French cuffs are a stylized feature of men’s dress shirts where the end of the shirtsleeve at the cuff is folded back on itself. There are holds on both sides and the cuff is closed in what is called ‘kissing’ style, where the inner sides are pressed together and fastened with a cuff link.
There is some debate over the origins of French cuffs. Some say they first appeared in Britain as early as the 1600s and were likely known as the foldback, turnback or double cuff. Other reports suggested that they developed as sartorial innovations during the Renaissance period and were popularized by the French nobility during the 19th century.
Whatever the historical truth, the French cuff has come to represent the epitome of elegance and style. French cuffs are usually seen in formal black tie and white tie wear but have become more common in business wear, especially in current UK and European fashion.
There are three types of French cuffs: square (straight), rounded or angular. The choice is really a matter of preference and style. Try pairing Knot Standard’s Carbon Fiber cufflinks with your favorite white French cuff shirt for a refined looked.
The four buttons on a French cuff can be tricky for first timers. Fold the cuff back and then work the cufflink from the outside of your wrist in through the four holes. This will place the face (front) of the cufflink facing outward on the correct side of the cuff.