Want to take your suit game to the next level? A pocket square is the perfect accessory to add style and sophistication to your outfit effortlessly.
This guide reveals everything you need to know about pocket squares, from choosing the right one for your suit to mastering folds that suit any occasion. Whether you’re dressing for a wedding, a business meeting, or a casual event, you’ll discover how this small detail can make a big impact.
Imagine stepping into any event with confidence, knowing your look is polished and unique. By mastering the art of wearing a suit handkerchief, you can stand out for all the right reasons.
Dive into this article to learn the rules, styles, and expert tips for wearing a pocket square like a pro. It’s time to elevate your suit style!
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- What Is a Suit Handkerchief? Understand the purpose of this stylish accessory and how it can elevate your outfit.
- Choosing the Right Pocket Square: Learn how to match colors, fabrics, and patterns with your suit for any occasion.
- Folding Techniques: Master essential folds like the puff, square, and triangle to suit different events and styles.
- Pairing with Shirts and Ties: Discover tips for creating a cohesive look by coordinating your pocket square with your outfit.
- Formal and Casual Styling: Find out how to adapt your pocket square for weddings, business meetings, and casual gatherings.
- Care and Storage: Keep your pocket squares looking sharp with simple cleaning and storage tips.
What is a Suit Handkerchief (Pocket Square)?
A suit handkerchief, commonly known as a pocket square, is a small square piece of fabric that is folded and placed in the breast pocket of a suit jacket. It’s primarily a decorative accessory, adding a stylish touch to your outfit. While originally used for practical purposes, such as wiping your face or hands, today the pocket square is mostly worn as a fashion statement. It enhances the suit’s appearance, offering an easy way to express your personal style through color, texture, and fold choice.
Importance of Pocket Squares in Elevating Suit Style
Pocket squares play a significant role in enhancing the overall look of a suit. They add a touch of refinement, turning a standard suit into something more polished and stylish. By choosing the right color, fabric, and fold, a pocket square can reflect your personality and make your outfit stand out.
The pocket square draws attention to the finer details of your attire, showing that you care about the little things. It’s a simple yet effective way to elevate your look for both formal and casual occasions, making your suit appear more intentional and well-thought-out.
Choosing the Right Pocket Square: Matching Pocket Squares with Suit Colors
The right pocket square adds a stylish touch to your suit, elevating your look for any occasion. By considering colors, fabrics, and patterns, you can complement your outfit and showcase your personal style with ease.
Pocket Square for Black Suit
A black suit is timeless and versatile. Classic white is a safe, elegant choice, but you can also add a pop of color with bold red or deep blue for a striking contrast.
Pocket Square for Blue Suit
For a blue suit, neutral tones like white, light gray, or beige work well. You can also choose a patterned pocket square with subtle stripes or dots for added interest, or go for complementary shades of blue for a cohesive look.
Pocket Square for Royal Blue Suit
Royal blue suits are bold, so pair them with contrasting colors like gold, yellow, or soft pastels. These shades create balance and complement the richness of the blue.
Blue Pocket Square with Black Suit
A blue pocket square can be the perfect match for a black suit. Opt for navy or cobalt blue to keep it understated but stylish, adding depth and elegance without overwhelming the look.
Rules for Wearing a Pocket Square
A pocket square is a subtle yet powerful way to enhance your suit, but wearing it correctly is key to achieving a polished look. Here are the essential rules to follow:
Complement, Don’t Match
Your pocket square should complement your outfit rather than match it exactly. Avoid identical patterns or colors with your tie or shirt. Instead, select a pocket square that shares a complementary tone or subtle element with your tie. For instance, if your tie features a bold pattern, balance it with a simple, solid pocket square in a coordinating color. This creates visual interest without being overly busy.
Balance Patterns and Textures
Mixing patterns can add depth to your outfit, but it requires balance. If your suit or tie features intricate designs, stick to a plain pocket square. On the other hand, a patterned pocket square can work beautifully with a solid tie or suit. The goal is to create harmony without competing for attention.
Choose the Right Fabric
Choose a pocket square fabric based on the occasion. Silk suits formal events with its elegant sheen, while cotton or linen is perfect for casual or daytime affairs. Wool works well for cooler weather, adding a cozy, sophisticated touch.
When selecting a pocket square, the fabric can greatly impact its look and feel. Here are some common materials:
Silk
The most classic option, silk pocket squares are shiny, soft, and smooth, adding a refined touch to any suit. They’re ideal for formal events.
Cotton
A lightweight and breathable option, cotton pocket squares work well for casual or summer events. They have a more relaxed feel compared to silk.
Linen
Linen is similar to cotton but offers a slightly more textured look. It’s great for hot weather, as it’s breathable and looks more laid-back yet still stylish.
