How to Fold a Pocket Square: Step-By-Step Guide

Before tissues were common, the handkerchief was a trusty companion found in the pockets of men worldwide. But then came the pocket square. It’s like a fancy version of the handkerchief, used purely for looks. These squares are usually thinner, come in various colors, and often have decorative touches. Back in the 1920s, it became trendy to fold and tuck these stylish pieces of fabric into jackets.

Every man should know how to fold a pocket square, but a lot miss out on this skill. Usually, they just shove it into their pocket, and it ends up looking messy and lacking flair. But the good news? Folding a pocket square well isn’t rocket science! It’s just about knowing the steps and remembering them. Let’s break down those steps and go over some popular ways to fold a pocket square today.

Table of Contents

Presidential Fold

The Presidential Fold is the king of all pocket square styles! It’s perfect for any occasion, especially super formal ones where you want just the right amount of elegance. Solid colors work best, and if it’s a really fancy event, go for white.

Here’s how to fold pocket square:

Start with the pocket square facing down.
Fold it in half from right to left.
Then, fold it in half from left to right, leaving a gap on the right side.
Fold it in half from top to bottom.
Fold the bottom part up and behind the front, adjusting it to fit your jacket pocket.

Puff Fold

The Puff Fold is super easy and totally classy. It’s great for showing off a cool printed pocket square.

Here’s how to do the Puff Fold for your pocket square:

Lay the pocket square flat and smooth it out.
Pinch the center and lift it up.
Slide the fabric through your other hand so the four tips hang down evenly.
Tap the center to puff it up more.
Fold the four tips up to make it shorter.
Place it in your pocket and style it how you like.

1 Point Fold

The 1 Point Pocket Square Folds creates a neat and classy triangle that adds a stylish touch to your jacket. It’s versatile for any occasion and looks fantastic in solid colors or patterns.

Here’s how you fold:

Start by laying your pocket square on a flat surface and smoothing it out.
Fold it diagonally to create a triangle.
Fold one side point inwards.
Do the same with the other side point to make an envelope shape.
Lastly, tuck the folded square into your jacket pocket and adjust it as you prefer.

2 Point Pocket Square Fold

The 2 Point Pocket Square Fold is a timeless choice. It suits almost any fabric and outfit. Sturdier fabrics work best for this fold to keep the tips upright in your pocket.

How to:

First, lay the square flat and smooth it.
Fold it to create two overlapping triangles.
Make the base by folding it on one side.
Do the same with the other side.
Finally, tuck the folded pocket square into your pocket and adjust it as you like.

The 3 Layers Fold

The 3 Layers Pocket Square Fold is a sleek style with three stacked layers. It’s best in solid colors and gives a clean look, perfect for gentlemen who like a sharp appearance.

How to:

Smooth out the pocket square on a flat surface.
Fold it almost in half diagonally to make a triangle.
Fold up the two bottom corners.
Fold down the corner tips to shape it like a diamond.
Fold the bottom part up to form the lowest layer.
Lastly, fold back the bottom corners to get the right width.
Gently place it in your pocket and adjust if needed.

The Fan Fold

The Fan Pocket Square Fold is simple and looks fantastic! It’s perfect when you have a lively, boldly printed pocket square. Save this style for casual occasions, and make sure you have a rubber band handy to achieve this look.

How to:

Start by laying out your square.
Fold it in eighths to make creases.
Use the accordion method to fold the square into a long rectangle.
Fold the accordioned fabric in half and hold it together with a rubber band.
Spread the material out and tuck it into your pocket.

The Blanket Fold

The Blanket Pocket Square Fold is ultra laid-back, perfect for casual outings but not for formal events like weddings or business meetings. It’s for the easygoing guy who prefers a simple fold without fuss. This style works with any fabric, color, or print, so go ahead and give it a try!

How to:

Smooth out the pocket square on a flat surface.
Pinch the middle of the square and lift it up.
Hold it with your other hand.
Fluff up the point with your free hand.
Fold it in half.
Casually tuck it into your pocket for a relaxed, carefree vibe.

