Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Cufflinks

Cufflinks come in many different shapes, sizes, styles, and materials. Whether you're wearing a French cuff shirt that requires them, or simply want to elevate a standard shirt, the right pair of cufflinks makes an immediate impression.

Types of Cufflink Closure

Understanding how cufflinks work helps you choose the right style for you:

  • Toggle back — the most common type; a decorative face on a post with a toggle that pivots 90° to secure the cuff
  • Bullet back / whaleback — variations on the toggle, shaped like a bullet or whale's tail; easy to fasten one-handed
  • Chain link — two matching faces connected by a short chain; a classic, elegant style with Edwardian roots
  • Stud / button — no moving parts; a straight post with a smaller fixed head that slips through the cuff
  • Ball return — a curved post with a small weighted ball on the reverse; secure and refined
  • Locking dual-action — a hinge mechanism similar to a watch clasp; very secure and contemporary
  • Silk knot — two knotted heads connected by a short flexible length; a relaxed, colourful option for smart-casual occasions

Materials

Cufflinks are crafted from an impressive range of materials — gold, silver, platinum, rose gold, titanium, carbon fibre, gunmetal, copper, brass, and stainless steel. The decorative face may incorporate gemstones (diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds), or materials such as mother of pearl, enamel, crystal, onyx, and opal.

At Wimbledon Cufflink Company, we specialise in rich enamel designs on quality metal bases — delivering a premium, distinctive look at an accessible price point. Browse our gold cufflinks and silver cufflinks collections to find your style.

When and How to Wear Them

The occasion should guide your choice of design:

  • Black tie / formal events — opt for understated, classic designs in silver or gold. Simple geometric or plain metal styles work best.
  • Business — heritage or subtle enamel designs strike the right balance of personality and professionalism. Avoid anything too bold or novelty.
  • Smart casual — this is where you can have more fun. Explore our British heritage collection for designs with character and story.

One useful rule: if you're wearing a tie clip, match its metal tone to your cufflinks. And don't be afraid of contrast — a pair of deep blue enamel cufflinks against a grey suit is a quietly powerful combination.

Buying Cufflinks as a Gift

Cufflinks make an exceptional gift for any gentleman. A simple guide: check the metal tone of his watch. Gold watch — choose gold-tone cufflinks. Silver or steel watch — silver-tone cufflinks are the natural match.

For something truly personal, our bespoke cufflink service allows you to create a completely unique pair — engraved, custom-designed, and made to order. Explore our full cufflinks collection and find the perfect pair.

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