Pocket squares have been a staple of men’s fashion for centuries. They originated in ancient Egypt, when red linen cloths were worn as a status symbol. These days, they are mostly used for decoration and come in all shapes and sizes. If you’re looking to make your outfit pop with some color, here is what you need to know about the best pocket squares for suits.
What Are Pocket Squares?
Whether you want to match your outfit or just add some flair to the look, this fashion accessory can really make all the difference in how well you dress. In this post we will explore what they are and where they come from as well as go over some of the best styles for suits, shirts and ties so that you never need second guess what goes with what ever again!
Pocket squares are a small, triangular piece of fabric that is folded and placed into the front pocket of a suit jacket or blazer. They come in many different colors and patterns, which makes them a great way to add personality to an outfit.
Handkerchiefs and pocket squares serve different purposes – cotton handkerchiefs are functional items kept out of sight, while pocket squares are decorative accessories for the breast pocket. A helpful rule is “one for show, one for blow”.
History of Pocket Squares
The first pocket squares are believed to have appeared in ancient Egypt, Greece or Rome. King Richard II of England, who reigned from 1377 to 1399 is thought to have popularized cloth handkerchiefs to wipe his nose.
As men’s fashion evolved, so did the use of pocket squares. In the 1930s, they began to be used as a way to add color and personality to an outfit.
Screen icons such as Cary Grant, Fred Astaire and Humphrey Bogart all wore pocket squares regularly. These stylish men’s accessories fell out of fashion from the 1960s until the late 2000s.
Today, pocket squares are enjoying a renaissance, partly thanks to TV shows such as Mad Men. The character of Don Draper is rarely seen without an elegant pocket square. James Bond movies also frequently feature pocket squares, for example in Spectre.
This gold edged pocket square by Sebastian Cruz Couture definitely looks the part!
Types of Pocket Square
Patterned pocket squares add a touch of color to your outfit, so they work best when you already have the dominant colors in the rest of your ensemble taken care of. Lean toward a simple pattern in cool tones such as white, pink, lavender and light blue. For warmer tones, choose patterned pocket squares in bright reds, oranges, yellows and greens.
Popular patterns for pocket squares are paisley, polka dots, floral and nautical motifs.
Monochromatic pocket squares are another way to add color to your outfit. Instead of contrasting colors, these pocket square fabrics share one dominant hue throughout the entire piece of fabric.
They may however have a contrasting color trim. This type of pocket square is best for outfits that are all one color.
No matter what type of pocket square fabrics you choose, make sure that it is wrinkle-free and pressed well. This will help to ensure that your pocket square looks its best when you wear it.
Pocket Square Sizes
Pocket squares come in a variety of sizes, so you’ll need to choose one that will fit comfortably in your pocket. The most common size for pocket squares is 10 inches by 10 inches.
The general rule for pocket squares is that the bigger the square, the more formal the outfit. For a very formal outfit, you might want to go with a pocket square that is 12″ to 16″ on each side. For a less formal outfit, you could go with something in the range of 8″ to 10″.
There are also different shapes that pocket squares can come in. The most common is the square, but there are also circular, triangular and rectangular pocket squares. The more formal your outfit is, the more likely it is that a triangular or rectangular pocket square would be appropriate.
Pocket Square Fabrics
Pocket squares come in different materials such as silk, cotton, linen, and wool. Cotton and linen are both very versatile materials and can be worn with a variety of outfits. They’re also an ideal accessory for capsule wardrobes.
As a general rule of thumb, silk and linen pocket squares are for more formal occasions. These refined pocket squares are typically more expensive than cotton or wool.
Here are some of the most common types of pocket square fabrics and when they are best worn:
1. Silk Pocket Squares
Silk squares are the classic option, and are perfect for dressier occasions. They add a touch of elegance to any business or formal outfit.
2. Cotton Pocket Squares
Cotton pocket squares are great for casual outfits and weekend wear. They also provide an easy way to introduce texture into your outfit.
3. Linen Pocket Squares
Linen pocket squares are the most casual of all the pocket square fabrics, and are ideal for summer wear, especially in hot weather locales. Because linen is so breathable, it feels cool against your skin even when it’s hot outside.
4. Seersucker Pocket Squares
Seersucker pockets squares are great for summertime wear as well, but they have a slightly dressier look. They go particularly well with both seersucker and gingham suits.
5. Wool Pocket Squares
Wool pocket squares work best in cold weather, as wool is a very warm fabric. It’s the best choice for winter and fall wear.
6. Fabric Blend Pocket Squares
Examples of this are cotton silk blends, cotton and linen or wool and mohair. Generally, these pocket squares will be easier to care for than pure silk pocket squares.
Pocket Square Rules
Here are a some important things to know about pocket squares:
- Don’t wear a tie and pocket square with an identical pattern and color. It will look too matchy matchy! Go for a little bit of contrast.
- You should contrast textures – rough suits (like tweed) pair well with smooth silk pocket squares, while fine suits work better with rougher cotton or linen squares.
- Fold the pocket square in a way that showcases your outfit. There are many different ways to fold pocket squares, so choose one that fits your style.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different styles and colors.
- Pocket squares should complement the rest of your look, not dominate it.
- When putting on a jacket, make sure the pocket square is visible. Silk squares should be at least 40cm (16 inches) to prevent slipping down into the pocket.
- Keep it neat. Make sure the edges of the pocket square are straight and the fabric is wrinkle-free.
Find out how to fold pocket squares in our detailed guide.
The Best Pocket Squares for Suits
When choosing a pocket square for your suit, it’s important to consider the color and pattern of the fabric. You want to choose a pocket square that will complement the color of your outfit, not clash with it. Here are a few tips on how to match a pocket square to your suit:
- If you’re wearing a navy blue suit, try pairing it with a white or light blue pocket square.
- If you’re wearing a dark grey suit, try pairing it with a light grey pocket square.
- If you’re wearing a brown suit, try pairing it with an earthy colored pocket square such as olive green or tan.
Pinstripe or check suits usually work best with fairly plain pocket squares. The exception is if you choose colors that match the suit perfectly.
Conversely, patterned pocket squares look great with plain suits. Enhance a navy suit with a stylish accessory such as this lattice geometric pocket square from Italy which comes in two different colors.
Tuxedo Pocket Squares
Pocket squares are a great way to add a touch of personality to your tuxedo. There are a few things to consider when choosing pocket squares for formal events, such as color, size and fabric.
When it comes to color, a black or white pocket square is the most classic option for black tie events. However, you can also choose pocket squares in other colors, depending on your personal style.
There are some things to avoid when choosing pocket squares for a tuxedo. Don’t opt for pocket squares with busy patterns or logos, as they will distract from the elegance of the tuxedo. Also avoid pocket squares that are too large or too small.
With a little bit of thought, you can choose pocket squares that will perfectly complement your tuxedo and help you stand out from the crowd.
Wearing Pocket Squares without a Tie
The pocket square has been associated with neckties for a long time, and wearing pocket squares without a tie was considered to be improper. However, the trend of pocket squares is beginning to shift, and men’s fashion experts are now suggesting that pocket squares can be worn without ties.
Today, pocket squares are regarded as a stylish accessory even when worn without a tie and with a sports jacket. While it may be stylish, there are still some rules to follow so that you don’t come off looking unkempt – particularly since pocket squares aren’t as common as neckties.
When wearing pocket squares without a tie, it is important to make sure that the pocket square flatters the color of your shirt. You also want to make sure that the pocket square is proportional to your body size.
A pocket square that is too small or too large will look out of place. It’s important to make sure the pocket square doesn’t look too bulky in your jacket’s breast pocket.
How to Look After Pocket Squares
If you wear pocket squares in your breast pocket, you know how expensive they can be. Here are some simple steps that will help extend the life of your pocket square.
1. Clean your pocket square using either a gentle hand-wash or dry-clean it. If you must use soap, only use it sparingly and be sure to rinse with cold water. You can also spot wash if needed.
2. Silk pocket squares often don’t need washing if used only decoratively. If attempting to clean silk pocket squares yourself, always use cold water. The heat from the water will ruin the quality of the silk.
3. If you need to iron your pocket square, always use the lowest setting to avoid ruining the silk material. It’s best to place a thin towel on top and to iron over this.
4. When storing pocket squares, put them in a sealed container or plastic bag so that they’ll stay clean and free of dust until you need them again. Many men like to roll their pocket square instead of folding it when putting it away because it minimizes the damage done to the sharp fold crease. Wool pocket squares require special attention due to vulnerability to clothing moths.
5. Use fabric shavers to remove pilling or snags on your pocket square that might have occurred during wear or washing.
Follow these simple tips and your pocket squares will stay looking sharp for many years to come.
In Conclusion: Best Pocket Squares for Suits
Pocket squares have been around for centuries, and they’re still going strong. If you’re looking to take your suit game up a notch or just want to add some style without spending too much time on it, then the pocket square is an excellent way to do that.
They are also great if you need something small but personal enough to give as a gift. There are plenty of colors and patterns available so there’s no excuse not to buy one today! Have any questions about how best to fold them? Let us know in the comments below.
With these tips in mind, you’re ready to start adding some personality to your suiting with a stylish pocket square!
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