When dressing up for formal occasions, one might wonder whether to wear custom cuff links or buttons. Both serve the same purpose of fastening shirt cuffs, but custom cufflinks and buttons have distinct differences.
Interestingly, custom cuff links and buttons can be interchangeable as some shirts have buttonholes on the cuffs that accommodate cufflinks.
In this article, we will expound on the types and differences between custom cuff links and buttons, and their pros and cons to help you make more informed fashion choices and ensure that your outfit is appropriate for the occasion.
Cufflinks
Cufflinks symbolized status and wealth, dating back to at least 1500 BC. They were made of precious metals and adorned with gemstones or enamel.
In history and today, it allows men (and women) to dress up their shirts without worrying about buttons or zippers.
As time passed, custom cuff links became more affordable and accessible with various designs.
Types of Cufflinks
There are three main types of custom cuff links:
Bullet back
This is the most common type and the easiest to use. It has a small ball on the back that fits into a hole in your shirt sleeve.
Whaleback
It is similar to bullet backs but has an extra piece that slides over your buttonhole when you are not wearing them. This way, you do not have to worry about losing them while dressing up.
Chain link
It has a chain connecting its two pieces instead of being attached directly to each other. This type is more secure because there is no chance for one side to come loose from its mate if something catches onto it during movement.
Materials Used for Custom Cuff links
You can have custom cuff links in various types made from enamel or metal.
The classic favorite is custom enamel cufflinks. It has a polished finish with raised edges giving a textured feel making it perfect for crest logos.
Die-struck custom cuff links are your go-to if you want an elegant industrial look. This type has raised and recessed areas with polished and sandy textures.
Printed custom cuff links are also available, ideal for logos or crests that have tiny colored details and are multicolored with gradience and shading.
Lastly, you would want custom 3D cufflinks to show off depth and intricacy. This type has multiple surface levels and angles, either smooth or textured.
Buttons
Buttons have been around for centuries. Archaeologists have found buttons dating back to 4000 BC!
They were originally used for decoration and adornment, made of bone or shell.
Now, it is practically used for fastening clothing, usually made from plastic, metal such as brass, or wood.
Types of Button Attachments
There are many ways to attach buttons. The most common methods include:
Sew-Through Buttons
The most common type of button attachment is the sew-through button. As the name suggests, these buttons have two or four holes in the middle that allow them to be sewn onto the fabric. They are the most versatile type of button attachment and can be used on various garments.
Shank Buttons
Shank buttons are attached to the fabric using a small metal loop or shank on the back of the button. The shank creates a small gap between the button and the fabric, which allows the button to sit more comfortably on the garment. They are often used on thicker materials such as jackets and coats.
Stud Buttons
Stud buttons or snap buttons are composed of two parts that snap together. One part has a small protruding nipple, and the other has a small indentation that fits over the nipple. They are commonly used on items such as denim jackets and pants.
Flat Buttons
Flat buttons are a type of sew-through button that has a more streamlined appearance. Unlike other sew-through buttons, they have a flat top that sits flush with the fabric. They are often on dress shirts and blouses.
The different types of button attachments offer a range of options to suit differing fabrics, styles, and preferences. It may be a minor detail, but it can impact the overall appearance and functionality of the garment.
Materials Used for Buttons
Buttons are made from various materials. They are usually made from plastic but could also be made from metal, shell, and glass.
Plastic buttons are on clothing and accessories like purses or shoes.
Metal buttons are used for jackets and shirts because they are sturdy enough to withstand heavy use without breaking easily.
Shells are often used for decorative purposes since they come in many different colors and shapes; however, you should be careful when sewing them because they may crack if pressed too hard against the needle during the process.
Differences between Custom Cuff links and Buttons
Appearance and Style
| Custom Cufflinks | Buttons |
| Formal and sophisticated | Simple and practical |
| Come in a wide range of styles, materials, and designs. | Often made of plastic or metal and come in a limited range of colors and styles. |
| Can add a touch of elegance and personality to an outfit | Can be decorative |
| Often seen as a statement accessory. | Generally seen as more functional than fashionable. |
Functionality and Durability
| Custom Cufflinks | Buttons |
| Require a bit more effort to put on and take off. | Easier to use and more durable than custom cuff links |
| Less likely to come undone or slip out of the cuff | Withstand more wear and tear and are less likely to break or become damaged. |
| A popular choice for formal occasions | Sit flat against your skin without causing any discomfort. |
| Fragile and may require special care to maintain their appearance | Easier to replace if they do become damaged |
Price and Availability
| Custom Cufflinks | Buttons |
| More expensive, especially if made of high-quality materials such as gold, silver, or platinum | Widely available and generally inexpensive |
| Widely available at men’s accessory stores and online retailers | Available at most clothing stores and are often included in dress shirts |
Occasions and Dress Codes
|
Custom Cufflinks |
Buttons |
| Appropriate for more formal occasions, often required for dress codes that specify black tie or white tie attire | Appropriate for a wide range of occasions and dress codes, suitable for business and casual attire |
Custom cuff links and buttons can hold your clothes together and add a touch of style to your outfit. They can create a unique look, depending on your preference and the occasion.
Take some time to consider how often you wear formal clothing and what kind of personality traits reflect your style in choosing which one is right for you.
If we had to pick one over the other, custom cuff links get our vote every time! They are just so much more fun than buttons!
To get custom cuff links for yourself or as a gift, visit Custom Cufflinks Australia. We offer the highest quality made-to-order cufflinks with unlimited revisions and no setup costs!
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