How to Wear a Pocket Square: Pocket Square Rules and Etiquette

Pocket squares date back to menswear in the early 1920s, and their popularity has only grown in recent decades. There are now countless ways to wear a pocket square, each with its unique look. 

A pocket square is a perfect addition to any outfit and can take your style up a notch. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or just want to look sharp every day, a pocket square is a must-have. 

In this guide, we’ll go over everything you need to know about pocket squares: from the different types of folds to match them with your outfit and how to wear a pocket square!

So read on for all you need to know about pocket squares!

Different Pocket Square Styles

A pocket square is a perfect accessory for achieving a polished and put-together look. There are many different styles of pocket squares, each with its unique features and benefits.

Some popular styles of pocket squares include classic, ruffled, and pointed. Classic pocket squares are simple and elegant, making them excellent for formal occasions. Ruffled pocket squares add a touch of fun and whimsy to an outfit, while pointed pocket squares are sleek and modern.

Pocket Square Rules and Etiquette

Although often overlooked, the pocket square is a key component of any well-dressed man’s wardrobe. It adds a touch of style and personality, but it can also be used to signal your intentions or convey a message.

Sadly, there are no hard and fast rules for pocket squares. However, there are some general guidelines that you can follow to ensure that you’re making the best possible impression.

Here are a few tips on following pocket square rules and etiquette:

• Tip #1: Stick to classic colors and patterns. Solid colors are always safe, but if you want to add a bit of pattern, go for something subtle like stripes or polka dots. Avoid anything too loud or busy.
• Tip #2: Make sure the pocket square matches the rest of your outfit. The color should complement your tie and shirt, and the material should match your suit.
• Tip #3: Don’t be afraid to experiment. A pocket square is a great way to add a personal touch to your look. Have fun with it and see what works best for you.
• Tip #4: Pay attention to the occasion. A pocket square can be a powerful tool, but it’s important to use it appropriately. For example, a white linen square is perfect for a summer wedding, but it would be inappropriate at a formal business meeting.
• Tip #5 Keep it simple. A pocket square should add to your look, not overpower it. Resist the temptation to stuff it full of tricks or folds, and instead focus on keeping it clean and classic.

If you’re looking to add a touch of sophistication, personality, and style to your wardrobe, then the pocket square is an essential piece that you simply can’t overlook. So embrace it, experiment with different colors and patterns, and have fun with this timeless accessory!

Most Common Pocket Square Sizes

There are a few different pocket square sizes that are most common: standard, jumbo and common size. 

• Standard size pocket squares typically are around 10 inches by 10 inches. This size is large enough to fill most pockets but not so large that it will bulge or look out of place.
• Jumbo size pocket squares usually are around 12 inches by 12 inches. This size is great for larger pockets or if you want to make a statement with your pocket square.
• Mini pocket squares typically are around 6 inches by 6 inches. This size is perfect for smaller pockets or if you want a more subtle look.

How to Choose the Color and Fabric of the Pocket Squares?

Combining colors is an essential key to having an elegant and classy outfit. This is an important principle in choosing your pocket square. It is also crucial to take into account your skin color and hair. The goal is to highlight your facial features. So, in this context, the pocket squares can be an elegant accessory and effective.

A pocket square should be discreet, as it is not the main element of your outfit. It is an additional element. If you want to look simple and elegant at the same time, you need to master the art of combining colors. 

The easiest way to match colors is to know and use the color wheel, composed of primary, secondary, and tertiary colors. 

• The primary colors: red, blue, yellow. As you know, these are the basic colors that cannot be reproduced by mixing other colors. Primary colors are very bright, so choose red, blue, or yellow suit pocket squares if you want to attract attention. These colors look great against darker backgrounds!
• The secondary colors: green, purple, orange. Thanks to a mixture of primary colors between them, we obtain these complementary colors. They are perfect for attracting attention and making a classy and elegant statement.
• The tertiary colors: vermilion (red-orange), teal (blue-green), amber (yellow-orange), chartreuse (yellow-green), violet (blue-purple), magenta (red-purple). We can obtain these six colors by mixing a primary color with a secondary color. The tertiary colors are full-fledged in terms of choice for your suit pocket. 

The color wheel is used to develop color combinations. In general, the greater the distance between colors within the wheel, the more difficult it will be to use them together harmoniously.

Remember that the color of your outfit should match your skin tone for maximum effect. If you have fair skin and dark hair, you should use high contrast colors. If you have light skin and hair, use low contrast colors like monochromatic outfits.

Remember: 

• The white suit pocket is classic and always elegant. It goes everywhere and is easy to match.
• Offering a balance of warm and cool colors, the triadic colored suit pocket sqaure is perfect for adding character to your look.
• Use adjacent color combinations to give your outfit a specific feel! For example, orange, yellow, and amber. Combine two or more warm (or cooler) colors for an impressive final result!
• Combine different shades of the same color for a safe and subtle contrast, for example, white with beige! 

How to Choose the Right Fabric for Pocket Squares

The choice of fabric for suit pockets requires a lot of attention. Silk, cotton, polyester, and linen are the most commonly used fabrics, but wool and polyester pocket squares are also used. 

Each fabric is unique. It meets a particular demand, and this will determine your final look. The first thing to focus on is the texture of the material. The elements of your outfit should be both matching and coordinated, yet they should have their character. You should therefore aim for a reasonably contrasting but harmonious result. 

So, if you wear a smooth, narrow tie, choose a suit pocket made of a slightly rougher fabric such as cotton or wool.

