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Single Vs Double Cuff Shirts: The Tyrwhitt Guide
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.
SINGLE CUFF SHIRTS
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.
ROUNDED TWIN
- A two-button cuff with a gently rounded edge
- Available with classic or semi-cutaway collars
- A traditionally smart option, suitable for formal events or wearing with your business suit
MITRED TWIN
- A two-button single cuff, this time with an angled edge instead of the curved corner
- Available with cutaway and semi-cutaway collars that subtly echo the cuff's edge
- Smart, but more contemporary than the rounded edition
DOUBLE 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.
- The double cuff dress shirt is a go-to for formal occasions, from black tie events to weddings
- The folded-back construction delivers a crisp, elegant look
- Use cufflinks or a pair of silk knots to fasten them
do casual shirts have cuffs?
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.
CURVED ADJUSTABLE SINGLE CUFF
- A single cuff with a rounded edge
- Adjust the buttons to suit your wrist size
- Available with our classic and button-down collar shirts
- Choose this for a timeless, relaxed-casual look
MITRED ADJUSTABLE SINGLE CUFF
- The mitred edge creates a more modern feel
- Adjust the button for a perfect fit
- Opt for this shirt cuff design if you're aiming for a contemporary casual look
SMART-CASUAL SHIRTS
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.
- Single cuffs with timeless rounded corners
- Just one button for pared-back style
- An understated look that will work under a knit or a blazer
Choosing The Perfect Shirt Cuff For Any Occasion
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.
Brighton Blues
Packed with white blossoms and teal leaves, this print is inspired by the decorative motifs from the iconic Royal Pavilion in Brighton. Dress it down with blue pants for a casual look with a bit of flair.
Casual Friday
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.
Weddings
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!
Brighton Blues
Packed with white blossoms and teal leaves, this print is inspired by the decorative motifs from the iconic Royal Pavilion in Brighton. Dress it down with blue pants for a casual look with a bit of flair.
Brighton Blues
Packed with white blossoms and teal leaves, this print is inspired by the decorative motifs from the iconic Royal Pavilion in Brighton. Dress it down with blue pants for a casual look with a bit of flair.
DRESS SHIRTS
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 button cuff.
DRESS SHIRTS
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 button cuff.
