With New Years and other holiday functions soon approaching, we take a look at the ever classic pocket square. This classic detail can and will set you apart from your co-workers and friends. Now we don’t want you to think for one moment that pocket squares are only reserved for formal events, in fact, recent trends have transitioned this classic accessory into a fashion forward staple. And as with any fashion trend, it all boils down to your personal taste and what works best for you. So feel free to get a handle using these basics, and when you are more confident, don’t be scared to get more creative. Pocket scarfs, like bow ties, can either be very tame (such as solid colours) or as wild as your imagination. As a result, it’s no surprise that this simple 10 by 10 fabric can be worn in more ways than you can lace up your shoes.
We showcase some of the most popular styles to get you started…
one point pocket scarf
This is your more traditional and common pocket square fold for everyday wear with a conservative or retro-cut suit with a narrow lapel.
Step 1:
Lay your pocket square flat with one corner facing up and one corner facing down.
Step 2:
Fold the bottom corner up to meet the top corner.
Step 3:
Fold the left corner to the right.
Step 4:
Repeat and fold the right corner in to the left.
two point pocket scarf
Much like its counterpart, the One Point fold, this fold is conservative in nature, but brings a bit of intricacy in its appearance…giving this fold some panache.
Step 1:
Lay your pocket square flat with one corner facing up and one corner facing down.
Step 2:
Fold the bottom corner up and just to the left of the top corner.
Step 3:
Fold the left side in towards the right.
Step 4:
Fold the right side in towards the left.
flat pocket square
Simplicity at its finest, this pocket square fold is best paired with a tuxedo jacket of any cut or a black suit worn to a formal occasion.
Step 1:
Lay your pocket square flat with the two top corners horizontal.
Step 2:
Fold the the left side over the right side.
Step 3:
Fold the bottom up just short of the top.
puff pocket square
The wild child out of the group, this pocket square fold will immediately inject some dapperness into your outfit…even on days without a tie.
Step 1:
Lay your pocket square flat with the two top corners horizontal. Pinch the middle of the pocket square and pick it up.
Step 2:
As you pick up the pocket square tuck the sides in as in the diagram.
Step 3:
With one hand firmly holding the pocket square, use your other hand to gently gather it closed.
Step 4:
Now gracefully gather up the bottom of the pocket square. Tuck as needed.
materials
- As silk is soft by nature, it tends to collapse into the pocket, thus for silk pocket squares, use folding techniques that bunch up within the pocket (the Puff Pocket Square).
- Linen and cotton, being stiffer materials maintain the shape they are folded into for a longer time. As such, use them for sharp and well-defined folds (the One & Two Point Pocket Scarf, and the Flat Pocket Square).