Your Guide to the Pocket Square

A pocket square brings style and sophistication to your ensemble. There are two types of men in the world; gentlemen with a pocket square, and everyone else. A pocket square makes all the difference for one’s confidence and sense of style. Wearing a pocket square should not just be about the image one chooses to project in everyday life, but also inherent in the way the wearer of the pocket square feels for the day. 

The equation for the pocket square is simple:

• Well matched in colour to the rest of the attire including other accessories.
• The right material, suited for the fold and the jacket.
• The right pocket square pattern, doing justice for the occasion and fold.
• Folded for the occasion, whether that is formal, the workplace, or more social.

Lining up these choices should have a transformative effect for the gentleman, as well as the feel of the place and time in which it’s worn. From a plain white pocket square in a more traditional and conservative style of fold, to a more elaborate and colourful design in an eccentric fold shown off to the world; the pocket square is a touch of brilliance and class for any situation.

History of the Square

Pocket squares are found throughout history as a small aid, whether as a fashion accessory or as a convenient piece of material for a gentleman to offer a lady. Many believe that it was the Egyptians who started by dying pieces of cloth as decoration. Greeks also had their time with the small square, with the addition of perfume to ensure a pleasant smell was always near. The pocket square in early times was not only for fashion but served a definite function. It was also a sign of high class and nobility.

Pocket Squares of the Past

The use of a handkerchief style cloth specifically for fashion goes back to the days of King Richard II of England, who would use an embroidered version. The court of Louis XVI expanded on this with embroidered pocket squares made from silk and continuing the tradition of using perfume for a pleasant scent. Marie Antoinette had Louis XVI to regulate the pocket square to being sixteen inches in length and width, complaining that pocket squares had gotten too large to be practical. The pocket square was a sign of wealth and high fashion at the time.

The Modern Square

The rise of the two-piece suit during the nineteenth century put the pocket square as a feature in the suit jacket. The popular series Mad Men shows the pocket square as a strong feature of fashion in the 1960s. Since the turn of the century, the humble piece of cotton, linen, wool, or silk has experienced a resurgence to denote a level of confidence and gentlemanly charm. 

In the modern day, the pocket square is an accessory that has been adopted by those who are gentlemen of their own time. The wearer of the pocket square is quite often humble yet confident. The decrease in the use of the tie has made room for a colourful accessory to adorn the male chest, and that is the pocket square. Used with a tie or a cravat, the pocket square is still a charming accent to add to any wardrobe. Whether used humbly and traditionally or boldly and flamboyantly, the pocket square states I care. I care about what I look like and how I am presented to the world.

The Pocket Square in 2021

With the eb and flow of style, the pocket square flows in and out of popularity, seen in the later nineteenth century, the 1920s, and a resurgence in the 60s and 70s. Today is different though. Many corporate offices and contemporary gentlemen have foregone the necktie, only to leave their attire bland and without adornment. The pocket square is the perfect replacement for these observers of modern fashion and relaxed easy-going look of not wearing a tie.

There are also other fashion accessories that have risen to more prominence from a previous era; the boutonniere, the cravat, the waistcoat. The pocket square is flexible enough to work with any of these accessories. Alternatively, it also works well with the traditional necktie or bow tie. The pocket square is a supporting bit of fabric that transcends multiple garments and styles.

Regardless of what is considered contemporary or traditional, we all know in our heart of hearts the future of the pocket square for 2021 and beyond. It is a piece of material that is timeless and classic, a call-back to a simpler time, or a fresh and eccentric look for the modern day. With the flexibility in fabric, pattern, colour, and method of folding; a pocket square is the versatile and outspoken must-have accessory for your jacket. 

Whether socially, at work, or in a formal setting; wear your pocket square. Make it your own look. 

Broad Guidelines

There are a few simple guidelines that are universally accepted among those who enjoy wearing the pocket square. If followed, the wearer will not find themselves out of place or disappointed in their use of the square:

1. Never match your tie and square. This is non-negotiable. Get creative, have one as a solid colour that picks up a highlight in the other if possible.

2. Be conscious of patterns with the ensemble. For example, a checkered or tartan square with a pinstripe suit is potentially a dangerous mismatch.

3. If using a silk square, make sure it’s bigger than sixteen inches by sixteen inches to prevent it from slipping down the jacket pocket.

