You can turn nearly any outfit into a sophisticated ensemble with a well-chosen pocket square.
This small, seemingly insignificant accessory takes men’s suits to the next level and adds a pop of personality to any look.
Whether you’re getting ready for a formal event or a casual outing, understanding when and how to wear pocket squares makes all the difference in your style game.
So, when should you wear a pocket square? Read on to find out!
Formal Affairs
Weddings, galas, and black-tie events provide the perfect canvas for showcasing your pocket square skills.
Stick with classic materials like silk or fine cotton in subtle patterns or solid colours for these occasions.
A crisp white pocket square with a simple straight fold is always a safe, sophisticated choice for formal wear.
Alternatively, coordinate your pocket square with other outfit elements—such as your tie or cummerbund—for a cohesive look.
Consider a white silk pocket square with a presidential fold for timeless elegance at black-tie events.
Business Settings
Pocket squares can add a refined touch to your work attire, too.
When wearing men’s sport coats to the office, choose pocket squares in muted colours or patterns that complement your tie without exactly matching it.
A classic linen pocket square with a TV fold is a versatile option that works well in most business settings.
Try a light blue or pale pink pocket square with a subtle pattern to add interest to a navy or charcoal suit.
Semi-Formal Occasions
Semi-formal events such as Dinner parties, theatre outings, and upscale restaurant visits call for a slightly more relaxed (yet still polished) appearance.
This is where you can have some fun with your pocket square choices! Experiment with bolder colours, fun patterns, or textured fabrics.
A puff fold or one-point fold adds flair without appearing too casual.
Consider a patterned silk pocket square in jewel tones to give your neutral suit a splash of colour when attending semi-formal events.
Casual Outings
Contrary to popular belief, pocket squares aren’t strictly reserved for formal and semi-formal occasions.
When paired with a sharp blazer or sport coat, a pocket square can level up a casual outfit.
Choose fabrics like cotton or linen in fun prints or bright colours. A casual setting is perfect for trying out more creative folds like the three-point or crown fold.
For a smart-casual look, pair a patterned cotton pocket square with a textured blazer and dark jeans.
Adapting Your Style for Changing Seasons
The time of year can significantly influence your pocket square choices.
Lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen in vibrant colours or floral patterns are perfect for spring and summer.
A linen pocket square in a pastel shade is perfect for spring weddings.
As the weather cools, transition to richer textures like wool or cashmere in deeper, warmer hues.
A burgundy wool pocket square warms winter formal wear and complements the season’s typical colour palette.
Choosing the Right Material
The fabric your pocket square is made of can significantly impact its formality and overall look.
With its rich sheen, silk is best for formal events and business settings.
Cotton is versatile enough for formal and casual occasions and provides a crisp, clean look that’s easy to maintain.
Linen is great for warmer months and casual to semi-formal events. Conversely, wool is ideal for colder seasons.
Mastering the Fold
How you fold your pocket square dramatically alters its appearance and suitability for different occasions.
The presidential fold—a simple, straight fold—is ideal for formal events, offering a clean and classic look.
With its straight edge peeking out of the pocket, the TV fold is a classic look suitable for business settings.
For those wanting to add flair to semi-formal outfits, the one-point fold creates an interesting shape without being too flashy.
The puff fold offers a relaxed style perfect for casual to semi-formal occasions.
And if you want to make a statement, the three-point fold is a more elaborate option that showcases your attention to detail.
Pocket Square Etiquette
While there are no strict rules for wearing pocket squares, there are a few guidelines to help you navigate different situations.
Avoid exactly matching your pocket square to your tie. Instead, aim to complement or contrast it for a more sophisticated look.
Ensure your pocket square is clean and wrinkle-free before wearing, as a crisp appearance is key to looking polished.
Throughout the day, don’t hesitate to adjust your pocket square to maintain its shape and keep your look fresh.
It’s best to stick to classic folds and colours for formal events to show respect for the occasion.
However, feel free to experiment more with casual outfits, and let your personality shine through your choices.
Enhancing Your Personal Style
Pocket squares offer a unique opportunity to express your style and add character to your outfits.
Use your pocket square to tie together different outfit elements and create a cohesive look that showcases your attention to detail.
Mix and match textures and fabrics to give your ensemble some depth. Choose patterns and colours that complement the time of year and the event you’re attending.
For a sophisticated look, try creating a monochromatic ensemble by choosing a pocket square in the same colour family as your suit, but in a different shade or texture.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of wearing pocket squares enhances your style and adds a sophisticated touch to any outfit.
Whether you’re attending a formal gala, heading to a business meeting, or enjoying a casual weekend brunch, there’s always an opportunity to incorporate this versatile accessory into your look.
The key to successfully wearing pocket squares lies in understanding the occasion, choosing complementary colours and patterns, and mastering various folding techniques.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and let your personality shine through your choices.
With practice and confidence, you’ll soon find yourself reaching for the perfect pocket square to pair with every outfit in your wardrobe.
A passionate advocate for inclusivity and diversity, Aidan is the driving force behind The VOU as its Editorial Manager. With a unique blend of editorial acumen and project management prowess, Aidan's insightful articles have graced the pages of The Verge, WWD, Forbes, and WTVOX, reflecting his deep interest in the dynamic intersection of styling with grooming for men and beyond.