A well-dressed man in the center wearing a sharp, tailored suit. The background is filled with various pocket squares, neatly folded in different styles, showcasing their textures and colors. The scene is elegant and stylish, with a cinematic lighting effect that highlights the man's confident posture and the details of his suit. Photorealistic, high resolution, professional fashion photography style.

A pocket square can make your suit look good, but if you don’t choose or fold it right, it can look messy. Many people struggle with keeping it in place or matching it with their suit.

This guide makes it easy. You’ll learn how to pick the right pocket square, fold it neatly, and keep it secure all day.

With simple steps, you’ll know which folds work best, how to match your pocket square with your suit, and how to avoid common mistakes.

By the end, you’ll be able to wear a pocket square with confidence.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

Choosing the Right Pocket Square: Learn how to pick the best fabric, color, and pattern for any occasion.
Folding Techniques: Discover simple folds like the puff, square, and two-point fold.
Keeping Your Pocket Square in Place: Find out how to prevent it from slipping or losing shape.
Matching Your Pocket Square to Your Suit: Get tips on pairing colors, patterns, and textures.
Styling for Different Occasions: Learn the best pocket square choices for weddings, business meetings, and casual events.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Avoid clashing colors, bulky folds, and other styling errors.

Choosing the Right Handkerchief for Your Suit

First, you need to choose the right handkerchief in men’s suit pocket. Not all handkerchiefs are the same, and your choice depends on the occasion and your suit style. For example, a silk handkerchief in suit pocket is a classic, often chosen for weddings or formal events, as it adds a touch of luxury. Meanwhile, a white handkerchief in suit pocket is timeless and works well for almost any occasion, from business meetings to casual gatherings.

When picking a handkerchief, also consider the size. It shouldn’t be too large or too small for your pocket. A pocket square should fit comfortably without bulging out. Additionally, remember that red handkerchief for suit pocket adds a bold statement to your outfit, while patterns like paisley or floral bring fun and flair.

How to Fold a Handkerchief for a Suit Pocket

Now that you’ve chosen your handkerchief, it’s time to learn how to fold a handkerchief for suit pocket. The right fold will help it stay in place and look neat throughout the day. Here are a few simple folds to consider:

The Puff Fold

Close-up of a suit pocket with a handkerchief in a puff fold. The fabric is gathered at the center, creating a soft, rounded puff with edges slightly exposed. Elegant and effortless, set against a tailored suit.

Pinch the center of the handkerchief. Gather the edges together. Place it in your pocket with the edges puffing out.

The Three Point Fold

A pocket square folded into three sharp triangles, sitting in the pocket of a gray suit. The three points are evenly spaced and neatly arranged. The pocket square is plain or lightly textured. The lighting is soft and clear.

Fold the handkerchief into a triangle. Fold two points down towards the middle. Place it in your pocket with three points showing.

The Presidential/Square Fold

A pocket square folded into straight line, clean edge visible above the pocket of a black suit. The pocket square is crisp, with no wrinkles, and perfectly aligned. The suit fabric is smooth and well-tailored. The lighting is soft and professional.

Fold the handkerchief in half to form a rectangle. Fold it in half again to make a square. Tuck it into your pocket with just the edge showing.

The Two Peak/Point Fold

Close-up of a suit pocket with a two-point folded handkerchief. Two sharp, symmetrical peaks are visible above the pocket, creating a refined and stylish appearance, complementing the tailored suit.

Fold the handkerchief into a triangle. Fold the two top points back to show two peaks. Place it in your pocket.

The One-Point Fold

Fold the handkerchief into a triangle. Place it in your pocket with the single point facing up for a clean, classic look.

How to Keep Handkerchief in Suit Pocket: Tips to Secure It

Once you’ve folded your handkerchief, the next step is making sure it stays in place. Here are a few tricks to keep pocket square in place:

Use a Pocket Square Holder

Pocket square holders are an easy solution to keep your handkerchief from slipping. They are small, discreet, and keep your handkerchief firmly in place.

Double the Fold

Adding an extra fold will give the handkerchief more structure, helping it stay put. This is especially helpful for slippery fabrics like silk.

Use a Safety Pin

If you’re worried about the handkerchief falling out, you can discreetly pin the bottom of the handkerchief to the pocket lining, making sure it’s hidden from view.

Line the Pocket with Tissue

A small piece of tissue inside the pocket can add extra support and prevent the handkerchief from shifting.

