How To Fold A Pocket Square | Best Styling Tips

The Classic Fold

Timeless and elegant, the classic fold is a simple way to fold a pocket square that looks classy and is easy to master. This type of fold would be suitable for both casual and formal events.

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1. Lay your pocket square flat, unfolded and crease-free on a table or any other flat surface.
2. Fold the pocket square in half from left to right to create a rectangle.
3. Fold the bottom of the pocket square up to meet the top.
4. Fold in half again, from left to right.
5. Place the folded pocket square in your jacket pocket, making sure that it's centered and the edges are aligned with the pocket opening.
6. Adjust as needed to create a neat, clean look.

The Straight Fold

This type of fold is similar to the classic fold, with folded edges to create a more polished look.

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1. Lay your pocket square flat, unfolded and crease-free on a table or any other flat surface.
2. Fold the left side over bringing the edge to near the center of the pocket square.
3. Fold the right side over, covering the fold made in step two. The new fold’s edge should align with the crease formed by the first fold.
4. Place the folded pocket square in your jacket pocket, making sure that it's centered and the edges are aligned with the pocket opening.

The Puff Fold

A more relaxed and casual outfit would benefit from a puff fold pocket square. It’s great for adding a bit of texture.

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1. Lay your pocket square flat, unfolded and crease-free on a table or any other flat surface.
2. Pinch the center of the pocket square and lift it up.
3. Use your other hand to gather and bunch the edges of the pocket square below the center pinch created in step 1.
4. Fold the bottom of the pocket square up so that it fits snugly into your pocket.
5. Adjust as needed so that it's the same width as your pocket and sits neatly in your pocket.
6. Place the folded pocket square in your jacket pocket, making sure that it's centered and the edges are aligned with the pocket opening.

The One-Point Fold (Single Peak)

Also known as the single peak fold, the one-point pocket square fold is a simple yet elegant option for any formal occasion.

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1. Lay your pocket square flat, unfolded and crease-free on a table or any other flat surface. Orient the pocket square so that it appears as a diamond (think of it as its corners pointing north, south, east and west).
2. Fold the pocket square in half diagonally, bringing the bottom left edge to meet the top right edge.
3. Fold in half again, bringing the new bottom right edge to meet the new top left edge.
4. Fold the right corner of the triangle toward the center of the smaller diamond created in previous steps.
5. Fold the left corner in to overlap the fold created in step 4.
6. Fold the bottom of the pocket square up so that it fits snugly into your pocket.
7. Adjust as needed so that it's the same width as your pocket and sits neatly in your pocket.
8. Place the folded pocket square in your jacket pocket, making sure that it's centered and the edges are aligned with the pocket opening.

The Two-Point Fold (Two Peaks)

Often called a double peak, this fold is similar to the one-point fold, but with two points instead of one. The two-point fold is a unique option that's sure to turn heads.

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1. Begin with the pocket square in the diamond orientation described in step one of the one-point pocket square fold.
2. Fold the in half, bringing the bottom corner of the pocket square up to the top corner. Rather than match corner to corner, the two should be slightly offset—this creates the twin peaks.
3. Fold right to left bringing the right corner past the halfway point. This step and the next will determine overall width.
4. Fold left to right, bringing the left corner to overlap the fold made in the previous step. Adjust the fold to width.
5. If the tip of the folded section from step 4 extends past the edge of the right crease, tuck it around and behind the pocket square.
6. Fold the bottom up, bringing it behind the front while adjusting for size.
7. Adjust the two points as needed to create the desired look.
8. Adjust overall size as needed so that the pocket square sits neatly in your pocket.
9. Place the folded pocket square in your jacket pocket, making sure that it's centered and the edges are aligned with the pocket opening.

The Three-Point Fold (Three Peaks)

This fold, often referred to as a three-peak fold, creates a more elaborate and sophisticated look, with three points protruding from the top of the pocket.