Wool Blends
Wool pocket squares add a bit more structure and are a great choice for fall or winter, offering a cozy yet sophisticated feel.
Madder Silk
A unique variation of silk, madder silk has a slightly rougher texture and often features intricate patterns. It’s perfect for adding subtle style to your outfit.
Choosing Between Cotton and Silk
Silk is the perfect choice for formal occasions, adding a polished and elegant touch. It’s ideal for evening events, weddings, or business functions where a sharp, refined appearance is key. On the other hand, cotton is better suited for daytime or casual events, offering a relaxed, comfortable feel. It pairs well with lighter fabrics like linen or cotton suits, making it a great option for warm weather.
Less Is More
A pocket square is meant to enhance your look, not dominate it. Avoid overly flamboyant folds or loud colors that distract from your overall ensemble. Subtlety often leaves a stronger impression, especially in formal or professional settings.
By following these rules, your pocket square will add the perfect finishing touch to your outfit, showcasing your attention to detail and personal style.
When Not to Wear a Pocket Square: Knowing When Less is More
While a pocket square can elevate your suit with style and sophistication, there are times when it’s best to leave it out. Here’s when skipping the pocket square is a smart choice:
For a Minimalist Look
In certain situations, less truly is more. If you’re aiming for a sleek, understated style, going without a pocket square can help maintain a clean and simple appearance. This approach works well in professional or conservative settings where subtlety is key.
At Very Casual Events
Pocket squares are typically associated with formal or semi-formal attire. For casual occasions—such as relaxed social gatherings or outdoor events—omitting the pocket square can help you avoid looking overdressed or out of place.
With Bold or Patterned Suits
If your suit already features eye-catching patterns, textures, or colors, adding a pocket square might make your outfit feel too busy. By forgoing the pocket square, you let the bold elements of your suit take center stage, creating a more balanced and harmonious look.
When the Occasion Demands Simplicity
Certain events or environments—like solemn occasions or minimalist fashion statements—may call for simplicity in your outfit. In these cases, a pocket square could distract from the intended tone or message.
By knowing when to skip the pocket square, you can ensure your look is appropriate, balanced, and suited to the occasion. Remember, the absence of a pocket square is just as much a style choice as wearing one.
Creative Pocket Square Looks: Styles and Folds
A pocket square adds flair to your suit. Discover creative styles and folds to elevate your look with sophistication.
How to Style a Pocket Square for Every Occasion
Conservative Styles
For a classic, formal look, go with simple folds like the square or triangle fold. These styles are neat, clean, and timeless, perfect for professional or elegant occasions.
Flamboyant Styles
If you want to make a bold statement, try the winged puff or stairs fold. These styles add personality and flair, drawing attention without being too flashy.
Pocket Square Without Tie Styles
When not wearing a tie, your pocket square should still add a touch of sophistication. Choose a relaxed fold like the puff or a simple square fold. This keeps the look casual yet refined, perfect for events like summer parties or smart-casual gatherings.
How to Fold a Pocket Square for Weddings: Best folds for formal events
For formal events like weddings, a pocket square should enhance your attire without overshadowing the overall look.
Puff Fold
Soft and elegant, the puff fold adds volume and texture, making it ideal for weddings.
Triangle Fold
A sharp, sophisticated choice that gives your pocket square a crisp, polished appearance.
Intricate Folds
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a more intricate fold like the flower or crown fold for an eye-catching touch at your wedding or a special event.
Pocket Square Folding Techniques: Essential Folds
Mastering pocket square folds can enhance the overall look of your suit. Here are some of the most popular and versatile folds:
The Square Fold
Style: Simple and formal.
How-to: Fold the pocket square into a neat square, then fold it into thirds horizontally and vertically. The edges should just peek out of your pocket, providing a clean, crisp appearance. This is ideal for formal settings like weddings or business meetings.
The Triangle Fold
Style: Classic elegance.
How-to: Fold the pocket square into a triangle, then fold the bottom point up to create a narrow triangle. The folded edge should fit comfortably in your pocket, with the triangle pointing upward. This fold works well for formal events and adds a touch of sophistication.
The Puff Fold
Style: Versatile and casual.
How-to: Pinch the center of the pocket square, then fold the edges toward the center to form a puffed effect. Place it loosely in your pocket, allowing the soft folds to peek out. This fold is great for more relaxed events or when you’re going for a stylish, yet laid-back look.
The Stairs Fold
Style: Bold and intricate.
How-to: Fold the pocket square into a narrow strip, then fold it back on itself in a series of steps. The effect resembles a staircase. This fold adds visual interest and is perfect for making a statement at semi-formal or creative events.
The Winged Puff
Style: A touch of flair.
