Men's shirt cuff guide
Men's shirt cuffs: button cuffs, French cuffs and proportions
Cuffs, like the collar, influence the formality and finish of a shirt. Their height, shape and closure determine whether they suit everyday business clothing or more formal outfits with cufflinks.
The two main cuff families
Button cuff
A single cuff closed with one or more buttons. It is practical, compact and suitable for most business, smart-casual and everyday shirts.
French or double cuff
A longer cuff folded back and closed with cufflinks. It is associated with formal dressing, ceremonies and occasions where accessories are part of the outfit.
Height and construction
Traditional double cuffs use more fabric and are therefore taller before they are folded. Button cuffs are generally more compact. Both types normally include a sleeve placket, the opening that allows the hand to pass through and makes it easier to roll the sleeves when appropriate.
Exact dimensions vary between models and brands. Product photographs and descriptions provide a more reliable reference than the cuff name alone.
Cuff shapes
Straight cuff
A clean, geometric edge that gives the sleeve a precise and understated finish.
Rounded cuff
Softened corners create a more relaxed appearance while remaining suitable for business wear.
Angled cuff
Cut corners add a sharper visual detail and can make the closure more noticeable.
Choosing cufflinks
Cufflinks pass through the aligned openings of a French cuff and replace the standard button closure. Their metal, colour and size should be compatible with the watch, belt hardware and level of formality of the outfit.
A formal shirt and dinner jacket call for a discreet, coherent accessory. More decorative cufflinks can work when the occasion and the rest of the clothing support them.
How much cuff should show below a jacket?
A useful visual reference is for the shirt cuff to extend slightly beyond the jacket sleeve. Around one centimetre is often cited as a balanced proportion, but the correct result also depends on arm length, jacket sleeve length and the construction of both garments.
The cuff should be visible without appearing as though the jacket sleeve is too short.
How a cuff should fit
- It should pass comfortably over the wrist without sliding far onto the hand.
- The closure should not press against a watch or create strong folds.
- The sleeve should retain enough length when the arm bends.
- The placket and buttons should lie flat and remain securely attached.
- Both cuffs should sit at the same height when the arms are relaxed.
Frequently asked questions
Are French cuffs only for black tie?
No. They can also be worn with formal business clothing and ceremonial outfits, but they are more formal than standard button cuffs.
Can cufflinks be used with every shirt?
No. The cuff must be constructed with the correct openings and without relying on a standard button closure.
Should a shirt cuff always show below a jacket?
A small visible section generally creates a balanced result, but the exact amount depends on the proportions of the shirt and jacket.
Choose cuffs that match the occasion
Use button cuffs for versatility and French cuffs when the outfit calls for a more formal closure and cufflinks.
Extra DISCOUNT 10% OFF
Use code: SUMMER26 - minimum purchase 99 EUR
Use code: SUMMER26
minimum purchase 99 EUR
Login and Registration Form