4. When in doubt, choose white. White matches anything as long as the jacket is not white. It’s neutral and can be folded for any situation.

5. Be conscious of your choice of fold and material, and where you are. Match your fold and square to the occasion.

6. Keep natural fibres together. A natural fibre suit should not be combined with a synthetic square and visa-versa.

7. Your pocket square – it cannot be stressed enough – is not for fluids bodily or otherwise. If you have a runny nose or wish to mop up spilt drinks get a handkerchief or serviette.

Square Etiquette

Be careful using your pocket square. Not all pocket squares are ideal for every situation, and not all folds suit all pocket squares or times to use them. Consider the scenario that you are in before choosing to use the accessory just for the sake of it. Exercise caution but enjoy the tradition of offering your pocket square to someone else. Offering a pocket square is the formation of a bond and a part of courtship that dates back to antiquity. 

Pocket squares in 2021 and beyond are suitable for any type of suit jacket, and by adhering to a few simple guidelines it is possible to use a pocket square with any wardrobe, in any situation, as long as you aren’t folding your square into the breast pocket of a shirt.

Occasions to Wear a Pocket Square

Some would argue that every day is an occasion for a pocket square; this is true. What does need to be considered when using a pocket square, is what the occasion calls for in terms of both fold and the pattern of the square itself. Not all folds and all squares are made for all occasions. The following will aid in what to consider for each possible environment.

The Work Environment

Working in a conservative office may not be ideal for many pocket square folds and patterns. It is usually best to stick to very gentle patterns in design and plain colours depending on the fold being used. The Presidential Fold and The One Point Fold are made in the spirit of the more ordinary day-to-day workspace. That being said, there are certain situations that deserve more power to be shown in the office, and what better way to show strength at work than through a commanding pocket square. 

Incorporating two or three points in a fold may be just the flair that your suit requires to make that more sophisticated statement. More intricate and interesting folds will give the impression of a more sophisticated, advanced and articulate gentleman wearing the pocket square. Avoid folds that are too eccentric and avoid pocket squares that have too much pattern. 

Use your pocket square fold to show off your skill, intellect, and dedication. The pocket square allows you to highlight and show off your attire and advanced attention to detail. The pocket square should reflect the attitude that you bring to your work.

The Formal Environment

Any wedding, gala event, or black tie occasion can be lifted with your pocket square. These events generally lend themselves well to a single coloured square, ideally silk, and something that will show off a sophisticated fold such as The Monarch Fold or The Three Stairs Fold. These events lend themselves well to the mark of sophistication that a pocket square can deliver. 

Folds that are too eccentric may risk dragging down the overall attire for the occasion and folds that are too conservative or traditional often make the rest of the ensemble look too plain. A flamboyant fold may present as dismissive of the seriousness in the event. Similarly, many pocket square patterns are too theatrical or ostentatious  to do justice to a formal event. 

Go for a classic look with black tie and white pocket square to give the ultimate contrast, mirroring the black jacket against a white shirt. This formal look within a black-tie event will allow the wearer to present the yin and yang of dress codes; a touch of the black tie on the white shirt with a touch of the white square on a black jacket.

The Social Environment

Social occasions are your time to shine with your pocket square, and show off some great skill in matching and folding. It’s these occasions that call for drawing more attention to highlight your energy, vivaciousness, and liveliness that you are bringing to the event. Your pocket square not only becomes a part of the wardrobe, but also a talking point if you’re introduced to strangers. 

Make sure you approach these occasions with a degree of humility; allow others to first comment when you are wearing The Croissant Fold for example. These occasions are also best to showcase your more exciting designs and how they match with other accessories. Nothing speaks of excitement like wearing The Hollywood Fold on a day to the races, or The Ice Cream Mountain Fold to a family event. Of course, these are also opportunities to showcase the more exciting pocket squares that are saved for only social occasions. Bold designs and bright colours are more befitting of these flamboyant styles. 

The more social occasions are all about being on the right level of extravagance. A social work event could be a suitable occasion to use a more social pocket square fold. The pocket square used at a social event is your opportunity to bring a touch of effervescence to the occasion.

