Pocket Squares: The Essential Accessory Guide for Men

Pocket Squares: A Critique on the Essential Accessory for Men

For centuries, men have been using pocket squares as an essential accessory to their outfits. From the aristocrats of 18th-century Europe to modern-day businessmen and fashion enthusiasts, pocket squares have endured the test of time as a symbol of elegance and sophistication.

However, with so many options available in today’s market, choosing the right pocket square can be overwhelming. This critique aims to guide you through the process and help you choose the perfect pocket square for your outfit.

Firstly, let us establish what a pocket square is. A pocket square is a small piece of fabric that is folded and placed inside the breast pocket of a jacket or blazer. Pocket squares come in different shapes, styles, colors, patterns and fabrics that range from silk to cotton.

When selecting a pocket square there are some key factors one should consider such as color coordination, pattern matching or contrasting with your suit/shirt/tie/jacket/pants/sneakers/dress shoes or any other accessories like watches or cufflinks etc., material selection based on seasonality (for example linen for summer months), fold style preference based on occasion/formalities (simple straight fold for business meetings vs more intricate folds for weddings) among others.

Color Coordination:

Choosing the right color scheme is essential when it comes to picking out your perfect accessory. The idea behind coordinating colours is simple – complementing rather than clashing tones will create an elegant look that ties together all elements of your outfit effortlessly.

If you’re wearing a navy blue suit then white or light blue shades would work well with this classic colour tone.However if you’re feeling bold then brighter colours like yellow could be paired with navy too! Similarly if you’re wearing black then white works well but also pastel shades like pink would offer contrast without being too bold!

Pattern Matching/Contrasting:

If done correctly pattern matching or contrasting can be a great way to add some depth and character to your outfit! A good rule of thumb is that if you’re wearing a patterned shirt then the pocket square should be plain in colour while if your shirt is plain, then opt for a patterned pocket square.

In terms of contrast, it’s all about balance – you don’t want your accessories to clash but rather add interest and dimension. So for example if you’re wearing a blue suit with white stripes then choosing a pocket square with light blue dots would complement the stripes without being too busy.

Material Selection:

Choosing the right material for your pocket square depends on seasonality as well as personal preference. Silk is classic and versatile which makes it an ideal choice year-round while cotton is best suited for summer months due to its breathable nature.

For more casual occasions linen could also work well as it offers texture and adds depth to your look. When selecting materials keep in mind how they will drape/fold as this plays an important part in creating different folds/styles.

Fold Style Preference:

There are various ways a pocket square can be folded each offering their own unique style statement. The simplest fold often referred to as “presidential” involves folding the fabric into thirds creating a rectangle shape that sits flush against the breast pocket.

If you want something slightly more sophisticated but still chic then try out “the puff” which creates volume and texture by pinching together one corner of the fabric before placing it inside your jacket’s breast pocket.

Finally, for more formal events like weddings or black tie events consider trying out intricate folds like “the three-point”, “the four point” or even “the crown”. These offer both elegance and sophistication without going overboard!

In conclusion, picking out the perfect accessory doesn’t have to be complicated! By paying attention to color coordination, pattern matching/contrasting, material selection based on seasonality/fabric draping and fold style preference based on formality of event you can create a look that is both sophisticated and stylish.

So next time you’re getting dressed up, don’t forget to add this essential accessory – the pocket square!