How-to: Fold the pocket square into a puff, but this time leave the edges sticking out like wings. This fold adds an extra dimension to your look and is ideal for more daring styles, especially when paired with a suit that has a bit of flair or color.
Color and Pattern Coordination
Classic Color Combinations
Some color combinations are timeless and always work well together.
Black and White
A black suit with a white pocket square is the classic choice. It’s clean, simple, and always sharp.
Monochromatic Schemes
If you prefer a uniform look, use shades of the same color for your suit and pocket square. For example, pair a dark blue suit with a light blue pocket square for a polished, monochromatic effect.
Using the Color Wheel for Coordination
The color wheel is a great tool to help you choose complementary or analogous colors for your pocket square.
Complementary Colors
These are colors that are opposite each other on the color wheel, like red and green or blue and orange. When paired, they create strong contrasts and stand out.
Analogous Colors
These colors are next to each other on the color wheel, such as blue, blue-green, and green. They work well together for a harmonious, more subtle look.
Styling with Specific Colors
Each color of pocket square adds a different vibe to your suit:
Yellow
A bright, cheerful choice, ideal for spring or summer events. It pairs well with dark suits like navy or gray.
Red or Burgundy
These colors create a bold, confident look. A red pocket square adds warmth and energy, while burgundy gives a more refined, elegant touch.
Blue
A versatile choice that works with almost any suit color. Light blue adds a soft touch, while navy or cobalt blue can add sophistication.
Warm-Toned Pocket Squares
Shades like burnt orange or mustard yellow work well with neutral suits, like beige or gray, adding an unexpected pop of color.
Special Pairings
Matching A Tie and Pocket Square
When pairing a tie with a pocket square, the key is to create harmony without being too matchy-matchy.
Pairing bold patterned ties with subtle pocket squares
If you’re wearing a tie with a bold pattern (like stripes or polka dots), keep your pocket square simple with a solid color or a light pattern. This avoids visual overload and maintains balance.
Harmonizing colors for a cohesive look
If you prefer a matching look, select a pocket square that has a color that’s already in your tie’s pattern. For example, if your tie has red and white stripes, a pocket square with a hint of red or white will tie the outfit together without being too predictable.
Pocket Square with Different Attire
Your pocket square can work with more than just a suit.
Care and Maintenance
Caring for Your Pocket Square
To keep your pocket square looking its best, it’s important to properly care for it, especially depending on the material.
Silk
Hand wash silk pocket squares gently in cool water with mild detergent. Avoid wringing them out, as this can damage the fabric. Dry flat or hang them up to air dry.
Cotton and Linen
These materials can usually be machine washed on a gentle cycle. Always check the care label for specific instructions. Iron cotton and linen pocket squares while slightly damp for a crisp finish.
Wool Blends
Wool pocket squares should be dry cleaned to maintain their shape and texture. Avoid washing them at home to prevent shrinkage or distortion.
Madder Silk
Like regular silk, madder silk should be hand washed with care or dry cleaned for best results.
Storage Solutions to Maintain Shape and Texture
Folding
Always fold your pocket square neatly after use to maintain its shape. Avoid cramming it into your pocket, as this can cause creases and wear.
Storage Box
For extra protection, store your pocket squares in a fabric-lined storage box or drawer. You can also use a pocket square holder, which helps maintain the shape and avoids wrinkles.
Avoiding Damage
Keep pocket squares away from direct sunlight to prevent fading, and store them in a cool, dry place to avoid any mold or mildew buildup, especially with cotton and linen varieties.
Conclusion
We’ve explored the essential rules, styles, and techniques for wearing a suit handkerchief with confidence. From choosing the right pocket square to mastering various folds, these details can elevate your overall look. Remember to experiment with colors, patterns, and fabrics that reflect your personal style.
A pocket square may be a small accessory, but it has the power to make a big impact. Wear it with confidence and let it add that perfect finishing touch to your suit.
FAQs
Should I Wear a Pocket Square to a Wedding?
Yes, but with some guidelines. As a guest, a pocket square can add a stylish touch, but avoid wearing anything too flashy that might outshine the groom. Stick to subtle patterns or classic white. For the groom, a pocket square is essential and can be a great way to add a personal touch, whether it’s a crisp white linen or a more colorful option that matches the wedding theme.
How to Wear with a Tuxedo
For formal events like black-tie galas, a classic white pocket square is your best bet. A crisp, neatly folded pocket square adds elegance without taking attention away from the tuxedo.
How to Wear with a Blazer Coat
When wearing a blazer without a full suit, you can be more creative with your pocket square. Go for a more casual fold, like the puff fold, and experiment with colors or patterns that complement the blazer. A subtle pattern or a pop of color can add sophistication to a relaxed, smart-casual look.
