Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (2024)

Posted by Esther Meir

Find me on:

Arm cuffs are once again making a huge fashion comeback, wrapping the arms of runway models, Hollywood celebrities, and neighborhood fashionistas.

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (1)

But, as we’ve seen time and time again, just because people are wearing it, doesn’t mean it actually looks good (*cough cough* unicorn everything- where did that trend even come from??).

So, the big question: should you actually be wearing arm cuffs?

Spoiler alert: we say YES.

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (2)

A Bit of History

The arm cuff, also known as an armlet (isn’t that cute?) dates back to ancient times, representing strength and courage. The cuff is typically made with an open back so it can easily slip over the wrist and onto the upper arm. It is usually crafted from rigid material, allowing the jewelry band to snuggly hug the arm and not fall down.

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (3)


Throughout history, the arm cuff has appeared in many different cultural contexts. AncientEgyptians wore arm cuffs in pairs,adorning them with precious stones and hieroglyphics. Egyptian queens, Nefertiti and Cleopatra, are often depicted wearing pairs of thick goldarm cuffs.

In ancient Greece, Greek soldiers would wear leather and/ormetal arm cuffs as part of their ‘battle armor’ for both style and protection. This form was later incorporated into the uniform design for Roman soldiers (classic Romans).

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (4)


In Mayan culture, arm cuffs were used to signify socialclass and family rank.

Arm cuffs were essential to the attire of Mayan kings and royalty.

In China, arm cuffs would be worn to ward off evil and bad luck. They were most commonly made of gold and jade.

The arm cuff trend can also be traced back to Incan fashion.

And in Recent Times…

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (5)We’ve got Wonder Woman in first place, sporting her famous “Bracelets of Submission” and warrior armband (don’t mess).

Disney’s Jasmine in a close second with her delicate golden snake-styled arm band (but only with her red dress).

In third place, we have Game of Throne’s Khaleesi, mother of dragons, wearing a thick silver band.

And last but not least, we have Pocahontas! Okay, so she may not have an actual arm cuff, but she’s got a tattoo of one, which is pretty cool in our book.

Although originally worn by both men and woman, the arm cuff has become a symbol for strong iconic women, both fictional and real. The arm cuff gives its wearers and viewers a sense of confidence and power.

Seriously, you can’t help but feel awesome while wearing one (or multiple ones).

Which is why it’s no wonder that so many modern female leaders choose to wear arm cuffs.

Coco Chanelwent so far as to design her own arm cuffs, perfectly matching her class and confidence. Diana Vreeland,editor and chief of Vogue Magazine, loved wearing statement arm cuffs, and was often photographed with them.

Now, in celebrity fashion, we’ve got Keira Knightly, Rihanna, and Sienna Miller all accessorizing with beautiful, eye catching arm cuffs. Not to mention Vogue models and other fashion gurus wearing them to complete their chic and classy outfits.

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (6)

Arm cuffs add a sense of vitality and determination to any outfit. And these women know it.

So, yes, you should be wearing arm cuffs and yes, they look awesome.

How to Wear an Arm Cuff

Whether you go sleek and elegant, or bold and daring, arm cuffs are a must have for every woman this year. Wear them stacked, paired, or single with almost any style. Accessorize with thin, delicate arm cuffs for a look of elegance and charm. Or try thicker, chunkier bands for a wild and sharp effect.

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (7)

Arm cuffs really show off the arm, making it look slim and toned (even if you’re not a regular gym goer). For summer, arm cuffs look great with pretty much any sleeve length, even off the shoulder if you match it right.

Just be careful of paring loose arm fabric with arm cuffs that have chains - having so much going on takes away from a fresh and airy summer feel. You still want your arms to breath a little.

Not to mention, that the cuff chains can get caught on the sleeve fabric. And everyone knows how frustrating it can be to detach jewelry from clothing.

Try: gold winding bands and silver asymetrical styles for some summer fun


For more wintery styles, wear lower arm cuffs over gloves or sleeves for a boost of confidence and glam. Its best to use thicker and wider bands for this so the jewelry has a chance to stand out against the fabric.

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (8)

Consider: arm cuffs with sizeable gems for a nice splash of color and contrast during the darker winter days

Just be sure to get the right size when you're shopping for cuffs. Cuffs that are too smallwill make your skin bulge around the band in an unflattering manner, while cuffs that are too big will simply fall off. No need for either.

So, my fashionistas, get going with those arm cuffs for a fun and flashy new look.

Also Read:

Secrets of the Diamond District

9 Jewelry Blogs You Should Be Following

How Gold Buyers Decide on A Price | Selling gold Jewelry

Mrket/ Project Trade Show Standout Ment's Watch Brands

Quiz! Which Precious Stone Are You?

Topics: Gold, Jewelry, Silver, Colored Gems

August 03, 2017

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? (2024)

FAQs

Arm Cuffs: Yay or Nay? ›

So, yes, you should be wearing arm cuffs and yes, they look awesome. Whether you go sleek and elegant, or bold and daring, arm cuffs are a must have for every woman this year. Wear them stacked, paired, or single with almost any style. Accessorize with thin, delicate arm cuffs for a look of elegance and charm.