A Rule of Thumb: The Necktie

A good rule of thumb is to use a solid tie with a patterned pocket square, or a patterned tie with a solid pocket square. Never, ever, should a pocket square and tie match. If you find yourself in a situation where your pocket square and tie match, the best way to resolve this is to find someone else in the same predicament, and swap. As controversial political figure Roger Stone once said:

A Rule of Thumb: Offering to Others

There is something that cannot be stressed enough; a pocket square is not a handkerchief. It is made as an accessory to your clothing and not something to have human fluids to be dribbled on. However, the height of chivalry can be offering a pocket square to someone in need. Historically, a perfumed pocket square was given from a woman to a man as a symbol of their affection. Knights would wear these pocket squares as they go into battle. 

The gift of a pocket square is to serve as a reminder for the other person. Once it is given, it should never be taken back. The returned pocket square is considered a conclusion to that affection. The pocket square can be a tool in courtship and demonstrating adoration towards another. It is a classic and quaint symbol of affection. Offering to a partner is symbolic of those romantic gestures that your partner loves so much in romantic tales.

Here is one thing though; you know yourself all too well. You won’t be able to help yourself but take that gorgeous square and offer it to someone who is crying, or mop up a spilled drink. You are, after all, a gentleman. For this reason it is a good idea to carry your pocket square for the world, and a separate handkerchief for all other intents and purposes. You could also get a packet of disposable tissues. Anything that is not sullying your pocket square is good advice. Most venues even provide serviettes as a standard. If you’re in a venue without serviettes you may be lost. Find a venue more befitting of a gentleman wearing a pocket square.

Pairing Your Pocket Square With Your Wardrobe

Pocket squares can be used with a broad range of different wardrobes. It depends on the occasion in which you may find yourself, but the following should offer some guide on how a pocket square may be used with the staples of a gentleman’s wardrobe.

Choosing the right pocket square for your two-piece suit

The daily suit worn as a stock standard of attire lends itself well to a pocket square. For the sake of familiarity and convenience it may be ideal to use a more traditional fold. A broad range of folds will be suitable with a day-to-day suit. When it comes to patterns, it is wise to take into account the pattern or design of the suit. It is good advice to exercise caution when it comes to stripes and checks just like with shirts and trousers. It is okay to be bold sometimes, and the daily two piece suit lends itself well to many options when it comes to your pocket square.

Squares for Waistcoats

Let’s just settle this now, once and for all. A pocket square, worn with a waistcoat or vest, is absolutely acceptable. However – if you wear a jacket over the top to make a three piece suit this is not okay. There are many times where a gentleman tries to pull off this faux pas at a wedding, clearly their first time wielding a pocket square. It’s understandable if you don’t know any better, we have all been there. As an aficionado of the pocket square and observer of this tradition, it is time to make a stand and ensure it does not happen with our own wardrobe.

Squares for Tuxedos

Absolutely wear a pocket square with your tuxedo, but keep in mind that there are some guidelines. Solid colour pocket squares are essential, silk pocket squares are ideal. If in doubt, go with white. Ideally, use a fold that is not too eccentric; a more traditional fold will do a formal occasion a bespoke justice instead of something too extravagant and ostentatious. If in doubt, find a white pocket square and choose the monarch fold; the combination is sophisticated and charming. Befitting of a gentleman on a special occasion.

Squares for Blazers

The blazer is the canvas for which the flamboyant or eccentric pocket square was made. The blazer often implies that it is a smart casual event, or a casual smart event. This is your time to exercise creativity, but keep the fabric and pattern in mind. When it comes to a tweed blazer, a solid-coloured silk pocket square may be ill-suited where a cotton or woolen pocket square with an interesting pattern may do better justice. This is also a good opportunity to get creative with the folds and amaze friends, family, or colleagues.

Squares for Sports Coats

A sports coat with a pocket square can look amazing, but this is a situation where one must exercise restraint when it comes to the pattern chosen. Sports coats generally have heavy, dominant patterns. Choose a pocket square that can blend in with these patterns, or even a linen pocket square. A solid colour pocket square may not function too well, especially if the tone is too deep and regal. Pastel colours with complimentary designs. Just like blazers, feel free to get creative with your fold too.

Squares for Shirts

There are some people who are all too tempted by the pocket in the shirt. Many have been in this situation. It’s a hot day, there’s a formal shirt that has a breast pocket. You consider the shirt and you’re excited to wear a pocket square, but it’s hot. One may consider putting a pocket square in that breast pocket of the shirt. It is absolutely essential to resist this urge. The breast pocket of a shirt, regardless of how fancy the shirt may be, is no home for a pocket square. 

