How to fold a pocket square?

Wearing a pocket square with a tie or a bow tie is the perfect way to add character and a personal touch to your suit, jacket or waistcoat. If you want to wear a pocket square, take into account the occasion when you are going to wear this fashion accessory. A classic white pocket square is recommended for very formal occasions. On slightly less formal occasions it is best to opt for a pocket square in one color. On informal occasions there may also pick a pocket square with a design. For example, a stripe design or paisley design. You could also wear a lapel pin in your lapel to subtly add more personality to your outfit.

Once you have selected a pocket square and have decided which folding technique suits you, always start by cleaning your hands and the surface on which you are going to fold the pocket square. Normally, a pocket square is made of silk and silk is a fragile material that is difficult to clean.

The Presidential Folding Method

The Presidential Folding Method, also known as the 'Classic Flat Fold', is the most elegant way to show off your pocket square. It is perfect for formal occasions such as Black Tie or White Tie events. This way of folding is best with a classic white pocket square.

1. Place the pocket square on a smooth, clean surface.
2. Fold the pocket square in half vertically and run your palm over the fold so that it becomes sharp.
3. Fold one side in again vertically - making the square almost a fourth of its original width.
4. Lastly, fold it in half horizontally, just enough so that a small piece of the square is visible when it is placed in your breast pocket. Place the pocket square in your breast pocket and smooth the upper tip by removing unwanted creases in the fabric.

The One Corner Up Fold

The ‘One Corner Up’ folding method is simple and elegant. It works perfectly for many occasions, from business to formal Black Tie events. This folding method is best with plain pocket squares.

1. Place the pocket square on a flat surface.
2. Make a triangle by folding the pocket square in half from corner to corner.
3. Fold a point inwards and make a sharp fold by stroking it with your palm.
4. Repeat this with the other point.
5. Place the pocket square in your breast pocket and give it a final smoothing touch so that it fits neatly.

Two-Corner up Fold

Another elegant folding method is the Two Corner Up fold. It is slightly less formal than the One Corner Up fold. It fits perfectly with plain pockets and works for all types of formal occasions.

1. Place the pocket square on a flat, clean surface.
2. Fold the pocket square slightly obliquely so that two triangles are created.
3. Then fold one point inwards
4. Fold the other point inwards.
5. Place the pocket square in your breast pocket and style it until it fits properly.

Three Corner Up Fold

This folding technique is also known as the 'crown fold', because it resembles the shape of a crown. It requires a little more practice, but once you've mastered it, it gives an elegant touch to any outfit.

1. Place the pocket square on a flat, clean surface
2. Fold the pocket square in half to create two overlapping triangles.
3. Fold a point between the other two points to make the third corner.
4. To make the flat base, fold the right corner inwards.
5. Carefully, place the pocket square in your breast pocket and style it so that it fits perfectly.

The Casual Fold

This folding technique is also called the 'Puff Fold'. It gives a bulky look and is not symmetrical. This makes it perfect for more casual occasions. It is ideal to wear to the office. Use a flexible silk pocket square, possibly with a design incorporated.

• Place the pocket square on a flat surface.
• Place two fingers in the middle of your pocket square and lift it up.
• Place the pocket square over the palm of your other hand.
• Turn the pocket square around.
• Place the pocket square in your breast pocket and give it a final styling touch.

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