How to use a Pocket Square

Welcome to my pocket square folding guide where I am showing you the 5 most basic and classic ways to wear your pocket squares. For those of you who are looking for more eccentric folds,I'll have more blog post on them in the future. If you haven’t tried accessorizing your suit, shirt, and tie with a pocket square then the seven reasons below should be convincing enough to give it a try:

1. A pocket square adds nice color and more live to suit, shirt, and tie.
2. The pocket square is a perfect complement to your necktie.
3. A pocket square instantly adds a touch of sophistication and elegance to your ensemble.
4. Using a pocket square allows you to “dress up” or “dress down” an outfit.
5. Best “bang for buck” accessory! – The pocket square earns you lots of style points for little money.
6. Expand your wardrobe – Wearing a pocket square gives the same suit a different look each day.
7. Last but not least, a pocket square allows you to add more personal style to an otherwise uniform looking outfit.

Fold #1 – Classic, Sleek, & Elegant

This fold, also called “Presidential Fold”, is one of the easiest ways to fold a pocket square. This fold is best for elegant attire ranging from formal business dress to black tie.

Instructions:

1. Lay the pocket square on a flat and clean surface.
2. Fold the pocket square in half.
3. Fold one side up. How much of the pocket square you fold in is depending on how deep your jacket’s pocket is.
4. Tug the folded pocket square into your breast pocket so that about 1/4 of an inch is visible.

Fold #2 – One Tip Up

Another popular way to fold the pocket square is the triangular “one tip up” fold. It suits any type of pocket square and dress code. Personally, I like this fold with a solid colored, non-white, pocket square.

Instructions:

1. Start out by laying the pocket square on a flat surface.
2. Fold one corner in so that you get two overlapping triangles.
3. Fold one side of the triangle in.
4. Do the same on the opposite side.
5. Finally place the pocket square in your jacket’s pocket.

Fold #3 – Unique & Sophisticated

Looking for a somewhat different pocket square fold? Then this fold, sometimes also called “two tips up” fold might be perfect. It suits any pocket square color & pattern. Personally I choose this fold for patterned pocket squares accessorizing a casual-sleek outfit that is rather sophisticated than formal.

Instructions:

1. Place your pocket square on a clean & flat surface.
2. Fold one side over so that you get two triangles that overlap. I prefer the look of having one tip higher than the other (see illustration above).
3. Now fold one side in.
4. Do the same on the opposite side.
5. Place your folded pocket square in your breast pocket and you are already done.

Fold #4 – The Pocket Square Aficionado’s Fold

This type of fold that is sometimes also called “three tips up” or “crown fold” is perfect for patterned and colored pocket squares. Although this fold would suit formal attire, I like it most with when paired with blazer jacket or sports coat.

Instructions:

1. Lay your pocket square on a flat surface.
2. Fold one side in so that you have the look of two triangles – creating two tips.
3. To create the third tip, fold in one side as shown in picture #3 above.
4. This step creates the base which will keep the pocket square in place. Fold in the opposite side and make sure to create a strong fold with the palm of your hand.
5. Place the folded pocket square into your pocket and you are done.

Fold #5 – The Casual Fold

This type of fold, sometimes also called “Puff fold”, is ideal for a more casual-sleek outfit. It looks best when used for patterned pocket squares. I particularly choose this fold for pocket squares that have unique paisley patterns, tartan checks, and polka dots. This fold is less suited for formal attire.

Instructions:

1. Place the pocket square down flat.
2. Now pick up the pocket square by pinching it near the center.
3. Slide the hanky trough your other hand as shown in picture #3.
4. Now flip the pocket square upside down.
5. Finally tug the pocket square in your breast pocket. Don’t over-think this fold, the fold should look casual and a bit uneven.