Squares for Overcoats

An overcoat is a cold weather jacket meant to help brave the conditions. This is no place for the stunning garment that is the pocket square. You should not leave your pocket square out in the elements, braving the wind, snow, or rain. The breast pocket of the overcoat is not for decoration, but for function. Enjoy it.

Pairing Your Pocket Square by Colour

There are four main considerations when it comes to using a pocket square; material, pattern, fold, and colour. Colour is the best starting point for choosing a pocket square, since there is so much to consider when it comes to the rest of your attire. Colour is often independent of the formality of the occasion, and when chosen poorly makes more difference than a mis-chosen pocket square fold.

Choosing a Colour

Choose a colour that is present in your ensemble; a secondary colour that will help the pocket square accentuate your suit as a whole package. The pocket square should pick up other colours within your attire. Solid colours are always a great option to start with if you’re unsure which fold you’re going to use. Keep in mind the choice of colour with ensemble. It can be useful to take on a seasonal colour approach; keeping autumn, spring, summer, and winter tones together when selecting the colour for your pocket square.

Contrasting Colours

One approach to choosing a colour for the pocket square is to draw attention to it. The gentleman wearing a pocket square is often showing that they are bold and unique, and choosing a colour that stands out assists with that goal. If you are wearing a dark suit, go for a light pocket square. If you are wearing a light suit, choose a dark pocket square. 

White Pocket Squares

Many opportunities for wearing a pocket square can be resolved simply with a white pocket square. Many suits are often a darker colour, and white offers that conservative appearance easily. The white square is also perfect for use with a tuxedo, proving a contrast against the usually black tie and coat. If just starting out with a pocket square, a white square will be fit for virtually any occasion and suits a more basic fold very well.

Choosing a Pocket Square Design

Size

Pocket squares need to be sixteen inches square. Anything smaller and the pocket square will be a risk to slip down the pocket. No one wishes to spend their day retrieving and adjusting a fallen pocket square. By the same token, a pocket square should not be too large. Marie Antoinette herself complained that pocket squares were getting too large in 18th century France, forcing her husband to regulate the size that a pocket square should be. The result was Louis XVI ruling that pocket squares should be sixteen inches square, or forty centimetres. 

Monograms and Embroidery

A nice personal touch with a pocket square can include monograms and embroidery. This adds a personal note to the pocket square, although not generally seen by everyone else when it is folded. These are not usually for the pocket square when the wearer is purchasing it for themselves, but a neat addition to a gifted square. It’s also a touch of prestige when offered to someone else. 

At one stage in history, someone would give the gift of a perfumed pocket square in courtship to serve as a reminder of their affection. This could include the giver’s monogrammed initials as a reminder from whom the pocket square was received. A pocket square given as a gift for a special occasion may include the recipient’s initials monogrammed; that personal touch so the wearer never forgets who they are.

Symbols and intricate embroidery are often found on more luxurious pocket squares. Then again, it is up to the wearer. A very classy corporate company may have their logo embroidered on pocket squares so when the square is worn using The One Point Fold, the company’s logo is shown in glory. Some squares may include embroidery as a feature, and it is up to the wearer to choose the right fold to ensure that the embroidery is done justice when worn.

Patterns

The beauty in a pocket square is the opportunity of showing off interesting patterns in the fabrics themselves. There is a wealth of choice available when it comes to unique pocket square designs, and the choice in pattern is highly contingent upon the occasion and the fold being used. Not all designs will look well with just any fold. The pattern can quite often be an exercise in constraint. Consider the rest of your clothing when choosing a pattern. For example, a strong pattern in a tie or cravat is not a sign that there should be a strong pattern used with your pocket square. It can’t be stressed enough; the pocket square is there to compliment the rest of the suit and accessories that go with it.

Elaborate Patterns

Many pocket squares feature elaborate patterns, with large works of art or floral designs. These pocket squares often look amazing when used in more social situations. Folds that do not show off the edge of the pocket square will generally show off the centre design, ideal for these squares. Quite often, pocket squares with strong artistic features or even scenes are unable to be fully shown. This is okay. When folded, a slight hint will come into view to generate wonder for the observer. This quite often makes the square a talking point, to be unfolded and revealed as a unique work of art.