How to Match Your Pocket Square Fold with Different Suits

Classic Navy Suit

The Presidential Fold or Puff Fold: A navy suit is timeless and versatile. A clean presidential fold with a white or complementary colored pocket square adds sophistication and balance. If you want a touch of personality, the puff fold works well, offering a more relaxed look while keeping things stylish.

Gray Suit

The Classic Square Fold or One-Point Fold: A gray suit is a staple in any wardrobe, ideal for both formal and business events. The classic square fold in a white or muted color enhances the sharp look, while the one-point fold can give it a modern, fashion-forward touch for a slightly more casual event.

Black Suit

The Presidential Fold or Crown Fold: A black suit is perfect for formal occasions. The presidential fold adds elegance and seriousness, while the crown fold brings a bit of boldness—ideal for formal galas or black-tie events.

Light Blue Suit

The Two-Point Fold or Puff Fold: Light blue suits are great for spring or summer. The two-point fold provides a sharp, structured look, while the puff fold complements the soft, relaxed feel of a lighter suit, making it perfect for casual events like afternoon parties or weddings.

Burgundy Suit

The Puff Fold or Three-Point Fold: Burgundy suits make a statement, and the puff fold adds a laid-back but stylish touch, great for evening events. The three-point fold works well for adding a modern edge, keeping the boldness of the burgundy suit balanced with a creative flourish.

Patterned Suit (Plaid, Checked, etc.)

A fashionable plaid or checked suit, structured and tailored, displayed with attention to its pattern. Beside it, a pocket square is folded into a one-point fold, with a single peak standing out, placed elegantly on a neutral surface. The background emphasizes the suit’s texture.

The One-Point Fold or Presidential Fold: Patterned suits already have a lot of visual interest, so a simple one-point fold keeps things in check, while the presidential fold adds a sophisticated contrast without competing with the suit’s design.

Summer Linen Suit

The Puff Fold or Classic Square Fold: A linen suit is light and breathable, perfect for summer events. A puff fold brings a relaxed feel that works well with linen’s airy texture. For a more formal touch, the classic square fold adds a clean, polished look.

Double-Breasted Suit

The One-Point Fold or Crown Fold: Double-breasted suits have a bold, structured silhouette. Pair them with a one-point fold for a sharp and streamlined look. For more personality, the crown fold adds a stylish, modern flair without overwhelming the suit’s formal style.

Casual Tweed Suit

A rugged yet stylish tweed suit, emphasizing its textured fabric and classic design. On the side, a pocket square is styled in a soft puff shape (Puff Fold) and placed aesthetically near the suit, complementing its casual yet elegant nature. Warm lighting enhances the suit’s vintage appeal.

The Two-Point Fold or Puff Fold: Tweed suits have a rugged, textured look, making the two-point fold or puff fold ideal. These folds add a relaxed, stylish touch that complements the more laid-back nature of a tweed suit.

Styling Tips for Different Occasions

For Formal Events

Stick with a classic fold and a neutral-colored handkerchief in suit pocket like white or silk handkerchief in suit pocket for a refined look.

For Weddings and Celebrations:

This is your chance to have fun with your handkerchief. You can go for a red handkerchief for suit pocket or a patterned one, adding personality to your look.

For Business Meetings:

Keep it professional with simple folds. A white handkerchief in suit pocket or a subtle, neutral tone works best here.

For Casual Events

You can experiment with bold colors or even a floral or geometric pattern for a more relaxed vibe.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mismatching with Your Suit

The handkerchief that goes in suit pocket should complement your suit, not clash with it. Avoid bright, clashing colors that take away from the suit’s overall look.

Using a Crumpled Handkerchief

Always iron your handkerchief before wearing it. A wrinkled handkerchief in your suit jacket pocket can make your outfit look disheveled.

Overstuffing the Pocket

Make sure your handkerchief fits comfortably. If it sticks out too much, it looks untidy.

Matching Your Pocket Square and Tie Exactly

Matching your pocket square and tie in the exact same fabric or pattern can look overly coordinated and less stylish. Instead, aim for a complementary look with different textures or patterns that match in color or theme but aren’t identical.

Final Thoughts

A handkerchief is more than just a fashion accessory—it’s a key part of your overall look. By following these simple tips and learning how to keep handkerchief in suit pocket properly, you can add elegance and charm to any suit. Whether you’re going for a silk handkerchief in suit pocket for a wedding or a red handkerchief for suit pocket for a night out, the right pocket square will take your suit game to the next level.

So next time you’re putting together your outfit, remember these tricks. With a little practice, you’ll look like a true gentleman, ready for any occasion.

How to Keep Handkerchief in Suit Pocket Securely

Choosing the Right Handkerchief for Your Suit