What is a "Statement" Cufflink and How to Pair Them With Business and Formal Wear (Without Looking Like You're Trying Too Hard)

Let’s be honest, for a long time, cufflinks were the accessory equivalent of that quiet kid in the back of the class—technically there, doing an important job, but never really getting the credit they deserved. We’d see them peeking out from a tuxedo sleeve at a wedding or flashing during an important boardroom handshake, and think, “Fancy buttons.” But oh, how times have changed! At Robinson’s Jewelers, we’ve watched these little guys stage a full-blown fashion revolution, transforming from mere functional fasteners into the ultimate power accessory. They’ve had a glow-up, and honey, they are here to party. And it’s not just the gents getting in on the action. We’re seeing more and more women snatching up Men’s Jewelry to add a touch of tailored rebellion to their blazers and crisp button-downs. So, whether you’re a cufflink connoisseur or someone who’s just realized they aren’t just for grandpa, let’s dive into the wonderful world of statement-making wrist candy.

The secret to a great outfit is all in the details, and a “statement” cufflink is the ultimate mic drop for your wrists. But what exactly makes a cufflink a “statement”? It’s not just about being big and flashy (though it can be!). A statement cufflink is any pair that goes beyond the simple, understated metal stud. It’s the one with personality, the conversation starter, the piece that says, “Yes, I spent more than five minutes getting dressed this morning, and I have impeccable taste.” Think bold gemstones, intricate enamel work, unique shapes, or even personalized engravings. They are the accessory that takes your outfit from “appropriate” to “unforgettable.” According to our friends over at Van Cleef & Arpels, a well-chosen cufflink is like a tiny piece of art, and we couldn’t agree more .

The Golden Rule: Start with the Right Shirt

Before you even think about picking out your shiny new treasures, you need the right canvas. You cannot, and I repeat, cannot wear cufflinks with a regular old button-cuff shirt. It would be like trying to put a racing tire on a tricycle. It just doesn’t work . You need a shirt with French cuffs, also known as double cuffs. These cuffs have extra length and buttonholes on both sides but no buttons. They are designed to be folded back and fastened with your cufflinks, creating a clean, elegant, and slightly more formal look . When you’re shopping for that perfect crisp white shirt or a soft pastel blue one to pair with your All Watches, make sure those cuffs are ready for their star accessory.

How to Pair Statement Cufflinks for Business

The boardroom is a delicate dance of power and polish. You want to project confidence and success without looking like you’re headed to the opera. This is where the art of the subtle statement comes into play.

• The “Quiet Luxury” Power Play: For high-stakes meetings, think texture and material over neon colors. A pair of Cuff Bracelets might be too much, but cufflinks in brushed gold or with a subtle geometric pattern add depth to your look without screaming for attention. Look for designs from brands like Roberto Coin or Chopard that feature intricate detailing or pave diamonds that catch the light just so when you gesture during a presentation . It’s elegant, it’s expensive-looking, and it says you mean business.
• The Pop of Color: Who says business has to be boring? If you’re in a creative field or just want to inject some personality into a standard navy suit, cufflinks with Onyx Jewelry - Bold Sophistication or deep blue enamel are your new best friends. They add a touch of color that coordinates with your tie or pocket square without being distracting . It’s a clever way to show you have a personality, even if you’re in a spreadsheet-filled meeting.
• The Personal Touch: Monogrammed cufflinks are the power move of someone who is confident in their own brand. Having your initials subtly displayed on your cuffs is a classic, timeless look that works for every professional setting . It’s personal, it’s polished, and it’s a great way to ensure you never accidentally leave them at a colleague’s desk.

How to Wear Statement Cufflinks for Formal Events

Weddings, galas, black-tie events—this is the moment your cufflinks have been waiting for. This is their time to shine, literally.

• The Groom’s Glory: For the groom, everything is about creating a memorable look. This is the perfect opportunity to go all out. Think Diamond Jewelry - Unmatched Brilliance in classic white gold or platinum. They’ll catch the light in every photo and add a layer of luxury to your tuxedo that a simple button just can’t match. Or, make it sentimental. Cufflinks engraved with your wedding date or a tiny charm that represents your love story are beautiful keepsakes you’ll treasure forever .
• Groomsmen Gifts with Style: If you’re looking for the perfect thank-you gift for your groomsmen, a pair of quality cufflinks is a no-brainer. Choose a style that complements the wedding’s aesthetic—maybe a classic silver or a design with a small, tasteful gemstone. It’s a gift they can wear on the big day and for years to come, always reminding them of your special bond. Check out our selection from Charles Krypell for designs that are both modern and timeless.
• For the Guests: You don’t have to be in the wedding party to enjoy the fun of formalwear. A pair of silk knot cufflinks adds a touch of classic elegance and a hint of texture to your tuxedo. Or, if you’re feeling bold, opt for a pair with a mother-of-pearl inlay or a small, precious gemstone like a sapphire or an emerald to pick up the colors in your date’s dress . It’s a subtle way to coordinate and look like a power couple.

The Unwritten Rules of Cufflink Styling

Okay, you’ve got the shirt, you’ve got the stunning cufflinks from our All Jewelry collection. Now, how do you put it all together without looking like you tried too hard?

• Metal Matching 101: This is the easiest rule to follow. Make sure the metal of your cufflinks matches the metal of your watch, your belt buckle, and even your tie bar if you’re wearing one. If your watch is stainless steel, opt for silver or white gold cufflinks. Wearing a rose gold Frederique Constant watch? Then rose gold cufflinks are your go-to . This creates a cohesive, polished look that screams “I know what I’m doing.”
• Balance is Everything: Your cufflinks are the star of your wrist show, so let them have the spotlight. If you’re wearing a bold, gemstone-encrusted pair, keep your other accessories simple. A sleek, minimalist watch and no other flashy rings will allow your cuffs to do all the talking .
• How to Put Them On (Without a YouTube Tutorial): Don’t panic, it’s easier than it looks. Fold your French cuff back so the two holes line up. Push the head of the cufflink through both holes from the inside of the cuff (the part against your skin) to the outside. Then, secure the backing (usually a swivel bar or a toggle). The decorative face should be facing outwards, ready to be admired . Pro tip: It’s much easier to put them on before you actually put your shirt on. Trust us on this one.

Care for Your Treasures

Your statement cufflinks are an investment in your personal style, so treat them like the treasures they are! When you’re not rocking them at the office or on the dance floor, store them in a dry place, preferably in a fabric-lined jewelry box or pouch to prevent scratching . Give them a gentle wipe with a soft cloth after wearing to remove any oils or fingerprints and keep them sparkling for their next big moment. For those truly special pieces from luxury houses like Bvlgari, a little TLC goes a long way.

So, there you have it. The humble cufflink has shed its shy reputation and stepped into the light as a bona fide style powerhouse. Whether you’re closing a deal, saying “I do,” or just heading out for a fancy dinner, the right pair of cufflinks is your secret weapon. They’re a small detail with a massive impact, a way to inject your personality into the most formal of outfits. And the best part? They’re fun! So, go ahead, explore our collections from designers like David Webb - Timeless Luxury and Oscar Heyman, and find the pair that speaks to you. Because in a world of ordinary, why not let your wrists do the talking?