These squares also make wonderful gifts. There are many times that a work of art has become a pocket square. They are amazing to look at and interesting when folded, and when gifted are points of amusement and thoughtfulness. Giving a pocket square that has a famous Rembrandt painting printed on it can be the ideal gift for the art enthusiast, or a pocket square with the printed smiling face of Sit Elton John could be perfect for a music lover. When folded, the square will look unique and generate wonder. 

Subtle Textured Patterns

There are many pocket squares on the market that have subtle repetitive textures. These are fantastic for multiple use cases in both social and business situations. These squares can be used for a range of folds and great for matching with ties that may also have patterns. Subtle texture in a square also does well at showing off certain folds. These squares may be used with a broader range of other accessories, often providing multiple colours for matching while not being dominant to the point of mis-match. 

Edge Designs

There are some pocket squares that carry unique edge designs that are either stitched or printed on the fabric. In either case, these squares are ideal for certain folds that show off these unique edge designs. It’s where your pocket square will truly shine. This could be as simple as a highlight colour printed around the edge, piped overlocking, or even a signature hand-rolled edge with a cross-stitch. The right edge design can lend itself to being shown off with some folds, or can be easy to hide for other situations if need be. A solid white square with an elaborate edge can be used for The Presidential Fold when the occasion calls for restraint, or a pointed or peaked fold when the wearer prefers showing off that edge.

Machine vs. Hand Rolled Edge

There are certain things in life that someone simply must do. For example, there is the feeling of having a professional shave at the hands of a barber using a cut-throat razor. The pocket square equivalent of this feeling is using a pocket square with a hand-rolled edge. The square holds its shape and the fold much better, and it usually has a mitred corner to avoid bulking up too much in the pocket. 

The hand cross-stitch is also an amazing look in a pocket square; eye-catching and attention seeking for any fold that shows off the edge of the square. This addition to the pocket square adds interest and becomes a dominating feature of the material. It is the difference between a boring pocket square and a square of true interest, marking the character of the wearer.

A hand rolled edge will not be noticed by everyone, but true lovers of the pocket square will identify it and give you that all-knowing look, that you have great taste in squares.

Choosing Your Square Material

As a general rule, the sleeker and finer the material means the more the more formal the pocket square. This is not necessarily set in stone, but rarely would someone use cotton or linen squares with a tuxedo. You should also consider the type of fold that you may end up using with the pocket square. Some pocket square folds will lend themselves better to a stiffer material, while others will benefit from the softer touch of a fine silk. 

The material should be considered within the context of the rest of the ensemble, taking into account the material from which the suit and other accessories are also made out of. It is best to keep natural fabrics together. A synthetic pocket square will lower the appeal of a tailored wool blend suit, just as a wool or linen pocket square may accentuate the disparity in quality between a synthetic suit and the high-end pocket square.

Different materials can be fun to experiment with. A wool pocket square can work very well with a silk tie and visa-versa. It depends on the occasion and how adventurous you wish to go with the suit as a whole. The main rules for default is to keep colours coordinated, and to keep natural fibres together. Beyond that, style is all yours. Own it.

Silk

Silk is the material of formality. If wearing a tuxedo, the silk pocket square should be the go-to option. It should be kept in mind that the silk pocket square should never be under sixteen inches square to prevent it from slipping down the pocket. Silk pocket squares are eye-catching and bring genteel grace to the formal attire for your next wedding or other formal event. Silk can be used to make many eye-catching and intricate designs, as well as being fine enough for a range of more intricate folds. Silk feels better, not as a tactile feeling, but the knowledge of wearing a silk pocket square gives one the feeling of prestige and well-earned accomplishment.

Wool/Silk Blend

The blend of the two natural fibres is rarely found and not necessarily a preferred choice for many lovers of the pocket square. The wool and silk blend brings the natural memory and delustred appearance of wool, and combines it with the sheen and fine feel of silk. It’s a fantastic blending of two seemingly different worlds. This juxtaposition of fabrics makes a pocket square that can be used broadly against a range of different materials and suitable  environments.

