It is an accessory that gives a dashing look. With a pocket square, you look dapper and draw attention to your outfit.
Often, pocket squares are formed using silk handkerchiefs but if silk is not an option, fine-spun cotton or linen will do the job.
Types
There is no singular fold you must conform to but here is a selection of popular choices:
Multipoint fold
This is a beautiful, decorative fold that should be reserved for the most elegant of occasions. Fold the square roughly in half along the diagonal so the points do not quite meet. Pull the two ends up and over, far enough to make four points. Fold the edges in to match the width of your pocket. Pull up the bottom and tuck into the jacket pocket.
Square fold
Here, the square peeks no more than half an inch. Do not be tempted to simply fold into quarters; it will not slip neatly into your pocket. According to www.guystyleguide.com, lay your square flat on the table and fold the square over to the right. Fold over to the left ensuring the resultant rectangle is the same width of your jacket pocket. Fold the bottom up three quarters of the length of the design to add stability. Tuck into the breast pocket leaving half an inch exposed.
Point fold
Always fold the bottom up three quarters of the length for added rigidity. Fold your square into quarters. Position the square so it appears diamond-shaped and fold the left and right corners into the centre. Fold the bottom up three quarters of the length of the design to add stability. Tuck into the pocket exposing the top half of the design.
The clean edge fold
This is the cleanest way to display your pocket square. Fold it in thirds, and then in half, and place in your pocket, clean edge up.
Rolled hem fold
If you fold your pocket square like the basic clean edge, just insert it in your pocket clean edge first, letting the rolled hem peek out over the pocket.
Poofy poof fold
Gather and bunch the pocket square from the middle and it will create this mountain of fabric. Then stuff in your pocket, leaving the peak sticking out.
Inverted poofy poof fold
You take the peak of the mountain that formed when you gathered the pocket square from the middle, and stuff it inside your pocket first. This leaves the edges haphazardly formed and spilling out of your pocket. Want to show off a bit? Leave more out.
DON'T FORGET
• Never match your pocket square to your suit or tie colour. Rather, get an accent colour, using a secondary tone on your outfit as a base. Use your socks or necktie as a starting point but do not find a match too exacting.
• If you are sold on patterns, you will need to use the same discerning eye as with colour. Choose designs that complement, but do not exactly match, your outfit.
• Make sure your pocket square is clean and freshly laundered.
