In the world of sartorial elegance, the pocket square serves as a subtle but powerful accessory, capable of elevating a suit from mundane to magnificent. Like a carefully chosen tie or a polished pair of shoes, a well-placed pocket square adds a touch of sophistication and personal style to any ensemble. While its appeal is undeniable, the art of folding and arranging a pocket square can seem daunting, especially for those new to the world of men’s fashion. However, with a few simple steps and a keen eye for detail, you can master the art of pocket square etiquette and elevate your suit to new heights of style. So, gentlemen, prepare to embark on a sartorial journey as we delve into the intricacies of how to put a handkerchief in a suit.
The first step in mastering the art of pocket square folding is to choose the appropriate fabric. While silk is the traditional choice for pocket squares, other fabrics such as cotton, linen, or even cashmere can add a unique touch to your ensemble. The key is to select a fabric that complements the texture and color of your suit. Once you have chosen your fabric, it’s time to select a folding style. There are countless ways to fold a pocket square, but some of the most popular and versatile methods include the presidential fold, the one-point fold, and the two-point fold. Each fold creates a distinct look, so experiment with different styles until you find one that suits your taste and the occasion. Now that you have chosen a folding style, it’s time to actually insert the pocket square into your suit jacket.
To ensure a polished look, start by making a small, precise crease in the center of the pocket square. This crease will serve as a guide for the rest of the fold. Next, begin folding the pocket square according to your chosen method, taking care to make clean, sharp creases. Once you have completed the fold, gently insert the pocket square into the breast pocket of your suit jacket, ensuring that it sits just below the top of the pocket. Adjust the square as needed until it is centered and symmetrical. And voila! With a few simple steps, you have transformed your suit from ordinary to extraordinary with the addition of a pocket square. As with any aspect of personal style, practice makes perfect. The more you experiment with different folding styles and fabrics, the more confident you will become in showcasing your pocket square with flair.
Choosing the Pocket Style
The pocket style of your suit plays a significant role in determining the way you fold and display your handkerchief. Different pocket styles have different capacities and shapes, so it’s important to choose the one that best complements your suit and the look you’re going for.
There are three main types of suit pocket styles:
| Pocket Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Straight Pocket | A simple and classic pocket with a rectangular opening and no flaps or pleats. It is suitable for most suits and provides a clean and understated look. |
| Flapped Pocket | A pocket with a flap that covers the opening. Flapped pockets add a touch of elegance and formality to a suit and are often found on tailored suits. |
| Pleated Pocket | A pocket with pleats on either side of the opening. Pleated pockets are less common but add a unique and decorative element to a suit. They are suitable for more casual or fashion-forward suits. |
Once you have selected the pocket style, you can choose the type of handkerchief that best suits the occasion and your personal style. For example, a white linen handkerchief is a classic choice for formal events, while a patterned handkerchief adds a touch of personality to a casual suit.
Folding the Handkerchief
Folding a handkerchief for a suit can elevate your style and add a touch of elegance to your attire. Here’s a detailed guide to help you master this art:
1. Spread the Handkerchief:
Lay the handkerchief flat on a clean surface. Ensure it’s wrinkle-free, as any creases or folds will show through the pocket.
2. Fold in Half Vertically:
Bring the right and left edges together and fold the handkerchief in half vertically. Line up the edges precisely to create a clean and symmetrical crease.
3. Make a Pyramid Fold:
Hold the folded handkerchief with the open end facing you. Fold the bottom right corner up towards the top left corner, forming a small triangle. Repeat this process with the bottom left corner, folding it up towards the top right corner. You should now have a diamond-shaped pyramid.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the handkerchief in half vertically. |
| 2 | Fold the bottom right corner up towards the top left corner. |
| 3 | Fold the bottom left corner up towards the top right corner. |
| 4 | Repeat steps 2 and 3 with the other side of the handkerchief. |
| 5 | Press down on the handkerchief to flatten it. |
Inserting the Handkerchief
To insert the handkerchief, you will need to follow these steps:
- Choose the correct pocket: In a suit, there are typically two pockets on either side of the jacket. The left pocket is usually reserved for a pocket square, while the right pocket is used for a handkerchief.
- Fold the handkerchief: There are several different ways to fold a handkerchief. The most common method is to fold it into a triangle. To do this, start by folding the handkerchief in half along the diagonal. Then, fold the bottom corner up to meet the top corner. Finally, fold the left and right corners inward to form a triangle.
- Insert the handkerchief: Once the handkerchief is folded, you can insert it into the right pocket of your jacket. Be sure to only insert the top third of the handkerchief, leaving the rest hanging out of the pocket.
