The Complete Guide to Folding a Pocket Square

Why Pocket Squares Matter

You might wonder if a small piece of fabric really makes a difference. The answer is a definite yes. Here's why pocket squares deserve a place in your wardrobe:

• They complete your look. A suit without a pocket square can feel unfinished. Adding one creates visual interest and draws the eye upward toward your face.
• They showcase personal style. Your choice of fold, color, and pattern says something about who you are. A sleek presidential pocket square signals formality, while a relaxed puff shows creative flair.
• They're versatile. The same pocket square can work for a wedding, a job interview, or a night out depending on how you fold it.
• They're affordable. Unlike other accessories, pocket squares offer high impact at a low cost. One or two quality squares can elevate multiple suits in your closet.

Choosing the Right Fabric

Before diving into folding techniques, it's worth understanding how fabric affects your options. Different materials hold different folds better.

Silk pocket squares have a smooth, luxurious sheen that works beautifully for formal occasions. They drape elegantly but can be slippery, making structured folds more challenging.

Cotton pocket squares are stiffer and hold crisp edges well. They're ideal for classic folds like the presidential fold or three-point fold and work across both formal and casual settings.

Linen pocket squares fall somewhere in between. They have a relaxed texture that suits summer events and less formal dress codes while still holding shape reasonably well.

Popular Pocket Square Folds

Now let's get into the techniques. Below are some of the most popular folds, organized from simple to more advanced.

The Presidential Fold (Square Fold)

The presidential fold is the most traditional and formal option. It creates a clean, straight line across the top of your jacket pocket and works perfectly for business settings, black-tie events, and any formal occasion where understated elegance is the goal.

How to do it:

1. Lay your pocket square on a flat surface.
2. Fold it in half to create a rectangle.
3. Fold it in half again so you have a smaller square.
4. Adjust the width to fit your suit pocket.
5. Tuck it into your breast pocket so only about half an inch shows above the edge.

This simple fold pairs well with solid colors and subtle patterns. It's the go-to choice when you want to look sharp without drawing too much attention.

The Puff Fold

The puff fold is casual, effortless, and adds a touch of personality to your look. It works well for weddings, dinner parties, and social events where you want to appear stylish but approachable.

How to do it:

1. Lay the pocket square flat.
2. Pinch the fabric in the center and lift it up.
3. Gather the hanging fabric loosely with your other hand.
4. Tuck the gathered end into your pocket with the puff facing up.
5. Adjust the puff until it looks natural and balanced.

This fold is forgiving and doesn't require precision. Silk works especially well here because it creates soft, flowing curves.

The One-Point Fold (Triangle Fold)

The one-point fold offers a bit more structure than the puff while remaining relatively easy. It's appropriate for both formal events and smart-casual occasions.

How to do it:

1. Lay the pocket square on a flat surface in a diamond orientation.
2. Fold the bottom corner up to meet the top corner, creating a triangle.
3. Fold the left corner toward the center.
4. Fold the right corner toward the center, overlapping slightly.
5. Tuck the folded square into your pocket with the single point facing up.

The Three-Point Fold

For those who want something more eye-catching, the three-point fold creates three peaks that fan out from your jacket pocket. It's a great choice for weddings or formal events where you want to make a statement.

How to do it:

1. Place the pocket square on a flat surface as a diamond.
2. Fold the bottom corner up toward the top and create a triangle. The top point of the triangle will be the center point of the fold.
3. Fold the left corner up toward the top right, overlapping to create the rightmost point
4. Fold the right corner toward the top left, overlapping to create the leftmost point.
5. Insert into your pocket with all three points visible.

This fold requires practice but delivers impressive results.

The Winged Puff Fold

The winged puff fold combines the softness of a puff with structured peaks, giving you the best of both worlds. It's a stylish option for semi-formal events and creative dress codes.

How to do it:

1. Lay the square flat and fold it into a triangle.
2. Fold the two side corners up to create a diamond shape with a point at the top.
3. Fold the bottom point up, leaving a small gap below the top point.
4. Flip the square over and fold the sides inward.
5. Tuck into your pocket with the peaks showing and the puff visible beneath.

The Dunaway Fold

Named after actor Faye Dunaway, the dunaway fold creates dramatic, cascading layers. It's perfect for those who want their pocket square to be a focal point.

How to do it:

1. Pinch the pocket square in the center and let the corners hang down.
2. Loosely fold the hanging fabric accordion-style, so all four corners are visible.
3. Tuck the folded base into your pocket with the peaks fanning outward.

This fold works best with patterned fabrics where you want to show off the square design.

Matching Your Fold to the Occasion

Choosing the right fold depends on where you're headed:

• Business meetings and interviews: Stick with the presidential fold for a polished, professional appearance.
• Weddings and formal events: The three-point fold or winged puff fold adds sophistication without being too flashy at any wedding.
• Casual outings and parties: The puff fold or dunaway fold lets your personality shine.
• Black-tie events: A classic fold in white silk complements a bow tie beautifully.

Remember that your pocket square should complement your outfit, not compete with it. If you're wearing a bold tie or flashy suit, consider a simpler fold and solid color. If your suit is understated, your pocket square can take center stage.

Finish Your Look with SuitShop

Folding a pocket square is simpler than it looks, and the payoff is significant. With just a few techniques in your repertoire, you can elevate any suit jacket and express your personal style with confidence.

Ready to build your collection? SuitShop offers a range of pocket squares in various colors and fabrics to match any occasion. Pair one with a coordinating bow tie, a sharp dress shirt, or a classic suit from our collection. Browse the full lineup of accessories and find everything you need to complete your look online or in a showroom near you today.