A pocket square is one of the easiest and most effective ways to add a touch of elegance to any outfit. This small piece of cloth, typically tucked into a suit or jacket pocket, has the power to elevate your look, providing both flair and sophistication. Whether you’re dressing for a formal event or just want to add personality to your daily outfit, understanding the right colors, fabrics, and folding techniques can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll explore the various options for choosing the right pocket square, including its colors, fabrics, and the folding techniques that will help you master this classic accessory.
Understanding Pocket Squares
Before diving into colors and techniques, it’s important to understand what a pocket square is and why it’s such an essential accessory in men’s fashion.
What is a Pocket Square?
A pocket square is a small piece of fabric that is folded and placed into the breast pocket of a jacket or suit. It is typically made from silk, cotton, or linen and serves as a decorative item that adds personality and elegance to your look. Unlike a handkerchief, which is used for practical purposes, a pocket square is purely ornamental, making it an accessory rather than a necessity.
The Importance of Pocket Squares in Style
A pocket square can completely transform an outfit, adding that extra detail that pulls everything together. It offers an easy way to express individuality through color, design, and folding techniques. Whether worn with a tuxedo at a formal event or paired with a casual blazer for a night out, a pocket square adds that perfect finishing touch. It’s a simple accessory that can make a significant impact on how polished and well-put-together your look appears.
Choosing the Right Pocket Square for Your Look
When choosing a pocket square, it’s important to consider both your outfit and personal style. The right pocket square should complement your overall look while adding a touch of personality. A good rule of thumb is to pick one that harmonizes with the colors and patterns of your suit, shirt, and tie. If your outfit is bold and patterned, choose a simpler pocket square. If your look is more subdued, a colorful or patterned pocket square can add interest and a pop of style.
Pocket Square Colors and Their Meanings
The color of your pocket square plays a big role in the message you convey through your outfit. Different colors evoke different feelings and can be appropriate for different occasions.
Classic Colors for Formal Occasions
For formal events like weddings, galas, or business meetings, classic colors are often the best choice. Solid-colored pocket squares in shades such as white, navy, or black radiate elegance and sophistication.
White is the most classic and versatile choice. White pocket squares are timeless, complementing almost any suit, and providing a clean, crisp appearance. Navy pocket squares are ideal for formal occasions, especially when paired with blue or gray suits. They introduce a subtle touch of color without being overly bold. Black pocket squares are typically reserved for very formal events, such as black-tie affairs. When paired with a tuxedo, they deliver a refined and polished look.
Vibrant and Patterned Pocket Squares for Casual Looks
If you’re dressing more casually or want to add an element of fun to a formal outfit, vibrant or patterned pocket squares are a great option. Bright colors and bold patterns help express your personality and introduce a playful twist.
Red and burgundy are rich, bold colors that work well for adding contrast to an outfit. A red pocket square pairs nicely with gray, navy, or black suits. Floral or geometric patterned pocket squares are perfect for casual events or daytime wear. Floral designs, polka dots, or geometric patterns provide a modern twist to a more traditional look. Light pastel colors like pink, lavender, or mint green work beautifully for spring and summer events, adding a soft pop of color without overwhelming the outfit.
Choosing Colors Based on Your Suit
Your pocket square should complement your suit, shirt, and tie. The key is to maintain balance. If you’re wearing a dark suit, a lighter or contrasting pocket square can help create visual interest. On the other hand, if you’re sporting a light suit, a darker pocket square can add depth and contrast. When your suit is patterned, it’s best to choose a solid-colored pocket square to avoid overwhelming the look. If your suit is solid, you can experiment with bolder patterns for the pocket square to create more dimension.
Popular Pocket Square Fabrics
The fabric of your pocket square affects its look, feel, and suitability for different occasions. Different materials have different textures, which can influence the overall style of your outfit.
Silk Pocket Squares for a Luxurious Look
Silk is the go-to fabric for formal events. Its smooth texture and slight sheen give it an elegant and luxurious feel. Silk pocket squares are ideal for black-tie affairs, weddings, or business meetings. Their shiny appearance catches the light and adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
Cotton and Linen for Casual Vibes
For a more relaxed, summer look, cotton and linen are excellent choices. These fabrics are lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for casual events or warm weather. Linen pocket squares have a slightly wrinkled look that adds a laid-back charm, while cotton is a more structured fabric with a crisp finish. Both materials work well for pairing with casual jackets or blazers.
Wool and Velvet for Fall and Winter
In colder months, heavier fabrics like wool and velvet are ideal. Wool pocket squares provide warmth while offering a rich texture that complements darker, heavier fabrics like tweed and wool suits. Velvet pocket squares, with their plush appearance, are perfect for evening events during the fall and winter months.
Folding Techniques for Pocket Squares
The way you fold your pocket square can significantly alter its appearance and the level of formality of your outfit. Here are a few popular folding techniques to help you master this accessory.
The Presidential Fold
This is the most formal and straightforward fold, ideal for business meetings or black-tie events. The Presidential fold involves folding the pocket square into a square and placing it neatly in your pocket so that only a small portion of it is visible at the top.
- How to Fold: Lay the square flat, fold it in half to form a rectangle, then fold it into thirds so it fits neatly into your pocket.
The Puff Fold
For a more relaxed, stylish look, the Puff fold is a great choice. This fold adds a bit of volume and flair to your pocket square, making it a perfect option for casual events or evenings out.
- How to Fold: Pinch the center of the square and gather the fabric together, then fold the edges down and tuck it into your pocket.
The Three-Point Fold
The Three-Point fold creates a sharp, structured look that works well for semi-formal occasions. This fold gives the pocket square a more refined appearance, making it suitable for both casual and formal events.
- How to Fold: Start by folding the square into a triangle, then fold the two sides inward to form three points. Tuck the points into your pocket, allowing the tips to show.
How to Match Pocket Squares with Your Outfit
Matching your pocket square with the rest of your outfit requires careful thought. You want your pocket square to enhance your look without clashing with the rest of your accessories.
Matching Pocket Squares to Your Tie and Shirt
When choosing a pocket square, consider your tie and shirt combination. You want to create harmony between the different elements of your outfit. If your tie is patterned, opt for a solid pocket square, or if your tie is a bold color, a more subdued pocket square will provide balance.
Creating Contrast or Coordination
Depending on the style you’re going for, you can either match or contrast your pocket square with your suit, shirt, and tie. For a more cohesive look, choose a pocket square in a similar color or pattern to your tie. If you want to add some contrast, go for a pocket square in a complementary color or a bold pattern that stands out.
Conclusion
The pocket square is a small accessory that can make a big impact on your overall look. By understanding the different colors, fabrics, and folding techniques, you can easily elevate your outfit and express your personal style. Whether you’re attending a formal event, dressing for a casual day, or simply looking to add some flair to your suit, mastering the art of the pocket square will help you stand out and make a stylish impression.