Regardless of your level of expertise in menswear trends - or how difficult some people may make it appear - navigating etiquette can actually be quite simple. When buying a tie or bow tie, most retailers will also include the same colour pocket square; nevertheless, some people mistakenly believe that a pocket square's only purpose is to be used as a napkin.
What if I told you that adding a little extra colour, pattern, and a fancy fold to your pocket square is actually preferable to simply folding it and matching? The purpose of wearing a pocket square is to demonstrate your sense of fashion. Everyone will be complimenting your attire at the next event or at work! Don't just blend in with the crowd - pop out in style! We can help you out, just keep on reading.
REASONS TO WEAR POCKET SQUARES
Before you go out and buy or wear a pocket square, it's important to understand the difference between a pocket square and a handkerchief.
A pocket square is typically made of finer fabrics, like silk or wool. It serves no practical purpose other than to enhance your visual appearance and make you appear smarter and more stylish. For more practical applications, you will find a handkerchief better suited. It is typically made of standard cotton and is intended for more practical applications such as wiping sweat or blowing your nose.
Here are other reasons of why you should think of using a pocket square for your next outfit:
- A pocket square adds a nice hint of colour and more life to your suit, it instantly adds a touch of sophistication and elegance.
- Perfect complement to your tie or bow tie.
- Allows you to “dress up” or “dress down” an outfit. Giving your same suit a different look each day
- An inexpensive addition to your look that can refresh the same suit, over and over.
RULES ON HOW TO USE IT
One common question from men is whether you should match your tie and pocket square. The simple answer is no. Although it may appear to be a simple way to coordinate your outfit, matching your pocket square to your tie or bow tie is a "no-no". Although some stores sell matching ties and pocket square sets, we recommend avoiding them if you want to be seen as a stylish guy.
Below is a handy pocket square guide when choosing your pocket square:
- Choose a secondary colour from your tie/bow tie as the primary colour for your pocket square
- If your tie / bow tie is a solid colour, reach for a patterned pocket square. By adding more patterns, you'll add more interest to your outfit.
- If you are wearing a silk pocket square make sure it is at least 40cm x 40cm (16 inches). When using a pocket square made of a fine material, like silk, a square that is too small will get lost in your pocket. You can also opt for a pocket square holder to ensure it stays in place all day (or night) long.
- Pick a fold for the occasion! For instance, on casual occasions you can try a simpler fold, like ‘the president fold’. On more for formal occasions you'll want to choose a more elaborate fold, such as the ‘one or two point folds’. (See below all the types of folds)
QUALITY
The pocket square's quality makes a significant difference. There are some distinctions between high-quality and low-cost squares to look for. It's always best to find a good quality square, this will ensure it stands the test of time.
Mulberry silk is used to make the best ones. The print or colour is the same on both sides, and the edges should be perfectly rolled. The edge of the silk must be softly turned over with a handheld needle, and then small stitches are inserted approximately half to one centimeter apart around the edge, creating a supple yet prominent border. This plump border gives the square structure and allows for pointed folds.
Alternative square will be made of various materials, including mixed cotton. Most of the time, the printing is not crisp, and the colour does not bleed through to the opposite side, limiting how you can fold it in your pocket. You'll notice that the rolled edges are flat machine sewn hems which often ends up in an unstructured and unfinished look.
HOW TO FOLD POCKET SQUARE
Depending on where you are going, you'll want to pick the right fold for the occasion. Here are some of our favorite folds that you can try.
