The terms “bangles” and “cuff bracelets” are often used interchangeably. In this article, we’ll break down their key differences and fun similarities. Get ready for some serious trivia to impress at your next dinner party!

If you’re looking for the difference between a bangle and a bracelet, here’s the definition:

A bracelet is any piece of jewelry worn around the wrist. Bangles and cuffs are types of bracelets.

You’ll want a...

• bangle bracelet if you want a solid, loose-fit bracelet with a golden or silver metallic shine.
• leather cuff bracelet if you want a wide, soft, tight-fit bracelet with a matte leather texture.
• metal cuff bracelet if you want a solid, medium-fit bracelet with a golden or silver metallic shine.

A bangle bracelet is a solid, circular piece of jewelry that slides over your hand and rests on your wrist. Unlike flexible bracelets, it keeps its rigid, round shape. Traditionally, bangles don’t have a clasp, but some modern designs feature a hinge on one side and a closure on the other, allowing for a tighter fit and easier wear.

Made from materials like metal, wood, or plastic, bangles can be worn individually for a minimal look or stacked for a bold, stylish touch.

A leather cuff bracelet is a wide, sturdy band of leather worn around the wrist. Unlike traditional bracelets, it doesn’t have links or chains but instead wraps firmly around the wrist, often with snaps, buckles, or other closures for an adjustable fit. Some designs are simple and minimal, while others feature bold stitching, metal accents, or engravings.

Leather cuff bracelets have a rugged, masculine style and are mostly worn alone for a strong look.

A metal cuff bracelet is a solid, open-ended bracelet that wraps around the wrist, leaving a small gap for easy wear. Unlike flexible bracelets, it maintains a sturdy, rigid shape. Typically made from materials like stainless steel, silver, or gold, metal cuff bracelets can range from sleek and minimal to bold and decorative, with engravings, etchings, or stone accents.

They offer a strong, modern look and can be worn alone as a statement piece or stacked with other bracelets for a layered style.

Bangles are closed, rigid, and maintain their shape.

Metal cuffs are open, rigid, but can be bent for a tighter fit.

Leather cuffs are wide, closed, soft, and can offer wrist support if worn tightly.

Bangles are circular or oval.

Cuffs are C-shaped.

Bangle: Can be made of any rigid material, like wood, plastic, glass, metal.

Metal cuffs: Made of metals like stainless steel, brass, sterling silver, or gold.

Leather cuffs: Made of various grades and types of leather or faux leather.

Bangle: Oversized, loose-fit look for a sophisticated yet chill look.

Metal cuffs: Sleek and elegant. Minimalistic.

Leather cuffs: Rugged and natural. Rock ’n’ roll.

Bangle: Best worn solo and complements more formal dress styles.

Metal cuffs: Worn solo for minimalism, but thanks to their tight fit, they will also blend well in a stack.

Leather cuffs: Best worn solo. Their size will overwhelm anything close to them.

For a deep-dive into bracelet stacking, check out our stacking guide.

Bangle: Should fit loosely around the wrist, allowing for some movement, but not so loose that it slides off.

Metal Cuffs: Designed to fit snugly against the wrist. They should hug your skin comfortably without pinching, and their tighter fit ensures they stay in place, even if worn in a stack.

Leather Cuffs: Best worn with a close fit, but not too tight to restrict movement. The bulkier design means a snug fit gives it a secure feel, while still allowing some room for comfort.

Learn how to find the right size bracelet for you.

Bangle: Either solid build or hinged design with a spring lock.

Metal cuffs: Open slide-on design. No lock.

Leather cuffs: Snap button or buckle closure.

All bangles are bracelets, but not all bracelets are bangles. The term “bracelet” is a hyponym of both “bangle” and “cuff bracelet”. Every piece of jewelry worn around the wrist is “a bracelet.“ Metal straps on watches are often called “bracelets.”

The more difficult distinction to make is between bangles and cuffs, and metal cuffs and leather cuffs. Put simply, bangles are rigid and form a complete circle. Cuffs are open at one end, allowing you to slide them onto your wrist. Leather cuffs, on the other hand, are wide pieces of leather that wrap around your wrist, offering either added support or a rugged style.