The Ultimate Pocket Square Handbook: Complete Fold Tutorials, Dress Codes, and Color Coordination
Q1: How do I stop my pocket square from sinking to the bottom of my jacket pocket?
A1: Sinking occurs when the square is too small (under 13 inches) or folded too narrowly. To fix this, fold the square wider so the lateral tension presses gently against the pocket walls. Alternatively, fold the bottom tail upward to add bulk at the base, or tuck a clean piece of business card stock into the base of the fold for invisible support.
Q2: Is it ever acceptable to wear a suit without a pocket square?
A2: Yes. A clean breast pocket gives off a stark, minimalist aesthetic favored in modern architectural or severe business environments. However, an empty pocket on a textured sport coat or double-breasted suit often leaves the chest looking unfinished.
Q3: Should the edges of my pocket square be machine-stitched or hand-rolled?
A3: Hand-rolled edges with fine hand-stitching are the hallmark of quality menswear. They provide soft, organic, rolled borders that look far more natural when exposed in puff or multi-point folds than flat, rigid machine-hemmed edges.