What are surgeon cuffs? [and when to wear them] (2024)

What are surgeon cuffs on a men’s suit? Have you ever heard that term used before? Simply put, functioning buttons on a suit jacket sleeve are calledsurgeon’s cuffs. Sometimes we call them working button holes.

And like so many things in menswear (e.g. the ticket pocket), there’s some interesting history behind them.

In the early 19th century, military field surgeons were required to wear suit jackets. Amidst a battle, while treating wounded soldiers, the doctors would understandably stain their jackets. The ever practical tailors on Savile Row in London introduced functional buttons on the cuffs of a jacket’s sleeve, so that the doctors could roll their sleeves up when needed. Since then, surgeon cuffs have been synonymous with carefully crafted and high-end men’s suits.

What are surgeon cuffs? [and when to wear them] (1)

That’s the short answer, but let’s go a little deeper.

It’s important to understand that historically, the Savile Row neighborhood of London was inhabited largely by doctors. For reasons unknown (my research continues…) the neighborhood changed and tailors began to set up shop in the area. It wasn’t long until Savile Row became known as the suiting capital of the world, as it remains today. Relevant to our topic of working buttons holes, what happened during this transitional period in the neighborhood, was that the tailors started to build suits for the doctors with these functional buttons. Hence the namesake was born, the surgeon cuff.

And here’s something interesting about those cuff buttons: they mirror the pips, or decorative buttons, historically found on military uniforms to denote rank. There are some rumors that suggest that the buttons were originally sewn into uniforms to prevent cabin boys in the navy from wiping their noses on their jacket sleeves!

How should they be worn?

Now that you have a handle on the history, let’s talk a little about the style.

Surgeon cuffs are one of the most well known features of a high quality suit. They are truly a hallmark of custom suiting. In many of our suits, you’ll notice that we like to leave the last button unbuttoned. It’s a bit of a subtle sartorial nod to the heritage of men’s suiting. Also, we will often build our suits with a contrast thread color on the final button (or, sometimes all of the buttons!). But the takeaway is that relatively subtle bespoke details like surgeon cuffs are really just another way to let your personality shine through.

You may choose to take advantage of these features or you may not. It’s entirely up to you. Personally, I think that these working button holes are worth adding to a summer suit or seasonal sport coat because you can keep one or two buttons unbuttoned and help to ventilate your jacket a little bit more.

Finally, it’s important to remember that once the surgeon cuffs are sewn onto a jacket, the sleeve length should not be modified. If you were to change the length afterwards, then the whole proportion of the buttoned cuffs will be thrown off. Work with a skilled clothier and you’ll be in good hands.

What are surgeon cuffs? [and when to wear them] (2)

Wrap up: what are surgeon cuffs?

So, what are surgeon cuffs? They are simply the working sleeve button holes on a men’s suit or sport coat. There’s a strong history behind them and are frequently a sign of a quality suit.

And speaking of details, here’s our article on the ticket pocket, if you’d like to learn about another fun sartorial nod to the history!

What are surgeon cuffs? [and when to wear them] (2024)

FAQs

What are surgeon cuffs? [and when to wear them]? ›

Military surgeons would unbutton and roll up the sleeves of their uniforms to avoid staining them when attending to patients. It was adopted by tailors as a sign of high quality and craftsmanship, hence the name. Surgeon cuffs are considered a status symbol, as off-the-peg suit buttons are normally non-functional.

What are surgeon cuffs? ›

Have you ever heard that term used before? Simply put, functioning buttons on a suit jacket sleeve are called surgeon's cuffs. Sometimes we call them working button holes.

What does working cuffs mean? ›

Working Cuff (n,): a cuffs that has buttons that can unbutton allowing one to roll up the jacket sleeves. Historically, there was a time when men wore suits and sport coats everyday and for all occasions, even when delivering babies.

Why do cuffs have buttons? ›

In all cases the motivation behind the introduction of additional buttons would have been to prevent troops from using the sleeves to “clean themselves”, for example by wiping their nose, mouth, tears or wounds. , a habit that tended to spoil the appearance of uniforms and make troops not very presentable.

What are the buttons on suit sleeves for? ›

Most often, these buttons are going to be purely decorative. But, in some cases, they will actually function. This is what's referred to as a “surgeon's cuff,” which is to say a jacket cuff that has working buttons. So, are they just myth or truly magic?

Why do surgeons hold their hands above waist? ›

Surgical scrubbing is the removal of the germs and bacteria as possible from the bare hands and arms. After scrubbing, keep both hands above waist and below neckline. Keep them in view at all times. Scrubbed hands and arms are considered contaminated once they fall below waist level.

Why do surgeons wear things around their neck? ›

The collar has a blood-shielding, light-weight, multi-layered cloth. The outer layer of the multi-layered cloth is a soft, blood-repellent material. The innermost layer of material wicks moisture away from the wearer's neck.