Wool

Wool as a rougher fibre with strong memory doesn’t necessarily lend itself well to more formal attire or conservative situations with strong folds. The ideal place for wool is usually in the casual setting with a more flamboyant fold, especially one that is not in need of maintaining a distinct form. Wool lends itself well to a tweed jacket or sports coat. Wool usually leads to a rougher finish in the pocket square compared with silk or cotton. For all of these reasons, it is best to reserve wool for more casual situations. Wool does give a natural warmth and unique depth of colour, and certainly avoids creating a lustred look with the pocket square, which isn’t always necessarily desired.

Cotton and Linen

Cotton and linen pocket squares are ideal for more casual or business attire. Each material has its own benefits. Cotton brings a strength and stability to the pocket square perfect for maintaining those folds that require more structure. Linen as a material carries a casual or bespoke look to the pocket square, making it more humble and casual but lending a unique visual texture. Cotton is best for those folds that require more structure, whereas linen is ideal for those softer folds and more casual appearances. If you are in need of a perfect solid white pocket square to be used in a presidential fold, cotton is the ideal fabric to reach for to achieve this signature look.

Synthetic

Synthetic materials are without doubt pocket squares. We have all been there in the beginning. These pocket squares are generally cost-efficient, with machine stitched edges and often only having printed designs on one side. They are decent for an entry-level pocket square if you are unsure of the accessory, but try not to use them too long. Synthetic squares are best to use with a synthetic suit. As a gentleman with a tailored wool blended suit, it is best to match your suit with a higher-end square. 

That all being said, there are more formal occasions where the sheen of a synthetic square may lend itself well to the day. If it’s a one-off occasion and silk is outside of the budget, it could be that a synthetic pocket square is worth considering. 

Folding the Pocket Square

The main variables in wearing a pocket square are pattern, colour, material, and fold. The fold that is used for your pocket square must take all of these into account in one way or another. A poorly-thought combination of pocket square and fold leads to a less-than impressive pocket square use. Of course, none of this matters if the fold and the occasion are ill-suited. Wearing a pocket square is not the most complex operation in the world, but it does lend itself the risk of dragging down a wardrobe under certain circumstances.

Choosing Your Fold – Pattern and Design

The pattern, including the design at the edge, will affect how the fold will appear in its end result. A pattern too bland or not bold enough may not do the fold justice. Consider the fold itself and where that pattern will wind up. The edge design is also to be considered here. It could be that the edge is not in fitting with the occasion for wearing the square, and you must choose a fold that will hide it. Alternatively, you may wish to show off the hand stitching or the strong printed design in the middle that your pocket square has.

Choosing Your Fold – Colour

Colour initially may seem irrelevant to choosing your fold, but similar to pattern it could be that there are colours in certain positions in your square that should be accentuated more than others. It is important to ensure that the colour in the square is picking up something else in your wardrobe. It could be that the colour you need in your pocket square is only at the edge or right in the middle of the square. It would be wise to choose a fold that ensures the colour in your square completes the package of what you are wearing.

Choosing Your Fold – Material

Material is often associated more with the occasion in which the pocket square is being worn. However, the pocket square material is also paramount when it comes to certain folds. Some pocket square folds are easier to perform with a fine material like silk or satin. Some materials have a sheen to them that could formalise the square more. Materials like cotton may be better for folds that require more structure to them. The material is just as important to the fold, as the fold itself.

Choosing Your Fold – By Occasion

Finally, the fold itself is of high importance. The fold must suit the occasion. There are folds well suited for more formal affairs, the working day, or social occasions. There are folds that even suit multiple of these, but seldomly does a fold work well for all of these three instances. Each fold that we suggest offers guidance on the ideal situation in which the fold could be used, but the ultimate guide on this should be you, dear reader, and your common sense.

Most of all, and this cannot be stressed enough; the fold must suit you. There is no use in using a pocket square fold that you yourself look at and couldn’t imagine wearing. Exercise judgement from the best guidance that you can be given, which is what you are comfortable in wearing. The pocket square is about your own self expression through wardrobe. The choice is yours to own.

Buying a Pocket Square

There are plenty of places online to purchase a pocket square, but do your best to consider brick and mortar options when you first start out. Get to know the look and feeling of the squares. Hold the various materials in your hands and carefully consider the texture of each. Have a good look at the stitching, the pattern, the size of the pocket square. It is best to understand every aspect of the square that you are purchasing. 