Are arm cuffs in style? ›

If you're ready to make a major flex in 2022, check out the return of the bicep bracelet. This bold piece of jewelry evokes thoughts of the early 2000s, just like so many other trends this year. In a sea of Y2K references right now, the bicep bracelet stands out.

What do arm cuffs symbolize? ›

Superheroes aside, the cuff has been considered a real-life symbol of power and prestige for thousands of years and features in ancient Egyptian, Mayan, Incan, Native American and Chinese history.

What is the spiritual meaning of the arm cuff? ›

In Greek mythology, arm cuffs were seen as protective talismans, believed to ward off evil spirits. Today, arm cuffs have taken on new meanings and interpretations. They are often worn as fashion statements, symbolising strength, individuality, and self-expression.

What is the significance of cuff bracelets? ›

Cuff bracelets are also sometimes associated with certain cultural or historical references. In some Native American cultures, cuff bracelets symbolize strength, power, and protection. In other cases, the meaning of cuff bracelet may be about membership in a specific group or organization or slavery.

Are cuffs in or out? ›

Cuffs come in and out of fashion. But, they are a permanent fixture of classic men's style when worn properly. They show the wearer has literally gone the extra inch to stand out. Cuffs come at a cost but add a whole new dimension to what would otherwise be standard slacks.

Who can wear arm cuffs? ›

Although originally worn by both men and woman, the arm cuff has become a symbol for strong iconic women, both fictional and real.

What culture are arm cuffs from? ›

In ancient times, armlets — bracelets made to sit between the elbow and the armpit — were worn by Egyptian rulers, Roman soldiers, Greek brides, Assyrian deities, and men and women throughout China, Greece, India, South America and the Celtic world.

Why do men wear wrist cuffs? ›

Our ancestors wore them as a symbol of power or as a tradition. Not only men, but women in the history also wore bracelets around their wrists for different reasons. In the modern world, major reason men wear bracelet is intricate details to an outfit.

What is the history of arm cuffs? ›

Although cuff bracelets seem like a newer trend, they've been around for 7,000 years. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Mayans, Chinese, and Romans wore cuffs as status markers and talismans of protection. Ancient bracelets were made of metal or leather and adorned with etchings, mythical creatures, or gemstones.

What do arms symbolize in the Bible? ›

The arm denotes influence, power, means of support or conquest. The arms of Moab (Jeremiah 48:25) and of Pharaoh (Ezekiel 30:21) are broken. The arm of Eli and the arm of his father's house are to be cut off (1 Samuel 2:31). Because the arm wielded the sword it signified "oppression" (Job 35:9).

Where do you wear a cuff bracelet? ›

Unlike bangles (closed circles) cuff bracelets are worn low on the wrist bone rather than pushed up the forearm. Hold the cuff in your opposite hand with the opening facing out. Gently roll the bracelet over the wrist from the thumb side or inside of your wrist just above the wrist bone.

What does wearing bracelets on your left arm mean? ›

The left side represents healing, self-love, nurturing, and receiving. The right side represents action, control, power, and giving. So if your intention is to receive energy, you would wear your bracelet on your left wrist. If you want to give energy, you would wear on your right wrist.

What is the history of cuff bracelets? ›

The history of the cuff bracelet dates back over 7,000 years. It was first seen in ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Mayans and Incans. It was also a popular piece for the Greeks and Chinese. In Mayan culture, jewelry was a significant part of the royal attire and acted as a key measure of social class.

Should cuff bracelet be tight or loose? ›

Typically, cuffs fit snugly around your wrist, right next to your wrist bone. That's actually how they got their name - because they're supposed to fit like shirt cuffs.

Do men still wear cuffs? ›

Men who are tall and lanky look better in cuffed dress pants. Shorter men should stay away from cuffs unless they are wearing pleated pants. No-cuff pants elongate the legs, giving the illusion of a taller and leaner frame. If you prefer no-cuff pants, do not buy cuffed pants and have a tailor take them out.

Is cuffing in style? ›

Over the past couple seasons, it has become increasingly clear to me while scrolling Instagram that a new denim trend is about to emerge. Cuffed jeans are starting to pop up everywhere from the latest street style to my favorite fashion follows on social media, and I couldn't be happier.

When were cuff bracelets popular? ›

Modern times: Wider cuff bracelets grew popular in the 1970s. Famous jewelry makers created cuff bracelets that are still famous today, and movies like Wonder Woman even featured cuff bracelets as part of her costume.

Is bracelet stacking still in style? ›

Layer on your favorite arm candy, from dainty diamond bracelets to classic silver cable bracelets and more, a stylish stack. The stacked bracelet style is trendy, timeless, and attainable for any jewelry lover. With different colors, metals, shapes, and styles, there are endless possibilities for stacking bracelets.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Neely Ledner

Last Updated:

Views: 5722

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (62 voted)

Reviews: 93% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Neely Ledner

Birthday: 1998-06-09

Address: 443 Barrows Terrace, New Jodyberg, CO 57462-5329

Phone: +2433516856029

Job: Central Legal Facilitator

Hobby: Backpacking, Jogging, Magic, Driving, Macrame, Embroidery, Foraging

Introduction: My name is Neely Ledner, I am a bright, determined, beautiful, adventurous, adventurous, spotless, calm person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.