How to Fold the Perfect Pocket Square

Pocket squares are the ultimate expression of style and decoration. They complete your outfit and balance the colours and tones of your suit with your shirt and tie. If you’re looking to make a bold statement or nail your wedding colour theme, pocket squares are a great option.

Pocket squares come in a wide variety of materials, thicknesses, colours, and designs, and you’re guaranteed to find one that complements your suit or jacket. It’s time to discover how to fold a pocket square and give your look the perfect finishing touch.

How to Fold a Pocket Square: A Step-by-Step Guide

Folding a pocket square is easier than you think. It’s less complicated than looping a bow tie, and anyone can do it with some help and practice.

There are numerous ways to fold a pocket square, and you should always experiment with various methods before choosing your favourite style.

In this blog, we will focus on the four most common techniques for folding a pocket square: the flat fold, one-point fold, three-point fold, and winged puff fold. That way, you’ll have the ideal pocket square for any situation.

The Flat Fold

Also referred to as the presidential fold, a flat pocket square is a timeless classic that never goes out of fashion. It can be worn on any occasion from weddings to nights out and is relatively simple to master.

Here’s how you achieve the perfect flat fold:

1. Lay the pocket square on a flat, even surface and press out the corners until square in shape.
2. Hold the right side of the square and fold it over until it meets the left. You should now have a vertical rectangle.
3. Take the top of the square and fold it downwards, stopping an inch-or-so short of the bottom.
4. Your flat fold square is now complete. Simply tuck the square into your pocket with the folded side pointed up so that a clean edge is on display.

The One-Point Fold

The one-point fold is a simplified version of the three-point fold. It is one of the most popular and traditional types of pocket square folds. The style is renowned for having a single crisp corner with a sharp edge that can be easily tucket into a suit jacket or tuxedo.

To create one-point fold, follow these four simple steps:

1. Lay the pocket square on a flat surface and spread it out until it resembles a diamond shape.
2. Take the bottom point of the diamond and fold it up until it meets the top point.
3. Take the left-hand pointed corner and fold it inwards until it reaches just past the centre. Repeat the process with the right-hand pointed corner. Align the folded edges so they form 90-degree angles on both sides.
4. Tuck the square into your pocket, making sure the folded side is facing inwards, and you are left with a clean one-point fold.

The Three-Point Fold

As you might expect, the three-point fold is tricker to create than a one-point fold. But even though the process sounds more complex, it shouldn’t put you off. The result is a three-point pocket square that offers a refined and intricate look.

Here’s how to make a three-point fold:

1. Place the pocket square on a flat surface and spread it out until it’s shaped like a diamond.
2. Take the bottom point of the diamond and fold it up until it touches the top point.
3. Hold the left corner of the square and fold it up toward and right of the top point of the square, making a second peak.
4. Now take the right corner and fold it up to the left of the top point, thus creating your third and final peak.
5. Your three-point fold is ready to be tucked into your pocket, ensuring the folds face outwards to create a dramatic effect.

The Winged Puff Fold

If you’re looking for a unique pocket square design, consider the winged puff fold. Despite its sophisticated appearance, it is relatively simple to achieve and features a triangular shape with a double-folded centre.

Follow these steps to create a winged puff fold:

1. Lay the pocket square on a flat surface so it resembles a diamond.
2. Take the top, pointed corner, and fold it down towards the bottom corner until they match up.
3. Take both the left-hand and right-hand corners and fold them into the bottom corner until you make a smaller diamond shape.
4. Fold the left, right, and bottom corners of the diamond into the centre, creating the perfect winged puff fold.
5. Finally, tuck your pocket square into your suit or jacket pocket with the unfolded, puffed peak facing outwards.

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What Can I Use Instead of a Pocket Square?

If pocket squares aren’t part of your normal wardrobe accessories, there’s no reason to panic. A crisp, clean, cotton handkerchief is a great alternative and can be worn as a pocket square in most emergencies.

When using a handkerchief as a substitute, simply follow the same step-by-step guide for folding a pocket square. Just remember, handkerchiefs are mostly larger than pocket squares, so look out for bulging pockets and try and keep them as flat as possible.

What are Pocket Squares For?

Pocket squares originate from the humble handkerchief, but there is a distinct difference. While handkerchiefs clearly have a practical purpose, pocket squares are purely used for decoration.

Often used as a fashion accessory to complete a look, pocket squares provide a splash of colour and personality and help balance the tones of your outfit. For instance, this vivid polka dot set comes with a matching tie and pocket square that will brighten up any formal outfit.

When Should You Wear a Pocket Square?

There are no definitive rules about when to wear a pocket square. There is no right or wrong answer, though a pocket square has become an important styling accessory when wearing a three-piece suit.

One of the best things about a pocket square is its versatility, and we recommend playing around with different fabrics, prints, and tones. Pay close attention to the colour of the suit or blazer you’re pairing it with. Identify any subtle shades and look at the type of inner lining so that you’ll match the pocket square to those specific tones.

If you’re going with a smart blazer and chinos, think about switching up the fabrics with a knitted tie and pocket square set. If it’s a classic two-piece suit, something more traditional like a traditional two-tone blue pocket square might be more appropriate.

Generally speaking, the decision to add a pocket square depends on how formal or casual the look is. If the jacket and shoes lean towards formal, a pocket square is a great addition. If you’re wearing a baggy shirt and trainers, it’s better to leave it out.

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What Colour Pocket Square is Best?

The colour and pattern of your pocket square mostly depends on the type of suit and shirt you’re wearing. If you’re going for a plain suit and shirt combination, this Paisley-style tie and pocket square set will add a pop of colour. If your outfit features a print or check design, a plain pocket square is better as it helps break up the lines.

Similarly, the fabric of your suit should also play a part in your choice of pocket square. For example, a pocket square in a thicker material may be required when matched with a stylish tweed suit. Also, go for a pocket square in earthy tones if you’re wearing an olive suit or the jacket is a shade of brown, tan, or red. Meanwhile, blue, navy, or black pocket squares are incredibly versatile and can be matched with almost any colour suit.

Ultimately, red, striped, and spotted pocket squares are considered to be a formal look, whereas floral patterns are more popular at weddings and special occasions.

How to Fold a Pocket Square: Key Takeaways

From peaks and puffs to classic flat, there are many ways to fold a pocket square. The event or occasion usually determines the type of pocket square and fold you should choose. Board meetings and work events call for a simple square fold, while weddings and celebrations require a more flamboyant fold like the winged puff.

To achieve the perfect pocket square finish, ensure the material is properly ironed and crease-free as this can make all the difference to your overall look. Finally, whether you’re going for a simple fold or a puffed fold, don’t stress about it – you’ll look a million dollars!

Looking for the Perfect Pocket Square?

At House of Cavani, our collection of pocket squares includes everything from classic designs to bold, vivid colours that elevate your look. Explore our range today and create your perfect look.