Think of how you intend to use the square. Which other accessories does the square need to go with? Once you have made this step, eventually the online arena will mean being spoilt for choice when it comes to a pocket square. Purchasing a pocket square online broadens your horizons in selection. There are many options available from across the world. Your hand-rolled linen cross-stitch pocket square to be worn on Fridays at work will become an easy purchase decision to make with experience. You will make mistakes in your pocket square purchases, but that is okay. Finding the perfect pocket square is on the same level as finding the perfect food and wine pairing all by yourself.

The most important part of purchasing a pocket square online or at the shops, is to not simply select a pocket square that is fetching for the wrong reasons. Consider which jacket or shirt the pocket square will work well with. Consider the tie that will be worn with the square, and consider the occasion and the fold. It could be that your square will mainly be used in more conservative environments, and it could be worthwhile buying multiple solid-coloured pocket squares to cycle through the work week.

Then again, your pocket square may be selected for a specific occasion. Consider the fold that you would like to go for, and how the design will look when used. 

Some pocket squares feature brilliant designs or artworks, entire scenes or images to be enjoyed. Obviously, when folded these finely-stitched works of art are unable to be seen. These pocket squares are for you to appreciate, or even remove from the pocket to show others. A pocket square can quite often become a conversation piece as an art to be appreciated by others.

Enjoy building your pocket square collection. Over time, you will feel naked leaving the home without one!

Other Accessories

The pocket square as an accessory can be supported or support the rest of your ensemble in many ways. If required, the pocket square can simply be a plain or patterned square folded to be the sole addition to your jacket. Many contemporary gentlemen have abandoned the neck tie to wear an open-collared shirt and a pocket square in their suit jacket. There are other accessories that can match a pocket square rather well.

A pocket square clip or holder can be an addition to support the pocket square, ensuring that the cloth does not slip down the pocket to reduce impact or get lost for the rest of the day. This hidden accessory works very well with silk, smoother fabrics, or even smaller pocket squares to ensure the fold continues to stand out in all of its glory.

Braces

This combination of accessories is acceptable. Quite often, both pocket square and braces won’t be seen at the same time seeing as one is under the coat and the other on the outside. However, both must be used in coordination with the tie, assuming a tie is worn. For this reason, the material and pattern of each must be chosen to compliment the tie.

Boutonniere

Many of those in fashion find this accessory to be incompatible with the pocket square. Choose wisely when it comes to selecting a boutonniere. The two accessories are meant to complement each other, not for one to become dominant over the other. Any lapel decoration is acceptable, given the situation. A more humble lapel pin will lend itself well to a pocket square. The overly large and attention-seeking boutonniere may create an unbalanced look for the ensemble.

Ascot and Cravat

Unlike the necktie, the ascot and the cravat play by different rules. It is enforced with a tie that under no circumstance should the pocket square match. With a cravat or an ascot on the other hand, a bit of forgiveness can be given. A tie and a pocket square are meant to bring the ensemble together. With the ascot and cravat on the other hand, the garment is made to be the feature item. There is no harm in using a matched pocket square to reinforce the dominance of this accessory. 

Necktie and Bow Tie

This can never be stressed enough; a pocket square should match neither necktie or bow tie. This is non-negotiable. The two items are meant to compliment the attire as a whole, not be part of the main event. These are independent, humble, and genteel pieces of clothing. They are not made to become a matching spotlight and beacon of laziness. Wearing the two garments together is meant to show off your creativity and skill in coordination. If you haven’t either, it’s acceptable to find counsel in a trusted eye of design. 

A Final Thought.

Every gentleman makes their own style. Every gentleman is; a good man or a scoundrel, a husband or a bachelor, a leader or a follower. Every gentleman wakes up in the morning and puts one leg in each leg of their trouser. Every gentleman has made good decisions, bad decisions, neutral decisions. Every gentleman carries the weight of their success and failure, joy and regret. 

The pocket square is a reflection of you, as a gentleman. It is your opportunity to broadcast how serious or funny you wish to be with the world. It is your opportunity to show a small little sign for others, giving up a signal to all whom you may encounter, to let them know. They need to know, without doubt, the gentleman that you are on that day. The square, the colour, the pattern, and the fold will give that message.

Send that message with vigour.