When it comes to wearing a sport coat, suit or tuxedo, you can't overlook the pocket square.
Always wear a pocket square.
Some designers/guys don't follow this rule. However, true etiquette calls for a pocket square. A true gentleman, a man with true style, will always have a pocket square.
Fred Astaire Gary Cooper
Tom Waits
Frank Sinatra Oscar Wilde
Pocket squares were originally utilitarian. They're hankies. Now they have taken on the role of a style accessory. Personally, I prefer a combination of the two. Don't be afraid to actually use a pocket square, and don't get too attached to them either.
A simple white cotton pocket square is almost always appropriate.
Vintage hand-knit white cotton pocket squares
Change up the material depending on the season or the occasion. For example, linen in the warmer weather, wool in the colder weather. Cotton for the everyday. Silk for a formal occasion.
Go ahead, get your pocket squares monogrammed.
Play with color and pattern as well. You can't really go wrong with a solid color pocket square. For the more fashionably adventurous, there are an infinite number of designs to chose from - conservative to wild. Match the pocket square to your tie, and to even your socks. Or mix and match complimentary colors and patterns.
Christian Dior
Pocket squares make a the best statement when wearing a simple suit and/or not wearing a tie.
Folding a pocket square intimidates a lot of guys. But... there is no right or wrong way to fold a pocket square. Shove it in your pocket carelessly. Fold it like a table napkin swan. Go with a simple mod straight line fold. It doesn't matter, as long as you've got one in your jacket pocket.
Don't leave your look incomplete.
Finishing touches!
Always wear a pocket square.
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