Pocket squares may just be small square pieces of fabrics but they add a stunning visual touch that elevates any suit or blazer. Even so, there is an art and a science to getting this right.
Rule 1: A pocket square should never exactly match your tie or bow tie: even if they came in the same box or as part of a set, they shouldn’t be worn together. Instead, a pocket square should complement your outfit by either contrasting the other accessories you’re wearing or harmonising with them.
Rule 2: To help you find the right colour or pattern for your pocket square, pick a secondary colour off your tie, bow tie, or shirt, and opt for a pocket square that has that colour.
Rule 3: Patterns are completely fine, but they shouldn’t be overdone. If you’re wearing a tie or a bow tie that’s already heavily patterned, then opt for a pocket square that’s subtle or even one block of colour. The opposite is true if your tie or bowtie is plain.
Rule 4: Always keep the occasion in mind: a pocket square that works as part of an outfit for a wedding, won’t necessarily work for an outfit you’re wearing to a work meeting.
Rule 5: Much like a tie should always look sharp—its only function is aesthetics, after all—a pocket square’s one and only job is to add a touch of fanciness to your suit. It is up to you to decide how flamboyant you’d like it to look, but there is what’s called the ‘+2 rule’ for pocket squares. This states that on a scale of 1 (conservative) to 10 (out there), we should always opt for a pocket square that is +2 more than we’d rate ourselves. In other words, if you’re very conservative, you should opt for a 3 and add a little flair to your outfit.