The pocket square is a secret weapon of an accessory. Worn well, it brings balance to an outfit, adds interest, and – if you so desire – creates a memorable impression. Historically reserved for only formal occasions, the decorative detail has long been a symbol of style and elegance.
Today, whether it’s worn with a suit jacket or a blazer, the pocket square is an essential part of any well-dressed man’s wardrobe. How you sport one is up to you. The colour, pattern, material, and how you fold it (or ‘puff’ it, as the case may be), are all up for grabs – this is an accessory that invites creativity and self-expression.
Some of the most popular folds include the classic square fold, one-point or three-point fold and the flamboyant puff fold. Discover the techniques needed to achieve each fold with our handy guide below.
The Classic Square Fold
Step 1: Lay the Pocket Square Flat
Start by laying the pocket square flat on a clean surface. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases to ensure a neat and crisp fold.
Step 2: Fold in Half
Take the pocket square and fold it in half to create a rectangle. Make sure the edges are aligned perfectly to maintain symmetry.
Step 3: Fold in Half Again
Next, fold the pocket square in half again, this time bringing the bottom edge up to meet the top edge. You should now have a smaller square shape.
Step 4: Fold the Sides In
Take each side of the square and fold them towards the center, creating a narrower rectangle. Ensure that the edges are aligned to maintain a clean look.
Step 5: Adjust the Width
Depending on the width of your pocket, you may need to adjust the width of the folded pocket square. The goal is to have it fit comfortably in your pocket without bulging or being too tight.
Step 6: Insert into Your Pocket
Once you have achieved the desired width, carefully insert the folded pocket square into your jacket pocket. Adjust as needed to ensure the square is evenly displayed with a subtle peek of the fabric.
The One-Point Fold
Step 1: Lay the Pocket Square Flat
Start by laying your pocket square flat on a clean surface. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases to ensure a neat and polished look once folded.
Step 2: Fold in Half Diagonally
Take one corner of the pocket square and fold it towards the opposite corner to create a triangle shape. Make sure the edges align perfectly to achieve a symmetrical fold.
Step 3: Fold the Bottom Corner Up
Next, take the bottom corner of the triangle and fold it up towards the top corner. This will create a smaller triangle with a single point at the top.
Step 4: Adjust the Width
Before placing the pocket square in your jacket pocket, adjust the width of the fold to ensure it fits perfectly. The width will depend on the size of your pocket and personal preference.
Step 5: Insert into Your Pocket
Once you have achieved the desired width, carefully insert the folded pocket square into your jacket pocket. Make sure the single point is facing upwards and is neatly displayed for a polished finish.
The Three-Point Fold
Step 1: Start with a Flat Surface
Begin by laying your pocket square on a flat surface. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases to ensure a clean and polished look once folded.
Step 2: Create Two Diagonal Folds
Take the pocket square and fold it in half diagonally to form a triangle. Then, fold the bottom left corner up to meet the top point, creating a smaller triangle within the larger one.
Step 3: Fold the Right Side
Next, fold the right side of the triangle over to the left, creating a single point on the right side. This will form the first of the three points in the fold.
Step 4: Fold the Left Side
Similarly, fold the left side of the triangle over to the right, aligning it with the existing point on the right side. This will create the second point of the three-point fold.
Step 5: Adjust and Insert
Once you have the three points formed, adjust the pocket square as needed to ensure the points are sharp and even. Finally, insert the folded pocket square into your jacket pocket with the points facing up for a polished finish.
The Puff Fold
Step 1: Lay the Pocket Square Flat
Start by laying the pocket square flat on the surface in front of you. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases to ensure a neat final look.
Step 2: Pinch the Center
Next, pinch the center of the pocket square with your thumb and forefinger. Lift it up, allowing the fabric to drape naturally.
Step 3: Form the Puff
Gently gather the fabric at the base of the pinched center to create a puff shape. Adjust the width of the puff according to your preference, keeping it balanced and symmetrical.
Step 4: Secure the Base
Once you're satisfied with the puff, use your other hand to gather the fabric at the base. Hold it firmly to maintain the shape of the puff while you adjust the height.
Step 5: Adjust and Insert
Fine-tune the puff by adjusting the height and width as needed. Once you're happy with the look, carefully insert the pocket square into your jacket pocket, ensuring the puff is facing outward for a stylish finish.
Tips for a Flawless Fold
1. Use a high-quality fabric pocket square for a luxurious look.
2. Iron the pocket square before folding to ensure crisp edges.
3. Adjust the height of the fold based on the depth of your pocket.
4. Experiment with different folds to find your signature style.
Our exquisite silk pocket squares come in an impressive range of colours, in classic plain and patterned designs. Made from the finest silk, our squares are traditionally crafted with hand-rolled hems for a superior finish – a mark of the highest quality. Whether you want to add a subtle accent to an outfit or create a striking colour contrast, our pocket squares will lend a distinctive edge.
Discover our range of pocket squares here.