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What You Need to Know About Wearing French Cuffs

French cuffs are a bold and attractive addition to anyone’s wardrobe, and they suit just about any occasion. However, for many guys, French cuffs dress shirts are a bit of a mystery as to when and how to wear them. If that’s you, rest assured this fashion statement is one of the easiest parts of your wardrobe to manage, once you understand the basics. Below you’ll discover the essential elements to incorporating French cuffs into your attire more often.

1. There’s Rarely a Bad Time to Wear French Cuffs

As a general rule, you should wear French cuffs anytime you feel like sprucing up an outfit. Many people think of French cuffs as something you wear with a tuxedo at a black-tie event or something comparably formal - not so. A button-up shirt with French cuffs, a tie and a pair of slacks combine for an incredibly versatile ensemble that will keep you looking sharp from the office to happy hour after work. By all means, wear French cuffs under a suit jacket, but keep in mind you can also wear them under a sweater or a blazer as long as there is enough wrist space to accommodate the extra fabric from the cuffs.

2. The Right Pair of Links Go a Long Way

When it comes to cuff links, there are a vast variety of styles, materials and prices. It’s definitely worth the effort to browse your options and choose links that reflect your personality and suit the occasion for which you will wear them. Some attire experts even recommend choosing a cufflink style in relation to your role in your company, from intern to boss man. Generally, metals like gold, silver or platinum tend to complement a more formal look, while colorful or fabric-based links tend to be more casual and expressive. Since it’s likely you’ll wear links for multiple occasions, you would benefit from building a collection so you can always select just the right pair.

3. They’re Surprisingly Easy to Put On

If you’ve already purchased your shirt and links, you’re through the hardest part. Putting on French cuffs is a simple process and allows plenty of room for creativity, if you want. For a traditional look, fold the cuff back over itself, and thread the cufflink through the two holes from the topside of the cuff. Then, wrap the full cuff around your wrist, push the cufflink through the remaining two layers of fabric, and secure the link. With your arms at your sides, the tops of the links should face forward. There are a few alternative ways to fold and button your cuffs, and you can even wear them unbuttoned if you desire. Even so, it’s really that easy if you want to wear French cuffs the traditional way.

Despite how seldom you may see people wear them, French cuffs make for an easy addition to your wardrobe and they go far in enhancing your look. For more help on wearing dress shirts with style, check out our expert advice on dress shirt details.