How to Fold a Pocket Square Correctly for Your Look

The Classic Fold

The classic fold is suitable for all occasions but slightly less formal than the presidential one. Wear it with a modern suit but not a tuxedo.

A solid color square is ideal for this type of fold.

1. Lay the pocket square face down
2. Fold the square in half moving from right to left
3. Fold in half again, moving from bottom to top
4. Now fold in half from left to right
5. Finally, fold the bottom up and behind the front
6. Add to the jacket pocket and adjust the bottom fold to be visible

This is unnecessary to ensure the edges are fully lined up for this fold. Indeed, the asymmetry lends more interest and creates a more casual vibe.

The Presidential Fold

The presidential pocket square (also known as the square fold)  is one of the most straightforward pocket square folds to do, but it oozes class and elegance. This fold suits very formal occasions, looks fantastic in a tuxedo breast pocket, and works best with a solid color pocket square.

1. Lay the pocket square face down
2. Fold the square in half moving from right to left
3. Fold in half again, this time moving from left to right
4. Fold in half from top to bottom
5. Fold the bottom part up and behind the front. 
6. Tuck it in your pocket. Adjust the bottom into a neat line, and the square is visible 

The Puff Fold

The puff pocket square fold works well for formal and casual occasions and is highly versatile since it looks great with a patterned pocket square and solid-color fabric.

For the ultimate in style, choose a silk pocket square for this fold, as the puffed nature of the fabric will bring out the color depths and tones to perfection.

1. Lay the pocket square down face up
2. Pinch the center with your fingers and lift up
3. Using your other hand, smooth the fabric and ensure all corners hang evenly
4. Grab the fabric in the center and fold the four corners up and behind
5. Tuck the pocket square in your jacket pocket. Adjust it by puffing up the pointed end

Why not try the reverse puff for a unique twist on this fold? Follow steps 1-3 above, then do the following:

4. Fold the pocket square in half
5. Turn the square around with the corners facing upwards
6. Add to the pocket and adjust. The four corners should be poking out the top

The Double Winged Puff Fold

This is a more advanced fold since it involves using two squares. But if you can pull it off, it’s a highly creative yet sophisticated way to wear a pocket square. Try this fold with solid colors, or use a solid color paired with a pattern for extra creativity.

1. Lay both squares flat in a diamond shape
2. Fold each square from top to bottom to form two triangles
3. Choose which square you want in the middle and fold the top two corners to meet the bottom corner to form a diamond shape
4. Place the diamond shape on top of the triangle. The top corner of the diamond needs to be slightly above the top edge of the triangle
5. Fold the top corners of the triangle over the diamond to form a single diamond shape
6. Fold the left and right corners back and behind the diamond
7. Fold the bottom corner back and behind
8. Place the pocket square in the pocket and adjust

The Scallop Fold

The scallop fold is versatile as it can be used with printed or plain-colored pocket squares. This style is simple but is more playful than the classic fold.

1. Lay the pocket square flat in a diamond shape
2. Fold the bottom corner to meet the top corner
3. Next, fold the right corner to meet the left corner
4. Turn the shape so the wide edge is at the top
5. Fold the right corner so it touches the edge of the opposite side. Repeat this with the left corner
6. Insert into your pocket and adjust accordingly

The Rose Fold

The rose pocket square fold takes some practice to master, but the results are worth it, as this is a truly stunning look. This type of pocket square folding incorporates using arich-colored silk to get the best out of this fold. If you have roses as part of your wedding decor, then this will complement your theme to perfection.

1. Make a circle with your thumb and forefinger to lay the pocket square face up in your hand
2. Push the center of the square down into your hand with your free hand’s index and middle fingers. Then use your little and ring fingers under the fabric to grip the center of the fabric
3. Using your free hand, twist the fabric on top around until the corners wrap neatly around and there is no more loose fabric
4. Hold the top part of the “rose” and carefully remove your hand from underneath. Take care that the fabric doesn’t unfold. If it does, start the process again
5. Place in your pocket and make final adjustments

The Four-Point Fold 

The four-point pocket square fold (also known as the crown fold) is a popular yet classic look that adds a touch of pizzazz to an otherwise flat pocket square. It’s suitable for formal and casual suits and looks extra stylish if you choose a pocket square with different colored sides.

1.  Lay the pocket square flat in a diamond shape
2. Fold the bottom corner up to the top but offset it to the right of the top corner so it forms a second “peak”
3. Fold the bottom right corner upwards, and offset the top corner to the left, forming the third peak
4. Next, Fold the bottom left corner upwards, so it sits to the far right, forming the fourth peak
5. Now take the right and left edges of the shape and fold inwards, so the bottom portion resembles a cone
6. Tuck the tip of the cone shape back for a straight bottom line to sit within your pocket
7. Place the entire shape into your pocket and adjust, if needed

How to Fold a Suit Pocket Square: Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Most Popular Pocket Square Fold?

The presidential or square fold  are undoubtedly the most popular pocket square folds. It looks effortlessly elegant with all suits, including tuxedos, wedding attire, and business suits.

What is the Best Pocket Square Fold?

The best pocket square fold is up to you. Wearing a pocket square as long as it matches the rest of the outfit, adds a special touch to your outfit.

Are Pocket Squares Still Cool?

Just like the suit itself, the pocket square is timeless. And while colors, patterns, and folds may come and go out of fashion, the cool pocket square will always remain an essential accessory for completing your formal look.

Is It OK To Wear a Pocket Square Without a Tie?

You can wear a pocket square without a tie if you want a more laid-back vibe, such as pairing your pocket square with a blazer. However, for formal occasions, wearing a tie or a bow tie with your suit and pocket square is customary.

What Does a Pocket Square Say About You?

A pocket square for a wedding says that you pay attention to detail when dressing well. It shows you have put thought into your outfit and conveys a sophisticated elegance with a dash of personality.

When Should You Not Wear a Pocket Square?

If you are still unsure on how to wear a pocket square and when to wear it,there is never an inappropriate time to wear a pocket square. This small piece of fabric completes a suit and always looks stylish. However, while wearing a pocket square is always okay, you must match its color and pattern to the suit and the occasion.

How to Fold a Pocket Square: Final Thoughts

Pocket squares add the final flourish to your wedding attire and should not be forgotten. We’ve only scratched the surface of available folds; there are over 30 options. Have fun discovering new ways on how to fold your pocket square. It’s your chance to add a creative flair to your look. Sunica Du, designer and illustrator, wants to remind you that, “the pocket square is your tie’s companion and not their identical twin.” So get ready to make a statement!  

For more style tips and hacks to make your big day go smoothly, check out our other articles on The Groom Club.