Pocket Squares: The Ultimate Guide to Getting It Right



They say it's the little details that make all the difference, and when it comes to defining men's fashion, pocket squares are an indispensable on-trend tool that can really define your style - if you get it right. But what colour should you choose? How can you go about making it appear not so stuffy, but stylishly nonchalant? Should it always match your tie? Below, we answer all these questions and more.

Be creative

It's never an exact science when choosing your pocket square, with no one formula to help you achieve the desired look. Unless you're at a formal occasion or wedding, you'll probably want to choose a pocket square that complements, rather than exactly matches, your tie. Your pocket square should add to your overall look, but as for which colours you go for, you can be as artistic as you like - as long as you don't go for completely different colours which may clash and appear garish.

Colours and textures

Of course, classic white is always an option, but these days gentlemen are opting to mix it up a little with a variety of coloured, textured and patterned pocket squares. You can literally choose anything from stripes to tartan or even polka dots; the world's your oyster. Chambray is one of the most versatile pocket squares you can own, as it goes with suits from grey to navy and has a certain effortless cool.

Learn to fold

Now that you've selected your style, it's time to learn how to fold your pocket square correctly. Begin by folding it in half, making no effort to square up the edges. Fold in half again, and once more so that you have the shape of a rectangle, before fanning out the edges so they are easily visible. Now, simply place it into your pocket with around half an inch to an inch showing. Feel free to tweak until it looks perfect.

An excellent video tutorial is here.

Finally, if you find your pocket square is bulging in your pocket, try a larger pocket, or a smaller square. Of course, feel free to break this rule and express your style!