Pocket squares have made a bold comeback over recent years, firmly earning their place in men’s fashion. Whether to infuse color into an ordinary outfit or to seal a look with intent and style, pocket squares for men add charm, character and elegance. Read on to find out seven things you never knew about pocket squares – and discover the best ways to style them!
Today they nod to a time when elegance and attention to detail were hallmarks of a gentleman’s attire, but men’s pocket squares have adorned outfits for longer than you might imagine. In fact, this small but perfectly formed accessory is said to have originated in Ancient Egypt, around 4,000 years ago.
Historians have discovered evidence to suggest that wealthy Egyptians would carry small cloth squares (these were the days before silk pocket squares!) dyed with bright colors and decorated with embroidered motifs. As well as being used by laborers as a device to keep themselves clean during the day, wealthy men carried fabric squares to demonstrate their wealth and status, with linen considered a luxury fabric back then.
The accessory’s popularity in the ancient world was not limited to the Egyptians; the Greeks and Romans were also partial to the pocket square, often adding fragrance to theirs, to mask the various unpleasant smells around.
Over the course of the next four millennia, quite a lot has changed – and that goes for pocket squares too! The rise of the “modern” pocket square is often credited to King Richard II of England. This controversial monarch is often seen as popularizing the pocket square. Back in the 1300s when he ruled they were still often made from linen, however, this king is frequently recognized for making silk pocket squares fashionable.
It wasn’t simply about pocket squares for men back then; the accessory was just as popular with women and used for hygiene purposes such as covering the nose and mouth or wiping one’s hands. Women often sported a more delicate version, with lace adornments and embroidered patterns. One thing didn’t change though: Pocket squares still retained their association with status and refinement.
Today, pocket squares are less about status and more about style. When it comes to selecting the best one for you, fabric plays a key role. Of course, silk pocket squares reign supreme, but it’s not the only option. In summer, linen pocket squares complete an outfit in a less formal way and work well in lighter shades. (What’s more, you can regale people with your knowledge of how this fabric was popular with the Egyptians!).
Wool, meanwhile, represents a cozy choice in colder months and pairs well with winter suits. It adds texture and interest and is suited (no pun intended!) to more muted tones. Cotton pocket squares create a crisp look that works well at casual events. Silk remains a popular choice thanks to its connotations of luxury. It’s also the perfect weight so as not to add too much bulk. What’s more, silk pocket squares retain their shape and sheen, and, as it’s a natural protein fiber, it takes color easily. This means you have a silk pocket square in just about any color, pattern or design. Speaking of which…
Men’s pocket squares are the ideal accessory for adding individuality to an outfit. That’s where the choice of print, pattern, color and design comes into play. There’s a pocket square in every conceivable style, which means there’s also something to suit every occasion, personality and preference. Here’s the lowdown:
When you think of men’s pocket squares, chances are you imagine the classic pointed style folded neatly and peeking from the breast pocket. Although this traditional fold is timeless, there are plenty of other options. Some are more complex and intricate – such as the croissant fold – while others are relatively simple to master. If you’re struggling for inspiration, have a look at these straightforward ways to fold suit pocket squares.
The versatility of this petite accessory means you can achieve a different look with the very same pocket square, once you’ve mastered a few different folds. Part of its beauty lies in the fact that different colors and parts of the pattern are revealed, depending on where the creases land.
If you’re more accustomed to wearing a classic necktie, don’t fret: It’s perfectly acceptable to wear both! One thing to bear in mind is that these two accessories should complement each other, adding balance to your outfit rather than an overload of patterns and colors. To achieve this, stick to a few simple rules such as:
The pocket square is the ultimate accessory to elevate your ordinary outfit to new heights of style and sophistication. Enjoy experimenting and refining your look, armed with a little extra knowledge all about this clever little piece of fabric!
