How to Fold a Pocket Square

A pocket square is the single most important tool for defining a man of style, according to men's magazine GQ. A pocket square is simply a handkerchief worn in the top pocket of a jacket, used as a fashion accessory instead of a functional item. For a stylish look, it is important for the fold the pocket square properly. It is also important to consider the material, color, and how these elements work in conjunction with the suit and shirt.

Folding Pocket Squares
There are many ways to fold a pocket square. This makes the pocket square more versatile than it might first appear. One of the most common folds is the one point fold, which is easy to do, looks sophisticated, and is suitable for any formal occasion.

A One Point Pocket Square Fold
Lay the pocket square on a table or flat surface, oriented in a diamond position (with one corner pointing away). Fold the square in half to form a triangle, with the bottom corner lying exactly over the top corner. Find approximately halfway along the left slope of the triangle, and then fold the left corner inward at that point. Repeat this process on the right slop. The pocket square should now look like a square with a triangle on the top, similar in shape to how a child might draw a house. Tuck the square end into the breast pocket of the jacket, and leave the pointed end sticking out of the top. Make sure the folds are facing inward so they are not in view.

Other Pocket Square Folds
Although the one point fold is one of the easiest pocket squares, there are many other options. The type of fold depends on the event, because what is appropriate for one event may not be appropriate for another.



Fold
Difficulty
Description
Flat

Very easy

Leaves a straight edge emerging from pocket

Two point fold

Easy

Leaves two points emerging from pocket

Three point fold

Easy

Leaves three points emerging from pocket

Puff

Moderate

Deceptively simple

Leaves a puffy piece of handkerchief emerging from pocket

Dunaway

Difficult

Leaves four points emerging behind a roll of handkerchief

Four Mountains

Difficult

Similar to the Dunaway but the roll is not visible

Three Stairs

Very difficult

Leaves a three-tiered slope emerging from pocket



Although it is unnecessary to know many different folds, knowing them can help breathe fresh life into jacket and shirt combinations. An interesting fold can catch someone's eye and can help the wearer look distinguished.



Buying a Pocket Square
A properly folded pocket square can look sophisticated but only if the pocket square is stylish. A nice fold is irrelevant if the pocket square is scruffy or plain. It is important to carefully consider what kind of pocket square to buy.

Color and Pattern
The only rule regarding color and pattern is that the pocket square should complement the tie and shirt. It does not need a matching pattern. A good idea is to find a strong or repeating color in the design of the shirt, and then find a pocket square that has detailing that matches that color. That ties the outfit together.

A white pocket square is the classic look, but it can be boring. A solid color is more versatile, but a patterned pocket square is an attention grabber.

Material
The material of a pocket square is important, because they match with certain seasons and pieces of clothing. Designers like Paul Stuart offer pocket squares to match the weather. A wool pocket square is in order in winter when suits and jackets are heavier. In the summer, linen pocket squares are more appropriate.



How to Buy a Pocket Square on eBay
Consumers looking to buy men's accessories on eBay are spoiled for choice when typing "pocket square" into the search bar that appears at the top of every eBay page. This broad search term returns many results that might be of interest, but it is possible to filter the results based on price and the location where the items are for sale. Most popular designers make pocket squares, so consumers who are looking for a particular brand can perform specific searches for Armani, Gucci, Ralph Lauren, or any other designers they are interested in.



Conclusion
Looking distinguished and sophisticated, while wearing a pocket square, is an art. It involves learning how to fold a pocket square so it looks neat and stylish. It also involves knowing what kind of pocket squares to buy. A pocket square is an accessory that is as important as cufflinks, a watch, or a tie pin.