Mens Pocket Squares

Pocket Squares & Handkerchiefs

Is it a ‘pocket square’, or a ‘handkerchief’? Are they the same thing? And, just what is a ‘pocket square’ anyway, and how do you wear one? The answer to all those questions seems to be ‘yes’. What is definitely known, is that pocket squares are a simple and elegant men’s fashion accessory, that can add a touch of class and dignity to your ensemble. Simply put, they are that folded square of colored silk, or linen, that you see peeking out from the top of the breast pocket of some men’s suit jackets, sports coats, or balzers. But, when is it appropriate to wear one, and can you get away with it in your everyday attire? And, if you feel the need, should you blow your nose on one?

To take the last part first, the answer to that depends on whether or not you’re living in the present day, or 600 years ago. A pocket square, and a handkerchief are, essentially, the same thing; a square piece of cloth worn on a man’s person. However, a handkerchief has a much more practical role, being used as a rag for personal hygiene. The story goes that Richard II of England invented the handkerchief, or at least popularized its use, when he described its royal need; ‘as a little piece of cloth, for the lord king to wipe and clean his nose’. Seeing Richard the king do it meant that it must be good idea, and, not to be left behind, the nobility and the upper classes followed suit. But, a good idea is a good idea. By the middle of the 17th century, men from all walks of life were making use of the handkerchief. Then, as now, it was considered unsightly to display a soiled handkerchief, so it stayed in the trouser pocket. Likely the pocket square would never have evolved into the accessory that it is, if men’s fashion hadn’t evolved first. So, as two piece suits became popular in the 19th century, men began placing their clean handkerchiefs in their breast pockets; allowing them to peek out, and add a bit of dash to their look. Of course, inevitably they would need to be used, and then they went right back into the pants pocket. Eventually, the look of a pocket square as an accessory to a suit became so common, that it became just that; an accessory and nothing more. This attitude toward the pocket square was even further reinforced with the adoption of specific and elaborate folding techniques; obviously not meant to be undone once they had been placed in the breast pocket. By the 1920’s, many men would even carry a separate handkerchief in their pants pocket for practical use. The pocket square had hit its heyday. But, with the invention of antibiotics, and after World War II, the classic linen handkerchief was looked on as un-hygienic. And, with the Kleenex company’s invention of disposable hankies, the cloth equivalent fell out of use; leaving pocket squares as nothing but a fashion accessory.

As was mentioned before, a pocket square is simple, and elegant way to add a touch of flamboyance and class to your outfit. However, there are a few pitfalls to be aware of. Sometimes, the very elegance of a pocket square can work against it, and be viewed as slightly ‘snobby’, or over-dressed. This is not to say that you shouldn’t try a pocket square, just that you may want to be aware of the environment you’re wearing one in. For instance, if it’s your first day on the job, and you want to try to impress, you may want to so with your killer work ethic, and leave the pocket square at home for the time being, as it’s the sort of accessory that you may have to ‘work up to’. One trick that is recommended is to have your pocket square sporting a different, but still complimentary, pattern and or color to your necktie. This has the effect of making your use of the pocket square seem less formal. Having said that, it should be noted that a pocket square is almost a must for ‘black tie attire’, or other formal events; the black bow tie and tails, with a white pocket square being a classic look.

In general, feel free to experiment with using a pocket square to enhance you look. Just be mindful of the environment that you’re wearing it in, and be sure to have the confidence to pull it off.

For More Information you May Like to Read:
How to Fold a Handkerchief


Your Bows-n-ties.com Team