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.
SHOP NOWThe 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:
STEP 1
Fold your square in half twice, forming a smaller square
STEP 2
Fold your square in half twice, forming a smaller square
STEP 3
Fold your square in half twice, forming a smaller square
STEP 4
Tuck the rest of the fabric into your pocket, leaving the pinched area visible
The Reverse Puff Pocket Square
This is an upside-down version of the puff. Instead of tucking in the excess fabric, you leave it hanging out for an effortlessly stylish look:
STEP 1
Fold your square in half twice, to form a smaller square
STEP 2
Lay it down on a flat surface
STEP 3
Pinch and lift up the middle of the square. Fold it in half so the peak lies on top of the tail
STEP 4
Slip it into your pocket so both the peak and the tail peep out – just make sure there's enough tucked in to keep it in place