HOW TO FOLD A POCKET SQUARE

A pocket square is the final flourish that completes your formal outfits. It's a refined accessory that brings colour and character to everything from wedding day ensembles to weekday waistcoats. However, pocket square folding is not simply a case of putting a hanky in your top pocket and claiming extra style points. A well-put-together gent knows the difference between his One-points and his Reverse Puffs. In other words, the ins and outs of how to fold a pocket square correctly are an art. Here's our guide to getting your folds right.

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The Square Pocket Square

In a rush? Square folding is generally considered to be the quickest and easiest option. Also known as the presidential fold, or the flat fold, here's the most straightforward answer to how to wear a pocket square:

STEP 1

Fold your pocket square in half twice, so you end up with a smaller square

STEP 2

Fold it in half again, point to point, so it forms a neat triangle

STEP 3

Fold in the two long opposite points on the triangle

STEP 4

Tuck the pointed end into your top pocket, with the folds to the back, so only the straight edge shows. The resulting flat-topped look is sometimes referred to as a presidential pocket square

The One-Point Pocket Square

This is a variation on the square pocket square. Unlike square folds, however, you start by popping it in the other way up. This is generally how to fold a pocket square for a wedding suit , although it works equally as well for other formal attire – or even a casual blazer :

STEP 1

Fold your square in half twice, ending with a smaller square

STEP 2

Fold this in half again, point to point, to form a triangle

STEP 3

Fold in the two opposite points on the triangle

STEP 4

Tuck the flat end into your top pocket, with the folds facing in, so the pointed top can be seen

The Two-Point Pocket Square

Two-point folds represent a widely accepted approach for working professionals. Where the one-point fold suggests a more relaxed, business-casual style, this structured style has more of a business-like appearance (perfect for matching with more formal ties ):

STEP 1

Fold your pocket square in half – twice – to form a smaller square

STEP 2

Lay it on a flat surface, in a diamond rather than a square shape

STEP 3

Fold the bottom corner up so it sits to the left of the top corner, forming what looks like two mountain peaks

STEP 4

Fold the left side and the right side in towards the middle. Tuck the straight end into your breast pocket so the peaks are on display

The Puff Pocket Square

There's more to this laid-back style than simply fluffing up a handkerchief and arranging it in your pocket. It works well with supple silk pocket squares: