Ask Robin: Are Cuff Links Pretentious?

QUESTION:  I really want to start wearing cuff links but some people think they are “pretentious,” what’s a good way to start and not look too full of it?

ANSWER:  “Pretentious” as in looking like an ass?  I can understand the concern so the best way to introduce cuff links into your wardrobe is to either baby step it or go bold.

You can baby step it by wearing small nondescript twists or balls.  You  know… the “boring but there” ones that sometimes come with the shirt. Start here and get use to them  OR go bold.

The best way to go bold with cuff links is to find a pair that either represents an interest or a hobby.  For example, if your hobby is music, wear a pair of cuff links that say that.  One of my clients is a doctor whose hobby is making stained glass murals. So, of course, I selected cuff links that looked like stained glass. He didn’t feel pretentious at all. As a matter of fact his cuff links turned out to be  a great conversation starter.

Bottom line, go for it.  If you have second thoughts, call me and I’ll pump you up. You can do this without looking like an asshole.