versatile options are ideal for casual and semi-formal ensembles. To boot, silk knots are incredibly affordable and come in various colours, whereas metal knots are a more durable and elaborately designed option.

 

Ball Return Cufflinks

Just as their name suggests, ball return cufflinks feature a curved post ending in a small ball, which clicks into place to lock the cuff in place. The keywords here are elegance and ease of use with a touch of modern flair. The ball serves as a subtle yet sophisticated detail, often donned during upscale engagements and corporate affairs.

 

Stud or Button Style

Stud or button style cufflinks embody the idiomatic expression “simplicity is beauty.” These styles of cufflinks consist of a plain stem with either a disc or decorative end. They are notably secure, given their straightforward locking features. 

If you have a black-tie event on your calendar, you can count on stud or button style cufflinks to be your suit’s minimalistic yet functional best friends. 

They appeal to those favouring minimalistic yet functional accessories, frequently used for black-tie events due to their sleek simplicity. That said, if you have Best Man duties to fulfill, wedding cufflinks will do the trick for your outfit of the day! The same goes for the modern-day Maid of Honour, because women’s cufflinks are here to remind you that girls can rock the bedazzled cuff trend too! 

 

Locking Dual-Action Cufflinks

Do you often find yourself losing a cufflink every now and then? 

If so, you can gain an extra layer of security by opting for locking dual-action cufflinks. 

Locking dual-action cufflinks are crafted with a hinge mechanism that opens and closes, locking the cufflink securely in place. Apart from being known for their secure fit without sacrificing elegance, these types of cufflinks are perfect for dynamic environments where longer-lasting wear is required. They’re not picky; anywhere works!

 

Bar Cufflinks 

Bar cufflinks consist of a simple metal bar with an end that swivels to secure the cuff. Known for their aesthetic appeal and easy breezy mechanism, they provide a streamlined look. Often understated, they cater to those who prefer a minimalist approach while maintaining a sophisticated edge. 

 

A Summary: The Types of Cufflinks 

Type of Cufflinks	Description
Bullet Back and Toggle	Bullet back and toggle cufflinks feature a small cylindrical bar that swivels at a 90-degree angle.  To secure them, simply insert the bullet through the cuff’s holes and then swivel the bar.
Whale Back	Whale back cufflinks have a flat, solid, straight post with a "whale tail" that flips back to lock the cufflink in place.
Fixed Back	Fixed back cufflinks are cut from a single piece of metal, giving them a polished and elegant aesthetic. These styles of cufflinks feature a solid post with the back attached, offering reliable durability.
Chain Link	Chain link cufflinks are made up of two decorative heads connected by a small chain.  This vintage cufflink style is a crowd favorite thanks to its flexibility and movement, providing a dual-sided finish.
Knot	Knot cufflinks, usually made of silk or metal, emulate the shape of a knot.  These versatile options are ideal for casual and semi-formal ensembles.
Ball Return	Ball return cufflinks feature a curved post ending in a small ball, which clicks into place to lock the cuff in place.
Stud or Button Style	Stud or button style cufflinks consist of a plain stem with either a disc or decorative end.
Locking Dual-Action	Locking dual-action cufflinks are crafted with a hinge mechanism that opens and closes, locking the cufflink securely in place.
Bar	Bar cufflinks consist of a simple metal bar with an end that swivels to secure the cuff.

Material and Design Aspects of Cufflinks

Cufflink materials exhibit diverse design elements that target a variety of style preferences. The choice of materials and designs greatly influences the aesthetic and functional qualities of these refined accessories.

Precious Metals and Stones

Cufflinks made from precious metals such as gold, silver, and sterling silver are highly esteemed in fashion. Gold cufflinks, often associated with luxury and status, can be found in yellow, white, and rose gold variations. Silver and sterling silver cufflinks are popular for their versatility and shine. Alongside these metals, diamonds and other gemstones like mother-of-pearl are frequently used to embellish cufflinks, adding a touch of extravagance and sophistication. On top of that, if you’re a fan of the spiritual meaning behind precious stones, then you are bound to wear purity, wisdom, and transformation on your sleeve (literally) when you clip on a pair of pearl cufflinks.

Contemporary Materials

Modern cufflinks often incorporate contemporary materials such as copper, glass, and enamel. These materials offer diverse styles, from the sleek and polished to the bold and colourful. Copper, for instance, is known for its warm tone, while enamel provides a platform for a vibrant edge. Glass cufflinks can be transparent or coloured, allowing for ethereal expressions to take centerstage. These materials reflect modern trends while maintaining the standards of elegance that cufflinks are associated with. 

Rather than the classic gold or silver aesthetic, contemporary designs often include a variety of colours and shapes, from black cufflinks that make a sleek statement to guitar-themed cufflinks that speak volumes about your love for music. 

A Treasure Trove of Cufflinks

From Melbourne, Australia, to the world, AusCufflinks has put its name on the map for product quality that is second to none. 

The different types of cufflinks found in our extensive catalogue were designed to transcend standards and mirror our commitment to exceptional artisanship.

Browse and shop your favourite styles of cufflinks today! 

Check out our other guides:

• What are Cufflinks? 
• How to Wear Cufflinks
• How do Cufflinks Work?