"Dress for the job you want" or better yet... dress for the level of distinction you deserve.
The final frontier of dressing well for any man is mastering the pocket square. It can be intimidating because it involves color and pattern matching, complicated folding, and unfamiliar fabrics and etiquette.
If you've been wanting to start wearing pocket squares. This is your sign. Keep reading to get the full guide.
Choosing a Pocket Square Color
The first thing you're going to consider when you buy a pocket square is the color. You'll need to choose colors that go well with your wardrobe. It can become overwhelming when you're trying to consider which colors would go best with your clothes especially since you won't want to be too matchy-matchy.
Here are some rules of thumb to follow in order to choose the best pocket square colors for your ensembles.
Color Schemes
The best way to learn to pair colors is to follow color schemes. These are simple ways to put colors together that will always look good.
The first color scheme is a neutral scheme. This is either black or white or a combination of the two. Some tans and browns may also be considered neutrals, but should not be paired with black in most cases.
A monochromatic color scheme is one that uses a single shade throughout the outfit.
Similar to the monochromatic scheme is the adjacent color scheme. This ensemble uses colors that are very close to each other but not exactly the same.
A complementary color scheme and a triadic color scheme all involve choosing complimentary colors from the color wheel. Let's take a look at how to do that.
Complementary Colors
Complementary colors are those that lie directly across from each other on the color wheel. Another way to think of it is pairing primary colors with a secondary color that does not contain the primary color. For example, green and red are complementary colors. Try to choose them in similar intensities and saturations.
You can pair three colors together by choosing three colors that are equidistant from each other on the color wheel. This is a great way to create a larger color scheme for an outfit. You can choose your base color for a suit and then have two colors to choose from for accessories.
If you're going to use a patterned pocket square. Make sure that it includes the colors from your overall scheme, and leave patterns to only one piece of your outfit. If you're wearing a patterned tie, for example, it's best to opt for a solid pocket square. Try to choose a color found in just a splash of the pattern.
Pocket Square Fabrics
When you purchase a pocket square, you'll find that they come in silk, cotton, linen, wool, and polyester. At first glance, you may not think it matters much which fabric you choose, but different fabrics have different pros and cons.
They also don't always look right with other accessories in your outfit. For example, if you're wearing a textured tie, you should contrast it with a smooth pocket square.
Let's look at the options.
Silk
These are one of the more expensive pocket square options, but they also fold so well and are unlikely to bulge out of your pocket. It works for most occasions, but it does require some special care to keep it looking its best.
Cotton
This cheaper pocket square option is particularly good if you want a subtle pocket square. There should only be one focal point in your outfit, so if you are wearing an eyecatching or expensive tie, it's best to wear a cotton understated pocket square.
Linen
This is probably the most versatile pocket square option. However, it still adds interest to the eye by contributing a unique texture to your daily ensemble. Be careful washing it and use good linen care practices.
Wool
Wool is an uncommon but fascinating choice, particularly for the winter months. Plus, there are a number of different kinds of wools to choose from depending on your preference. Be careful that thicker squares don't end up bulging out and that you take precautions against moths while storing them.
Polyester
This is the cheapest kind of pocket square. Many people choose it because of its lack of creasing and its sheen which imitates silk. Just make sure that the sheen doesn't end up looking cheesy in your pocket. Cheaper isn't always better.
Size and Fold
Your pocket square should not be so big that it bulges out of your pocket. It also should not be so small that it presents the danger of falling deeper in. If you choose a new pocket square in a thicker fabric, it should be smaller than thin fabric squares. Consider also that it needs to be big enough for you to have options while folding it.
The three most popular folds are the presidential fold, the peak fold, and the 3 point crown fold.
The presidential fold creates a crisp thin rectangular at the top of your pocket. The peak fold does the same but with a triangle instead. The 3 point crown fold adds an interesting texture with three peaks at the top and can be fluffed out for a less crisp look.
Looking Your Best in a Pocket Square
When you add a pocket square to your outfit, you complete the look and show everyone around you that you have mastered your personal style. Keep in mind appropriate color schemes and don't be afraid to add in a pattern. Have fun with the folds, but make sure that your pocket square is the best fabric and size for the rest of the outfit.
Are you ready to add pocket squares to your wardrobe? See our full collection here.