The secret to a polished look isn't a new suit—it's mastering the details. Two small accessories, the lapel pin and the cufflink, have the power to transform your entire outfit, yet they often come with a few questions. Let's break down these sartorial stars.
The Lowdown on Lapel Pins
What are they called and what are they used for?
The lapel pin is a charming accessory worn on the lapel (the folded flap of fabric on a jacket or coat).
Lapel flowers (especially if they are actual fabric flowers)
Boutonnieres (a formal, single flower traditionally worn for weddings or black-tie events)
Badges or enamel pins (for more casual or novelty styles)
Their purpose is purely decorative and expressive. They add a pop of color, a hint of personality, or signify membership in a group or a cause.
The "Rules" of Wearing Lapel Pins
Is there a rule? Not a strict one, but there's a tradition!
Placement: They are traditionally worn on the left lapel, near the heart.
If your jacket has a small buttonhole on the lapel, that's where a boutonniere stem would feed through. The Big Rule: There are no official style police. While a simple metallic pin is subtle for the office, a fun novelty pin or a colorful flower can be perfect for a casual outing or a creative event. The key is to make it your own!
When to wear them: They're associated with formal occasions like weddings, black-tie events, and professional settings where you want to signal sophistication.
Is there a rule? The main rule is to coordinate the metal of your cufflinks with other metal accessories you're wearing, such as your watch, belt buckle, or tie bar. For example, if you're wearing a silver-toned watch, go for silver or white gold cufflinks.
Cufflinks: The Finish to Your Formal Look
What are they and what are they used for?
Cufflinks are a type of decorative jewelry used to secure the cuffs of a dress shirt, performing the job that a regular button would.
When and how to use them?
You wear cufflinks when you wear a shirt with French cuffs (also called double cuffs).
Cufflinks are not just functional; they're the ultimate finishing touch, a small glimpse of detail that completes an elegant ensemble.
