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We know you like to get every detail just so, right down to your shirt cuffs. As well as bringing a touch of distinction to your look, the perfect cuff tallies with the formality of your shirt and the occasion. Not sure which to choose? Take the advice of a shirtmaker. Read on to discover the difference between the two main types of cuff and when to wear each one. We’ve got you. What’s the difference between a single and double-cuff shirt? There’s a subtle difference between single vs double-cuff shirts. Let’s put it this way: a single-cuff shirt is what you'll find in most everyday wardrobes, and the double cuff, aka French cuff, is for formal occasions. Let’s take a closer look.
The single cuff shirt is our most popular formal design, thanks to its versatility. It comes in two variations – rounded twin and mitred twin – and best of all, both will take you effortlessly from business meetings to formal events. Can you wear cufflinks with a single cuff shirt? It already comes with a button (or two), so no. If you want to don your favourite cufflinks, you'll need our French cuff shirts.
The name 'double cuff' describes the cuff's construction – it's double the length of its single counterpart and folds back on itself to be secured with a cufflink. This gives your shirt a crisp, immaculate look that's perfect when you want to raise your sartorial game.If you've ever wondered 'what is a French cuff shirt?', it's just another term for a double cuff, possibly named after the shirts worn by Napoleonic soldiers, who presumably liked to look suave for battle. Double cuffs are available on all of our formal shirts.
At Charles Tyrwhitt, you'll find informal shirts that still have those sharply tailored cuffs. Our long-sleeved casual shirts have a twin-button fastening and a discreet gauntlet button. This small button sits between the cuff and the end of the cuff opening – a dapper detail that keeps the opening neatly closed. Choose from two types of casual single cuff.
What makes a shirt 'smart casual'? Maybe a statement check or a print and a denser weave, perhaps a button-down collar, and always single cuffs. While a more formal single-cuffed shirt typically has twin buttons, a more relaxed smart-casual design tends to have only one.
Perhaps you’re looking for more specific details on when to wear a single vs double-cuff shirt. It’s actually pretty easy to choose when you get the hang of it.
For black tie occasions, the double cuff is non-negotiable. You may get away with a single-cuff shirt at most other kinds of events, but absolutely not if it’s black tie. A black tie could be a gala, red carpet, awards evening, formal wedding, or business event.
The clue is in the name here - casual. Even if your company dress code is essentially suit and tie, you can get away with a single-cuff shirt on casual Friday at work.
If you’re invited to a wedding, your dress code depends on what the invite says. That said, weddings are still special occasions. So, unless it’s a beachy, destination, or another form of casual event, you’re best off wearing a double-cuff shirt. The double cuff will elevate your look and show respect for the bride and groom. Double cuff is pretty much a given if you’re the groom, best man, or groomsman!
You’ll most likely be in a full suit for important business gatherings like presentations, pitches, board meetings, and other similar occasions. So, double-cuff is best for these kinds of events. Add accessories like a belt, cufflinks, and a tie bar to add some extra sophistication to your look (but be careful not to overdo it).
Consider it’s your friend’s birthday, and a dinner’s booked at a swanky restaurant. You may be on the fence about which kind of shirt to wear. You can usually opt for a single cuff. Add a jacket or blazer if it’s a smart-ish venue. If the place is seriously upscale, like a Michelin-star establishment, then the double or French cuff is a better choice.
Though there's just a glimpse of sleeve emerging from under your jacket (half an inch to an inch is ideal), a formal outfit still requires impeccable cuffs. You have two main choices – the traditional double cuff or the versatile single cuff.