What is the proper use of cuffs? ›

In most situations handcuffs should be applied with the hands behind the person's back. Handcuffs will be double-locked to prevent tightening, which may cause undue discomfort or injury to the hands or wrists.

What are the benefits of cuffs? ›

The cuff helps promote leading with the elbow and not the wrist. The cuff can also be placed higher on the forearm meaning its closer to the point of axis which will reducing the strain and pressure being put through the joint.

Should you roll your cuffs? ›

When it's very hot and stagnant, rolling up the sleeves lets air flow directly over more of your skin, and every little bit helps. While the appropriateness of rolled sleeves varies by workplace (see below), anytime you've got direct sunlight on your skin, rolled sleeves are acceptable.

Why are they called cuffs? ›

The term "cult" first appeared in English in 1617, derived from the French culte, meaning "worship" which in turn originated from the Latin word cultus meaning "care, cultivation, worship". The meaning "devotion to a person or thing" is from 1829.

How many types of cuffs are there? ›

There are generally three shapes for cuffs: rounded, squared, and mitered.

What does 3 buttons on a suit mean? ›

The three-button suit comes with a simple rule: "sometimes, always, never." It means you should sometimes fasten the top button (if you feel like it), always fasten the middle button, and never button the third.

Can I leave my suit jacket unbuttoned? ›

Buttoning Rules For Single-Breasted Suit Jackets:

These jackets should ALWAYS be buttoned when standing. Unbutton the jacket when sitting down, so that it doesn't crease. The traditional way to button a two-button jacket is to Always fasten the top button and leave the lower undone.

What is the rule for suit sleeves? ›

The sleeve of your suit jacket should rest just above the hinge where your hand meets your wrist. If all of your jackets are tailored to this point and your shirts fit properly, you'll always show the proper amount of shirt cuff, which should be between 1/4" - 1/2".

Do they remove your gown during surgery? ›

Yes, your gown will be removed during surgery. Its common practice to remove the dress during surgery because it can become contaminated with bodily fluids or other substances that could contaminate the surgical site.

What do surgeons do if they have to sneeze? ›

The accepted wisdom was that the surgeon should in fact sneeze facing the area being operated on—because the mask will redirect the ejecta and send it backward out of the sides of the mask, away from the open wound.

Why do surgeons wash their arms before surgery? ›

To reduce the number of bacteria present on the skin of those who are scrubbed for a surgical procedure, thus reducing the possibility of transmission of bacteria if a defect occurs in the sterile gown or gloves.

Why do they cover your face during surgery? ›

Using plastic adhesive drapes to protect the wound from organisms that may be present on the surrounding skin during surgery is one strategy used to prevent surgical site infection.

What do surgeons wear when not operating? ›

Originally known as 'surgical greens', they came to be called 'scrubs' because they are worn in a 'scrubbed' or sterile environment.

Why do surgeons wear black? ›

Black scrubs are considered to be a slimming color, so some nurses and doctors prefer to wear them. In general, black clothing tends to look slick and polished.

Why do cuffs have two buttons? ›

The additional button on the cuff is there to make the shirt a variable size; it allows the wearer to tighten or loosen the cuff.

Should cuffs be tight or loose? ›

The cuff should fit comfortably around your wrist but be tight enough that when buttoned it doesn't slide over your hand. A proper fitting cuff is just as important as proper sleeve length to insure that the sleeve comes to the right point on the hand.

What is the difference between French cuff and standard cuff? ›

Our most formal cuff, the French cuff is twice as long as regular cuffs and is folded back on itself and closed with cuff links. French cuffs have a very pronounced look and we usually pair them with our more debonair collar styles or formal shirts.

What do pink handcuffs mean? ›

Pink Handcuffs - These handcuffs have been used as a form of punishment for inmates who have violated rules.

What are the 3 types of handcuffing techniques? ›

Before you can handcuff a suspect, you must obtain control. Here are three techniques for when you're on your own (rear leg sweep), with a partner (rear takedown), or with a group of three or more officers (the swarm).

What are fluffy handcuffs used for? ›

SUITABLE FOR MANY OCCASIONS: These handcuffs are suitable for bachelorette parties, Halloween parties, costume parties, and other themed events. FINE MATERIAL: Made from fine quality material with a latch on each cuff to unlock it. NOVELTY USE: These handcuffs are for novelty use only.

What are extra long cuffs called? ›

French or Double types of Cuffs

French cuffs are twice as long as single cuffs. However, these two types of cuffs need cufflinks to close them at the wrist. This dressy cuff style is popular in England. Its name comes from the fact that it doubles back over itself.

When were cuffs popular? ›

In the 1950s, cuffing your jeans became a big trend when jeans started transitioning into the world of fashion. It wasn't just for practical reasons, it was something you did to add a touch of coolness to your look. And now, cuffs are in fashion once again.

What is the meaning of cuffs? ›

: something (such as a part of a sleeve or glove) encircling the wrist. 2. : the turned-back hem of a trouser leg.

