Why Are Cartier Glasses Called Buffs?

Cartier glasses are called "Buffs" because they are made from buffalo horn, and the nickname originated in Detroit, where these frames became a powerful status symbol embedded in the city's culture. 

Over the years, the term has expanded to include various Cartier styles, but its roots remain tied to the iconic buffalo horn material and its deep connection to Detroit street fashion and success.

How the Name "Buffs" Came to Be

The name "Buffs" comes directly from the use of buffalo horn in Cartier’s luxury eyewear. Buffalo horn is a prized, natural material sourced from Asia and South America, known for its lightweight feel, durability, and unique grain patterns. Cartier’s craftsmen layer the horn for added strength, and because it’s left unvarnished, it can be polished over time to maintain its natural luster. The organic character of buffalo horn means no two pairs are exactly alike, contributing to the exclusivity and appeal of each frame.

The most iconic and sought-after model is the C Décor White Buffalo Horn, commonly referred to as White Buffs. These glasses feature a brilliant, pale hue that highlights the rarest variation of buffalo horn, making them a collector’s item and a visual representation of luxury.

The nickname "Buffs" was born in Detroit, where Cartier glasses quickly became a cultural staple and a fashion essential among the city’s movers and tastemakers. In Detroit, Buffs came to symbolize not just style, but success, respect, and achievement. Hip-hop artists, athletes, and entrepreneurs helped elevate the Buffs from eyewear to icon status. Local rap lyrics, social media posts, and even news stories frequently reference Buffs, embedding them deeply in the city’s cultural identity.

Historical Context

Cartier started producing eyewear in the early 1980s, originally crafting frames with precious metals and wood. The use of buffalo horn introduced a new level of natural luxury and instantly differentiated Buffs from other high-end glasses. Their release was a turning point in luxury eyewear, merging Cartier’s jewelry-making pedigree with fashion-forward optical design.

By the late 1980s and 1990s, Buffs had become a sensation in Detroit. Unlike other luxury items, Cartier Buffs weren’t about logos or flashy branding. They were about the material, the craftsmanship, and what they represented to those who wore them. In a city defined by hustle and resilience, Buffs became a visual shorthand for "I made it."

The phrase "the whiter the Buffs, the more coveted the frames" reflects the allure of white buffalo horn models, which are the rarest and most expensive due to their scarcity in nature. They became the ultimate flex, appearing in music videos, album covers, and Instagram feeds. For many, Buffs aren't just sunglasses; they’re part of the uniform of success.

Expanding the Meaning

While the term "Buffs" originally referred specifically to buffalo horn Cartier glasses, over time, the meaning has broadened. Today, many people use the word "Buffs" to refer to any Cartier eyewear, regardless of the material. That said, true Buff connoisseurs still reserve the name for buffalo horn models and especially for the White Buffs that first sparked the trend.

This evolution of the term mirrors the brand’s growth and the way luxury street fashion can redefine language and symbols. What started as a regional nickname has turned into a universally recognized term in the world of luxury eyewear.

Craftsmanship Behind Buffs

Every pair of authentic Cartier Buffs is handcrafted, often taking weeks or months to complete. The buffalo horn is carefully selected, cut, laminated, and polished to highlight its unique texture. The temples are typically made from horn, while the bridge and hardware may feature 18k gold, platinum, or titanium detailing. Limited edition models may include diamonds, onyx, or ruthenium accents.

Unlike mass-produced designer glasses, Buffs are assembled using traditional artisanal techniques, ensuring the highest standards of durability, comfort, and luxury. The precise alignment, hand-finished surfaces, and subtle branding are all hallmarks of Cartier's design ethos.

Cultural Impact in Detroit and Beyond

The cultural footprint of Buffs is strongest in Detroit, where they are often seen at concerts, clubs, sporting events, and even proms and weddings. Entire songs have been written about Buffs, and fights have broken out over stolen pairs. Local businesses, influencers, and artists continue to pay homage to Buffs through fashion collections, murals, and digital content.

But Buffs have also made their way beyond Detroit. Celebrities like Big Sean, Kash Doll, and 42 Dugg have popularized them on a national level, and collectors worldwide now seek out rare and vintage models. Yet despite their global appeal, Buffs remain a uniquely Detroit phenomenon in both origin and attitude.

Summary

Cartier glasses are called "Buffs" because of their use of buffalo horn, and the nickname began in Detroit, where the frames became a powerful symbol of luxury, success, and local pride. Originally referring to horn-crafted models like the iconic White Buffs, the term has since grown to encompass a wide range of Cartier eyewear. Backed by handcrafted artistry, rare materials, and deep cultural resonance, Buffs are more than just glasses—they're a legacy.

Try our Cartier Virtual Try-On to see how iconic Cartier Buffalo Horn frames fit your face in real time and discover your perfect style.