How to Fold a Pocket Square: Classic and Modern Techniques ?

 

The pocket square is one of the most timeless and versatile accessories in a man’s wardrobe. It is a small detail that can make a big difference, adding personality and polish to suits and jackets. Whether you’re attending a wedding, a formal dinner, or even a casual business event, mastering the art of folding a pocket square will set you apart as someone with a keen eye for style. This guide will take you through both classic and modern techniques for folding your pocket squares, ensuring you know how to enhance your look for any occasion.

When paired with pocket squares and ties, a well-folded pocket square adds an extra dimension to your outfit, completing the ensemble with an effortless touch of class. Let’s explore some of the most popular folding techniques to help you elevate your sartorial game.

The Classic Techniques

Classic pocket square folds are understated yet elegant, perfect for formal and semi-formal settings. These timeless folds are ideal when wearing bow tie and pocket square sets or for occasions like weddings, where accessories like the black floral tie and pocket square add a refined finish.

1. The Presidential Fold (Square Fold)

The Presidential Fold is the simplest and most formal of all pocket square folds. It’s a clean, no-fuss look, often seen at business meetings and black-tie events. The fold creates a sharp rectangle, where only the very top edge of the pocket square is visible.

How to fold:

1. Lay the pocket square flat.
2. Fold it in half from left to right.
3. Fold the bottom upwards, creating a rectangle that fits the size of your breast pocket.
4. Place it into the pocket so that only a small horizontal strip is visible.

This fold is perfect when paired with a black floral tie and pocket square set for a formal occasion, like a gala or wedding. Its neat, understated look is the epitome of elegance.

2. The Puff Fold

For a more relaxed yet still classic look, the Puff Fold is a great choice. This fold creates a soft, rounded appearance that works well with casual and semi-formal attire. It’s less structured than the Presidential Fold, giving off a more approachable vibe.

How to fold:

1. Lay the pocket square flat and pinch it in the center.
2. Lift the pocket square by the pinched center, allowing the edges to drape naturally.
3. Gather the fabric at the base.
4. Tuck the gathered base into your pocket, leaving the puffed top exposed.

The Puff Fold pairs well with bow tie and pocket square sets, offering a softer complement to the sharper angles of the bow tie. This fold is ideal for cocktail parties, semi-formal dinners, and even more casual weddings.

The Modern Techniques

As men’s fashion evolves, modern folding techniques have emerged to bring a fresh take on this traditional accessory. These folds are bolder and more experimental, making them perfect for adding a stylish twist to your attire. Modern folds are ideal for creative settings, where you can mix and match colors and patterns, especially for wedding parties where wedding party pocket squares come into play.

3. The One-Point Fold

The One-Point Fold is a sleek, modern variation of the classic Square Fold. This fold forms a sharp point, giving a more angular and edgy appearance. It’s a subtle upgrade from the Presidential Fold, making it ideal for business settings where you want to convey professionalism with a hint of creativity.

How to fold:

1. Lay the pocket square flat.
2. Fold it in half diagonally to form a triangle.
3. Fold the two side points inward, creating a shape that fits your pocket.
4. Place it in your pocket with the pointed edge sticking out.

This technique is excellent for pairing with pocket squares and ties that have bold patterns or colors. The One-Point Fold works particularly well with black floral tie and pocket square sets, adding an artistic edge to an otherwise formal outfit.

4. The Three-Point Fold

For a more elaborate look, the Three-Point Fold offers a stylish take on the pointed fold technique. This fold is for the gentleman who isn’t afraid to stand out and add a bit of flair to his outfit. It’s perfect for special occasions, such as weddings, where wedding party pocket squares play a key role in the overall look.

How to fold:

1. Lay the pocket square flat.
2. Fold it diagonally to form a triangle.
3. Fold one of the corners across, but slightly off-center, creating two overlapping points.
4. Fold the other corner across the first two, creating three visible points.
5. Adjust the sides and tuck it into your pocket with the three points facing upward.

The Three-Point Fold works best with bow tie and pocket square sets for wedding parties, where matching patterns and colors bring the whole look together.

Coordinating Pocket Squares and Ties

Matching your pocket squares and ties can make or break your overall look. While there’s no strict rule that your tie and pocket square need to match exactly, they should complement each other. For instance, when using bow tie and pocket square sets, make sure the colors and patterns are harmonious without being overly matchy-matchy.

For a formal event, consider a black floral tie and pocket square combination. The floral pattern adds texture and interest to your outfit while maintaining an elegant aesthetic. This combination is particularly effective for wedding parties, where wedding party pocket squares can be matched to the groomsmen’s ties, creating a cohesive look for the entire group.

Pocket Square Etiquette for Special Occasions

Pocket squares are often associated with formal events like weddings, and it’s crucial to follow some basic guidelines when attending such occasions. When selecting wedding party pocket squares, choose colors and patterns that complement the overall theme of the wedding. Neutral tones and floral patterns are popular choices for weddings, as they add a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the outfit.

For example, pairing a black floral tie and pocket square with a dark suit creates a sleek, polished look perfect for a wedding. For outdoor or daytime weddings, opt for lighter colors and simpler folds, such as the Puff Fold, to keep things breezy and elegant.

Conclusion: Mastering the Art of Pocket Square Folding

Whether you’re dressing for a formal wedding or a casual business lunch, a well-folded pocket square is the ultimate accessory to elevate your look. From classic techniques like the Presidential Fold and the Puff Fold to modern twists like the One-Point and Three-Point Folds, there’s a fold for every occasion and style preference.

When coordinating pocket squares and ties, always consider the overall theme and formality of the event. A matching bow tie and pocket square set can create a cohesive look, while a contrasting pocket square can add a pop of color and personality. For weddings, wedding party pocket squares play an essential role in unifying the look of the groom and groomsmen, and the right fold can add that final touch of elegance.

Incorporating the right fold with the right set of pocket squares and ties will ensure you stand out with sophistication and style, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re wearing a black floral tie and pocket square for a formal event or a simple white pocket square for a business meeting, you’ll always exude confidence and class.