- Adjust the handkerchief: Once the handkerchief is inserted, you can adjust it to your liking. You may want to smooth out any wrinkles or adjust the length of the handkerchief hanging out of the pocket.
| One-Finger Fold | Resembles a stylish one-finger salute. |
| Classic Fold | Shows the most of the fabric and body. |
| Presidential Fold | Also known as the Square Fold. It appears as a square. |
| French Fold | Also known as the TV Fold. It looks very similar to the presidential fold but the top edge is slightly pointed. |
Adding a Touch of Flair
Once you’ve mastered the basics of folding and placing a handkerchief in your suit pocket, you can start experimenting with more creative ways to add a touch of flair to your look.
Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Use a Contrasting Color or Pattern
A handkerchief in a contrasting color or pattern can add a pop of interest to your suit. Just make sure that the colors and patterns complement each other well.
2. Add a Personal Touch
You can also add a personal touch to your handkerchief by embroidering it with your initials or a small design. This is a great way to make your handkerchief truly unique.
If you’re feeling creative, you can also try folding your handkerchief in a unique way. There are many different folding methods available online, so you can find one that suits your style.
3. Use a Pocket Square Holder
If you want to keep your handkerchief in place all day long, you can use a pocket square holder. This is a small clip that attaches to the inside of your suit pocket and holds your handkerchief in place.
Pocket square holders are available in a variety of styles, so you can find one that matches your personality. They’re also a great way to add a touch of extra detail to your suit.
4. Experiment with Different Fabrics
Handkerchiefs are traditionally made from cotton or linen, but you can also find them in other fabrics, such as silk, velvet, and wool. Experimenting with different fabrics can add a different texture and look to your suit.
5. Add a Touch of Fragrance
You can also add a touch of fragrance to your handkerchief by spraying it with your favorite cologne or perfume. This is a great way to make your handkerchief more personal and unique.
6. Use a Handkerchief to Accessorize
In addition to placing it in your suit pocket, you can also use a handkerchief to accessorize in other ways. For example, you can use it as a pocket square, a neckerchief, or even a headband.
7. Get Creative with Folding Techniques
There are endless ways to fold a handkerchief, and each fold creates a different look. Experiment with different folding techniques to find one that you like.
| Type of Fold | Description |
|---|---|
| Presidential Fold | A classic and elegant fold that is perfect for formal occasions. |
| TV Fold | A simple and easy fold that is perfect for everyday wear. |
| Crown Fold | A more complex fold that is perfect for adding a touch of flair to your suit. |
| Bird Fold | A unique and eye-catching fold that is perfect for making a statement. |
| Rose Fold | A beautiful and romantic fold that is perfect for special occasions. |
Caring for Your Handkerchief
A fine silk handkerchief can last many years if it is properly cared for (1). Hand wash your handkerchief, never machine wash it (2). To hand wash, soak your handkerchief in cold water with a mild soap for 30 minutes (3). Gently rinse the handkerchief in cold water and lay it flat to dry (4). Iron the handkerchief on the lowest heat setting, using a pressing cloth or steam to prevent scorching (5). Store your handkerchief in a clean, dry place (6). Avoid using chlorine bleach on your handkerchief, as this can damage the silk (7). If you must use bleach, use a non-chlorine bleach, such as oxygen bleach (8). If your handkerchief becomes stained, you can remove the stain by dabbing it with a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water (9). Rinse the handkerchief in cold water after removing the stain (10).
| Washing | Drying | Ironing |
|---|---|---|
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How to Put a Handkerchief in a Suit
A handkerchief is a classic accessory that can add a touch of sophistication to any suit. But how do you put it in your pocket so that it looks its best? Here are a few simple steps:
- Fold the handkerchief in half diagonally.
- Roll the handkerchief up from the point to the opposite corner.
- Insert the handkerchief into your breast pocket, with the point facing up.
You can also add a personal touch by adding a monogram or other design to your handkerchief.
People also ask
How do I choose the right handkerchief for my suit?
The best handkerchief for your suit will depend on the color and pattern of your suit. A white handkerchief is always a safe choice, but you can also experiment with different colors and patterns to create a more unique look.
How many handkerchiefs should I carry?
It is always a good idea to carry at least one handkerchief with you, but you may want to carry more if you are attending a formal event or if you are prone to sweating.
How do I care for my handkerchiefs?
Handkerchiefs can be machine-washed and dried, but it is important to avoid using bleach or fabric softener. You should also iron your handkerchiefs to keep them looking their best.