The 3 Stairs Fold

The 3 Stairs Pocket Square Fold is quite intricate and ideal for very formal events like black tie affairs. It works best with solid-colored pocket squares made from luxurious fabrics.

How to:

Start by laying the pocket square flat and smoothing it out.
Fold it diagonally almost in half, then flip it over.
Make an accordion-style pleat.
Repeat the accordion fold.
Fold it in half.
Tuck the bottom corner under at a diagonal.
Fold the left side under.
Turn it so the ‘stairs’ are facing upwards.
Tuck it into your pocket and rock a stunning look!

The Inception Fold

The Inception Pocket Square Fold creates a cool illusion of an extra pocket with a fold inside. Avoid using printed fabrics for this fold; instead, try solid colors with contrasting edges for a striking look. Stiffer materials work best to get sharp, defined peaks. It’s a versatile style that suits both casual and formal occasions.

How to:

Place your fabric in a diamond shape.
Start rolling the side corners inward.
Keep rolling until both sides meet in the middle.
Fold the bottom part up and underneath.
Then, fold the sides over to cover the upper part.
Carefully slide it into your jacket pocket and adjust it as needed.

The Double Presidential Fold

The Double Presidential Pocket Square Fold isn’t just for heads of state! Grab two squares that go well together and give it a try—it’s all about folding.

How to:

Smooth out two pocket squares.
Fold each of them in half to make rectangles.
Lay one on top of the other, letting the bottom one peek out a bit.
Fold the right side of the top rectangle in.
Repeat with the left side.
Wrap the right side of the bottom rectangle around the top one.
Repeat with the left side.
Slip it into your jacket pocket and rock that confident look!

The Stage Fold

The Stage Pocket Square Fold is like a tiny stage in your pocket! It’s a striking and unique look that’ll leave your friends curious about your folding skills. Wear it for any occasion using a solid-colored square in any shade you like.

How to:

Spread out the fabric.
Fold the top corner down and the bottom corner up to meet in the middle.
Bring the bottom part up to cover the tip of the top corner fold.
Fold in each of the side corners.
Fold the sides in again until it’s the right width.
Tuck it into your pocket and adjust it if necessary.

The 3 Peaks Fold

The 3 Peaks Pocket Square Fold is sleek and classy, just like you. For the best appearance, use solid-colored squares or ones with subtle prints.

How to:

Place the pocket square on a flat surface.
Fold it diagonally to create a triangle.
Fold it again to make a smaller triangle with corners overlapping.
Fold it once more, ensuring the third corner overlaps the first two.
Fold the bottom corner back to get the right width for your pocket.
Now, fold the bottom corner up to make a base.
Tuck it into your jacket and adjust as required.

The Croissant Fold

The Croissant Pocket Square Fold is as sophisticated as it sounds! It’s a series of intricate pleats that give it a sharp and dynamic look. It pairs well with solid-colored pocket squares.

How to:

Place the pocket square on a flat surface.
Fold it in half lengthwise to create a rectangle.
Fold the rectangle in half again to make a square.
Now, fold up the four corners, stopping slightly below each other.
Flip the pocket square over and fold it once more.
Tuck the left side under.
Tuck the right side under.
Finally, fold the loose triangle up and tuck it under the other folds.
Gently insert the folded fabric into your jacket pocket.

The Slope Fold

The Slope Pocket Square Fold is adaptable; it suits both the office and weddings. For business, opt for a subtle print, and for more casual events, choose a solid color. Any fabric can work, but stiffer ones maintain the peaks better.

How to:

Place the pocket square in a diamond shape.
Fold it in half diagonally, letting the corners overlap.
Fold the bottom right corner up to create a sharp peak.
Then, fold the tip of the peak back.
Fold the left side over the front.
Next, fold the bottom right point back.
Slide it into your pocket and adjust if needed.

The Double Winged Puff Fold

Wanna learn how to fold a pocket square for a suit? The Double Winged Puff Pocket Square Fold needs two squares of the same size. Using a solid color alongside a printed one works well for this fold.