Where should cuffs sit? ›

THE CUFFS. The cuffs should be cut close to the wrists, but not snug. You may want a little more room on your watch side so the cuff doesn't get tight or hung up (many bespoke shirts are made with a larger cuff on the watch side, for gents who wear large timepieces).

How high should cuffs be? ›

Cuffing rule #1: The cuff shouldn't sit higher than at the top of your shoes. Cuffing rule #2: The cuff should correspond with the fit of your jeans. That means loose fit jeans can have bigger cuffs while slim and skinny fit jeans should have more smaller cuffs.

What does it mean when a guy cuffs a girl? ›

"Cuffing" is a term based on the idea of getting "handcuffed" or tied down to one partner. It refers to when people get into relationships during the colder months of the year, even though they ordinarily wouldn't be interested in a commitment.

Why did they cancel cuffs? ›

On 17 December 2015, the day after the final episode, the BBC confirmed that the show had been cancelled after one series in order to "create space for new shows". The announcement was criticised by many of the actors and a petition was created in an attempt to encourage the BBC to create another series.

Are French cuffs still in style? ›

They're the standard choice these days for the Black Tie dress code and are also a staple of business wear. If you haven't guessed it yet, double cuffs are more commonly known as French cuffs.

What is the most formal cuff? ›

French cuff / Double cuff

The most formal cuff for a dress shirt. They require cufflinks which automatically portrays sophistication and influence. These cuffs are most suited for the most formal occasions and often the choice of cuff for the most traditional of men.

What is the difference between a French cuff and a double cuff? ›

As opposed to the single cuff, the French cuff is twice as long and doubles back over itself. This is why it's commonly referred to in England as the “double cuff.” However, the French cuff is similar to the single cuff as they both require cuff links to fasten.

What is the difference between double cuff and French cuff? ›

DOUBLE CUFFS

You'll sometimes hear these called French cuffs, which is essentially a dressed-up name for the same thing. They're designed to be worn folded in half and fastened with cufflinks. Wear them to weddings, black-tie dos and anywhere you want to look your smartest.

What is the collar that surgeons wear? ›

A cervical collar, also known as a neck brace, is a medical device used to support and immobilize a person's neck. It is also applied by emergency personnel to those who have had traumatic head or neck injuries, and can be used to treat chronic medical conditions. A side view of a person wearing a C spine collar.

What do surgeons wear on their neck? ›

Surgical caps

The surgical cap minimizes the risk of hair falling into the sterile area during surgery.

What is the thing surgeons wear on their head? ›

Surgical hats, also called as scrub caps or skull caps, are specially designed headwear for surgeons and the ancillary medical staff to be worn in operation theaters or in similar conditions. Invented first in the 1960s by a nurse, surgical hats were then made of cotton or polyester.

How long do you have to wear a cervical collar after surgery? ›

2) You will wear a cervical collar for at least 4 weeks post-operatively. This should be worn at all times (including in bed) but may be removed for showering. 3) About 3-4 days after surgery, you throat will become swollen. This usually lasts 1-2 days and you may want to sleep in a recliner for that time.

When should you wear a cervical collar? ›

A cervical collar is used to give support and limit movement of the neck. It is usually used after a moderate to severe neck sprain. It may also be used after spine surgery to reduce movement. Different types of collars have different purposes.

Why do surgeons wear vests during surgery? ›

Surgeon cooling systems are ideal for keeping medical professionals cool in the OR. A typical cooling system includes a cooling vest and a surgeon will wear this vest during procedures. The system delivers temperature controlled cooled water to the cooling vest (CoolVest).

What do pink cuffs mean? ›

Pink Handcuffs - These handcuffs have been used as a form of punishment for inmates who have violated rules.

Do they take your gown off during surgery? ›

Yes, your gown will be removed during surgery. Its common practice to remove the dress during surgery because it can become contaminated with bodily fluids or other substances that could contaminate the surgical site.

What do female surgeons wear? ›

Scrubs. Sometimes worn underneath white coats, scrubs are the uniform of choice for nurses and surgeons. These garments allow more movement and can be easily laundered when they get dirty. They are also relatively cheap so they can be replaced if and when they get stained.

Why do surgeons wear headlights? ›

The primary function of surgical lighting is to illuminate the operative site on and/or within a patient for ideal visualization by OR staff during a surgical procedure. With proper lighting, operating room staff can achieve a higher level of efficacy during surgery and reduce the risk of complications.

Why do surgeons wear shoe covers? ›

It offers protection by helping to prevent microorganisms from contaminating hands, eyes, clothing, hair and shoes; hence preventing transmission to other patients and staff.

Why do surgeons wear white? ›

White coats are worn chiefly for easy recognition by colleagues and patients, to put items in the pockets and to keep clothes clean. Psychiatrists and paediatricians try to maximize rapport with patients by deliberately not wearing white coats.

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