Conversely, if your tie is made of a thick and/or textured fabric, opt for an elegant silk suit pocket. This also applies to jackets and shirts.

So, to sum up, here are the top pocket square colors and styles every trendy man should have: 

Most Common Pocket Square Colors

• Black Pocket Squares
• White Pocket Squares
• Grey Pocket Squares
• Red Pocket Squares
• Brown Pocket Squares
• Navy Pocket Squares
• Blue Pocket Squares
• Light Blue Pocket Squares
• Yellow Pocket Squares
• Green Pocket Squares
  

Most Common Pocket Square Styles

• Classic Pocket Squares
• Polka Dot Pocket Squares 
• Patterned Pocket Squares
• Checkered Pocket Squares

How to Fold a Pocket Square: Examples and Illustrations 

Whether you’re looking for a simple, understated look or want to add some personality and flair to your outfit, there are many different ways to fold a pocket square. Experiment with different colors, patterns, and styles until you find the perfect fit for your style! 

There are many different pocket square styles to choose from. If you want to learn how to fold a pocket square, here are some of the most popular, including the following:

The Classic Fold

To fold a pocket square using this method, start by laying the square flat on top of a flat surface. Then, fold each corner towards the center, creating a small triangle shape. Next, roll the triangle up from bottom to top until it forms a long cylinder shape. Finally, tuck one end of the rolled triangle into your front jacket or shirt pocket, sticking out the other end.

The Puff Fold

This is a more dramatic look that adds a bit of flair to your outfit. It is created by folding the pocket square into a small rectangle and puffing it up in the middle.

The Rolled Edge Fold

This fold creates a crisp, clean look perfect for formal occasions. To create this fold, simply roll up the pocket square’s edges and tuck it into your pocket.

The Presidential Fold

This is a classic fold named after how many United States presidents have worn their pocket squares. To create this look, fold the pocket square into a triangle and then tuck it into your pocket so that the point sticks out.

The Three-Point Fold

This more complex fold creates a dramatic, three-dimensional look. To create this fold, start with a triangle fold and then tuck in the two corners so that they meet in the middle.

Everything you should Know about Pocket Squares 

What is a pocket square?

A pocket square is a small piece of fabric that can be worn in the breast pocket of a suit or sports coat. Pocket squares come in various colors, patterns, and materials and can match the tie or shirt worn with the suit or sports coat. In addition to suits and sports coats, pocket squares are often worn with blazers and odd jackets.

How to use a pocket square?

A pocket square is a great accessory to add a touch of style to your outfit. It can be used for many different looks and occasions, whether you are going to the office or attending an event. Pocket Square is generally used for decorative purposes and can wipe away sweat or other moisture.

How to put a handkerchief in a suit pocket?

Handkerchiefs are a great way to add a touch of style and personality to your suit pocket. But how do you go about folding and inserting a handkerchief into your pocket? Here are some tips:

1. Choose a handkerchief that is the right size for your suit pocket. You don’t want to use a too small or a too large handkerchief as this will look awkward.
2. Fold the handkerchief into quarters so that all edges meet in the middle. You can make it smaller if you wish or leave it folded like this if you want it to be more prominent and visible.
3. Take the handkerchief and carefully put it into your suit pocket. Just make sure that you have folded the corners, so they don’t stick out of your pocket.

Why do suits have pocket squares?

A pocket square is a small, decorative piece of fabric typically worn in the breast pocket of a suit jacket. They have been a popular accessory for centuries and are now commonly seen as an essential element of men’s style. But why do suits have this type of accent, and what purpose does it serve?

Pocket squares are purely decorative. They serve no functional purpose and are not meant to be used as a handkerchief or anything else. Pocket squares are simply there to add a touch of style and flair to an outfit.

What is the handkerchief in a men’s suit pocket called?

The suit handkerchief is called a pocket square. It is typically used for wiping one’s face or hands and can also be used as a decoration. Pocket squares come in many different colors and patterns and can be made from various materials such as silk, cotton, or linen.

Can I wear a pocket square without a tie?

Yes, you can wear a pocket square without a tie. In fact, many men find that a pocket square looks great without a tie, and it can add a touch of style and sophistication to your look.

Does a white pocket square go with everything?

There is no hard and fast rule about what color pocket square goes with which shirt or suit. Some men prefer to stick with white, while others choose to mix and match different colors and patterns.

How to care for a pocket square?

When it comes to caring for your pocket square, there are a few important things to consider.

• First, it is always a good idea to wash your pocket square before the first time that you wear it. This will help remove any sizing or chemicals that might have been used during manufacturing.
• You should also wash your pocket square periodically, depending on how often you use it.
• Although some people choose to dry clean their pocket squares, this is not strictly necessary and can be expensive. Instead, you can simply wash your pocket square by hand in cold water and then hang it to dry.

If you want to keep your pocket square looking its best, you must avoid using bleach or any harsh detergents.

How to iron a silk pocket square?

First of all, make sure that your pocket square is made of silk. You don’t want to damage the fabric by using too much heat.

To iron a silk pocket square, start by misting it with water. Then, lay the pocket square flat on an ironing board and cover it with a damp cloth. Use a low iron setting and gently press the pocket square until you are satisfied with the results.

Once your pocket square is dry, you can fold it and tuck it into your pocket for a stylish finishing touch. Be sure to handle it carefully, as silk can easily be damaged or stained if not appropriately treated.