Pocket Squares: How to Fold & Wear Them

The pocket square, or handkerchief as it used to be called, has become a symbol of well-dressed men all around the world. Regardless if you wear it with a full suit or a just a blazer, the pocket square will surely add a certain touch of sophistication to your look.

Rule #1: Your pocket square should compliment the colors of your tie, but not match the exact color.

Avoid this:

(fashionbeans)

One Peak/Point Fold

1. Lay your pocket square flat with one corner pointing up and another pointing down.

2. Fold the bottom corner up onto the top corner.

3. Fold the left corner to the center.

4. Just like in step 3,  fold the right corner to the center.

When to wear: Business or casual

Difficulty level: Easy

Fabrics: Cotton or linen

Two Peak/Point Fold

1. Lay your pocket square flat.

2. Fold one side over so it creates a triangle. To create the two separate points at the top, it’s important the two corners do not align.

3. Fold the left side towards the right, and then the right corner towards the left corner.

When to wear: Business or Casual

Difficulty level: Advanced

Fabrics: Cotton or linen

Three Peak/Point Fold

1. Lay your pocket square flat with one corner facing up and one corner facing down.

2. Fold the bottom corner up (as step #2 in Two Peak Fold) so the corners are close, but do not align.

3. Now it’s time to create the third tip: fold the left corner towards the right and towards the “middle peak”.

4. Then fold the right bottom corner straight across to the left corner.

When to wear: Business or Casual

Difficulty level: Advanced

Fabrics: Cotton or linen

Presidential/Square fold

1. Lay the pocket square flat.

2. Fold the pocket square in half.

3. Fold the left side over the right side.

4. Fold the bottom part up; how much you will fold depends on how deep your jacket pocket is.

When to wear: Formal or casual

Difficulty level: Easy

Fabrics: Cotton or linen

The Puff Fold

1. Lay your pocket square flat with with the two top corners horizontal.

2. Pinch the middle of the pocket square and pick it up.

3. Lightly grasp the pocket square with your other hand, near to where you are holding it.

4. Slide the pocket square through your hand - don’t worry, it might take a couple of tries to get this right.

5. Now pouf up the part between your hands so it creates an inflated shape.

6. Flip it upside down. Make sure it looks natural when putting it in your breast pocket.

When to wear: Casual

Difficulty level: Easy

Fabrics: Cotton, linen, silk

 Get your made to measure suit or blazer with , and don't forget to check out our selection of ties and pocket squares!

What is your favorite pocket square pattern? 

(Copyright images: theidleman & thepoochtimes)