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1. Start with the pocket square flat as in step 1 of the one-point and two-point pocket square fold.
2. Fold the bottom corner of the pocket square, oriented as a diamond, up to meet the top point.
3. Fold the right corner up and over the top left edge, allowing it to protrude beyond the initial peak formed by the top corner.
4. Repeat step 2 with the left corner. You should now have a folded pocket square with a straight bottom edge and three distinct points at the top.
5. Fold the right edge toward the center.
6. Fold the left edge toward the center, overlapping the fold from step 5.
7. Fold the bottom of the pocket square up and behind, adjusting for size as needed.
8. Adjust the three points as needed to create the desired look.
9. Adjust overall size as needed so that the pocket square sits neatly in your pocket.
10. Place the folded pocket square in your jacket pocket, making sure that it's centered and the edges are aligned with the pocket opening.

The Presidential Fold

Ideal for black tie events, the presidential fold is a classic and formal way to fold a pocket square.

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1. Lay your pocket square flat, unfolded and crease-free on a table or any other flat surface.
2. Fold the pocket square in half right to left.
3. Fold in half again, this time from left to right, leaving a small gap between the leading edge of the fold and the crease created in step 2.
4. Fold the top edge down to meet the bottom edge.
5. Fold the bottom of the pocket square up and adjust as needed to fit your jacket’s breast pocket.
6. Adjust the folds as needed to create a neat and symmetrical square shape.
7. Place the folded pocket square in your jacket pocket, making sure that it's centered and the edges are aligned with the pocket opening.

Rose Fold

This floral take on the classic puff fold is a unique and eye-catching way to fold a pocket square.

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1. Taking your pocket square loosely in one hand, create a circle with your index finger and thumb of your other hand.
2. Place the pocket square over the circle create by your index finger and thumb in step one, centering the fabric over the circle.
3. Using your free hand, push a bit of fabric down into the circle.
4. Enclose your finger and thumb around the bunched fabric with a firm but light grip.
5. With your free hand, twist the remaining fabric draped over your other hand in a clockwise motion.
6. Twist until the fabric comes together with no loose ends and you are satisfied with the appearance. The twisting folds should resemble the petals of a rose from above.
7. Adjust as needed for size while maintaining the shape and appearance.
8. Place the folded pocket square in your jacket pocket, making sure that it's centered and the edges are aligned with the pocket opening.

What is the best fabric for a pocket square?

The best fabric for a pocket square depends on the occasion, personal preference and the outfit you're wearing.

For a formal occasion, go with a silk or cotton fabric.

For more casual occasions, a cotton, linen (for warmer weather outfits) or wool (for colder weather outfits) will suffice.

How do I choose the right pocket square for my outfit?

Choosing a pocket square for an outfit can be a fun and creative process. Here are some tips to help you choose the right pocket square for your outfit:

1. Consider the occasion: a formal occasion calls for a classic and elegant pocket square, while a casual event allows for a more playful and colorful pocket square.
2. Complement the outfit: choose a pocket square that matches or contrasts the colors in your outfit and consider the patterns and textures of both the pocket square and the outfit.
3. Coordinate with the tie: if you're wearing a tie, consider coordinating (or contrasting) the color and pattern of your pocket square with your tie.
4. Match the season: choose a fabric and color that suits the season.
5. Express your personality: choose a pocket square that reflects your style and individuality.
6. Experiment with folds: try out different folds such as a classic, straight or puff fold to find the one that suits your outfit and personal style.

Can I wear a pocket square with a casual outfit?

Yes, a pocket square can be worn with a casual outfit that includes a sport coat (or perhaps blazer). While pocket squares are often associated with formal wear, they can also be a stylish accessory for a more relaxed look when wearing a sport coat.

Can I mix and match pocket squares with ties?

Yes, you can mix and match pocket squares with ties. In fact, coordinating the colors and patterns of your pocket square and tie can add a stylish touch to your outfit. Here are some tips for mixing and matching pocket squares with ties:

• Coordinate colors
• Play with patterns
• Consider the occasion
• Vary the folds

How do I keep my pocket square in place?

There are several ways to keep a pocket square in place. Here are some techniques:

• Use a pocket square holder
• Use a pocket square fold with a tight hold
• Use double-sided tape
• Fold the pocket square tightly
• Use fabric starch