The pocket square. A small detail that can make a big impact on your overall look. Whether you're aiming for a sophisticated, playful, or classic style, mastering the art of the pocket square is a crucial step. This guide will walk you through various folds, from the simplest to the more intricate, ensuring you can confidently add this elegant touch to your attire.
Understanding Your Pocket Square Fabric and Size
Before diving into the folds, let's discuss the essentials: your pocket square itself. The fabric and size significantly influence the final look and the suitability of certain folds.
- Fabric: Linen, silk, cotton, and even wool are popular choices. Lighter fabrics like silk tend to drape better for more complex folds, while heavier fabrics like linen work well for simpler, more structured looks.
- Size: A standard pocket square size is around 10-12 inches square. Larger squares offer more flexibility for intricate folds.
Easy Pocket Square Folds for Beginners
If you're just starting, these simple folds are perfect for a clean, polished look without requiring advanced techniques.
The Presidential Fold (also known as the Puff Fold):
This classic fold is effortlessly elegant.
- Lay flat: Place your pocket square face down on a flat surface.
- Fold in half: Fold it in half diagonally to form a triangle.
- Fold again: Fold it in half again, forming a smaller triangle.
- Fold into thirds: Fold the triangle into thirds, tucking the bottom point under slightly.
- Place in pocket: Gently place the folded square into your breast pocket, letting the top edge show slightly.
The Square Fold:
A super simple yet effective option for a minimalist aesthetic.
- Lay flat: Lay your pocket square flat.
- Fold in half: Fold it in half to create a rectangle.
- Fold in half again: Fold it in half again to create a smaller rectangle.
- Place in pocket: Place the folded square in your breast pocket, leaving a small amount visible at the top.
Intermediate Pocket Square Folds: Adding a Touch of Flair
Once you've mastered the basics, you can experiment with these slightly more complex folds to add a touch of personality to your outfit.
The One-Point Fold:
A slightly more casual, yet still refined option.
- Lay flat: Lay your pocket square flat, face down.
- Fold into thirds: Fold the square into thirds, to create a rectangle.
- Fold in half: Fold the rectangle in half.
- Place in pocket: Place the folded square in your pocket, allowing a point to peek out.
The Two-Point Fold:
This fold creates a more visually interesting look. The steps are similar to the one-point fold, but you adjust the final placement to show two points.
Advanced Pocket Square Folds: For the Confident Gent
These folds require a bit more practice but are worth the effort for a truly sophisticated look. Online tutorials with visual demonstrations are highly recommended for these more complex folds. Search for "Crown Fold pocket square" or "TV Fold pocket square" for examples.
Choosing the Right Fold for the Occasion
The key to mastering the pocket square isn't just about the technique, but also about knowing which fold complements your outfit and the occasion.
- Formal Events: The Presidential fold or a crisp, clean square fold works best.
- Business Casual: The One-Point or Two-Point folds offer a more relaxed yet still professional look.
- Casual Occasions: More intricate folds, like the Crown or TV folds, can add a fun and stylish touch to a less formal outfit.
Maintaining Your Pocket Square
To keep your pocket squares looking their best, follow these simple tips:
- Hand wash or dry clean: Depending on the fabric, hand wash in cold water or opt for dry cleaning.
- Ironing: A light iron can help restore crispness.
- Storage: Store your pocket squares flat to prevent creasing.
Mastering the art of the pocket square is a journey, not a race. Start with the basics, gradually progress to more advanced folds, and most importantly, have fun experimenting with different styles to find what best reflects your personal taste. With a little practice, you'll be adding that perfect finishing touch to your outfit in no time.
