How to Fold a Pocket Square
A pocket square finishes a jacket the way nothing else can. Start with the straight fold — the cleanest, most versatile look — then branch out.
- 1
Lay it flat
Place the pocket square face-down on a flat surface as a diamond or square, smoothing out any creases.
- 2
Fold in half
Fold the square in half left to right to make a rectangle, then in half again to make a smaller rectangle roughly the width of your breast pocket.
- 3
Adjust the height
Fold the bottom up so the folded square is a little taller than your pocket is deep, leaving a clean straight edge at the top.
- 4
Place in the pocket
Slide the square into the breast pocket with the straight edge showing. Reveal about a centimetre of silk above the pocket line — neat and understated.
Three folds to know
The straight (presidential) fold is the most formal and works with any pattern — only a clean line shows. The one-point fold reveals a single triangle for a touch more flourish. The puff fold gathers the silk loosely for a soft, relaxed finish that suits print-heavy squares.
With a hand-rolled silk square, the puff fold shows off the rolled edge beautifully — let the fabric fall naturally rather than pressing it.
Should the pocket square match the tie?
Coordinate, don't match. Pick up one colour from your tie or cravat in the pocket square rather than using the identical fabric — it looks considered instead of bought-as-a-set.