Chain vs. T Cufflinks

[waltwhitman]

I want to buy my friend cufflinks as a gift.

The pair I chose has two varieties - one that is two sided, with an multicoloured oval on one side and another design on the other side that are linked with a small chain, and one that has a design on only one side with a rigid T type cuff-linking mechanism. I personally think the two sided, chain linked one looks nicer, but I was concerned that because the chain is longer than the T, that it wouldn't make the cuff tight enough when inserted, and would just flop around. Is this a valid concern? Can anyone here with experience with chain cufflinks shed some insight on this quandary?

 

[Calder]

I prefer the chain linked style of cufflink, although the bar style is much more readily available. I would like to see a link...

However, unless the chain is exceptionally long you are worrying needlessly. The chain has to be slightly longer than the bar style typically used just to get the head of the cufflink through.

 

[waltwhitman]

So the ovals won't flop around?

 

[Ianiceman]



So the ovals won't flop around?

Nah. You'll probably find that the robustness of the double folded cuff will hold it all in place.

Chained links are probably more formal and traditional, plus as you noted have the added attraction of providing interest on both sides of the cuff. You will probably also find that they are more rare, more expensive and a hell of a lot more fiddly to put on. Finally, you will usually find that the display side is smaller than T-back links as it has to fit through a button hole, so T-backs allow for a larger/more flashy display if that's what you want. The only chains I have are black for my dinner suit (Kent Wang) and some blue lapis ones.

 

[RDiaz]

I prefer T-backs. Cufflinks with a chain look a whole lot nicer and you shouldn't worry about them being loose. It's just that I can't stand the hassle it is to put them on