When it comes to men’s formalwear, few details make a statement quite like cufflinks. These small yet powerful accessories bring elegance and individuality to your outfit. But not every shirt can accommodate cufflinks—you need a double cuff shirt, also known as a French cuff shirt. In this guide, we’ll explain what makes these shirts special and why they’re the ultimate choice for showcasing your cufflinks.
What Is a Double Cuff Shirt?
A double cuff shirt is a dress shirt designed with extra-long cuffs that fold back on themselves and fasten with cufflinks instead of buttons. This style originated in the early 19th century and quickly became a hallmark of refined tailoring.
Unlike standard barrel cuffs that close with sewn-on buttons, double cuffs require an external fastening mechanism—cufflinks—making them a staple in black-tie and white-tie dress codes.
Why Double Cuffs Are Perfect for Cufflinks
Double cuffs serve as the ideal canvas for cufflinks for a few key reasons:
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More Space, More Style
The doubled-over fabric creates a thicker, more structured cuff, ensuring your cufflinks sit neatly and remain visible. -
A Touch of Formality
Cufflinks themselves are a symbol of sophistication. Pairing them with a French cuff shirt reinforces that elevated look. -
Room for Creativity
From classic silver knots to quirky novelty designs, cufflinks let you express personality without breaking dress code etiquette.
When to Wear a Double Cuff Shirt
While traditionally reserved for formal events like weddings, galas, and black-tie dinners, French cuff shirts have found their way into modern business attire. Here’s when to wear them:
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Black Tie & White Tie Events – Non-negotiable; they’re part of the code.
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Business Formal Meetings – A subtle way to stand out.
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Special Occasions – Think anniversaries, milestone birthdays, or holiday parties.
Styling Tips for Double Cuff Shirts
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Keep the Fit Sharp – French cuff shirts look best with tailored suits.
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Choose the Right Links – Match the metal to your watch and belt buckle for a cohesive look.
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Experiment with Colours – White is classic, but pastel or light blue shirts also pair well with elegant cufflinks.
Final Thoughts
Double cuff shirts are more than just a style choice—they’re an invitation to personalise your outfit and elevate your formal look. With the right cufflinks, they transform from a simple shirt to a powerful expression of elegance and personality.