How to:

Spread out both squares and smooth them.
Fold each one in half diagonally to create two triangles.
Choose the pocket square you want in the center and fold both tips of its triangle down to make a square.
Place the square on top of the triangle, about 2.5cm higher than the lower triangle.
Fold down both corners of the triangle to cover the square.
Fold the right and left corners of the square, containing both pieces of fabric, back so it fits in your pocket.
Fold the bottom part under to create a base.
Tuck the finished fold into your jacket and tidy up if necessary.

The Wave Fold

The Wave Pocket Square Fold is a stylish choice! Whether it’s a solid color or a patterned fabric, it looks great. Its asymmetrical design draws attention and keeps you looking sharp.

How to:

Smooth out your pocket square on a flat surface.
Fold one corner down to make a triangle.
Then, fold one side in just below the other side.
Fold it in again, showing three corners.
Now, make the left side tip touch the bottom tip by folding.
Flip the pocket square over, ensuring the tip faces towards you.
Fold down the side, showing the corners to create the ‘wave.’
Carefully tuck the folded pocket square into your jacket pocket.

The Cagney Fold

The Cagney Pocket Square Fold is fresh and playful, especially with a floral design. It looks fantastic with both solid-colored or printed pocket squares, giving you plenty of options to play with!

How to:

Smooth out the square on a flat surface.
Fold it diagonally in half to create a triangle.
Fold in one corner to make a second tip at the top.
Repeat on the other side for the third tip at the top.
Fold in the right side again to reduce the size of the folded pocket square.
Repeat the same with the opposite side.
Fold up the bottom corner to create the center tip.
Gently place it in your jacket pocket and adjust the shape as needed.

The Fleur De Lis Fold

The Fleur De Lis Pocket Square Fold is an iconic way to show off your favorite pocket square. It looks fantastic in both solid colors and bold prints. This fold is perfect for casual outfits.

How to:

Place the pocket square down and smooth it out.
Fold it in half diagonally to create a triangle.
Raise one corner slightly above the triangle’s base.
Flip the square and fold the other corner just below the first one.
Make three pleats on one side.
Repeat the pleating on the opposite side.
Fold the square in half at the center point.
Secure the base with a rubber band.
Gently spread the tips of the ‘flower’ apart.
Finally, tuck your creation into your pocket and arrange it as needed.

The Envelope Fold

The Envelope Pocket Square Fold is a playful imitation of an envelope. It gives you the feeling of carrying an important letter in your jacket all day. This style shines with silk fabric in a fun print.

How to:

Spread out the pocket square and smooth it flat.
Fold the two top corners down.
Fold both sides towards the center point.
Raise the left corner up.
Raise the right corner up.
Open the top corner.
Fold the ‘flap’ down.
Fold the bottom up to create the base.
Tuck it into your pocket, and you’re ready to go!

The Ice Cream Mountain Fold

The Ice Cream Mountain Pocket Square Fold is a fun fold that’s perfect for your vibrant, solid-colored pocket squares. You’ll need two squares, so feel free to mix and match fabrics for a playful effect!

How to:

Place both pocket squares flat and smooth them.
Fold each pocket square in half diagonally to make two separate triangles.
Position one triangle over the other, making sure the bottom square shows along the long side.
Wrap the top square with the bottom one, ensuring the top of both squares is visible.
Repeat this with the other pocket square.
Next, fold in the bottom square, and then do the same with the other square.
Fold the entire design in half along the center.
Fold back the left corner and refine the style.
Tuck it into your jacket pocket and enjoy!

The Split Diamond Fold

The Split Diamond Pocket Square Fold is sleek and neat—pure elegance. For a sharp point, opt for a stiffer fabric like cotton. It looks best with a solid-colored square in a vibrant hue.

How to:

Smooth the fabric on a flat surface.
Fold it in half lengthwise to form a rectangle.
Fold it once more to create a square.
Fold the square in half diagonally to make a small triangle.
Fold up each lower corner of the triangle to meet the center point.
Slip it into your pocket, and you’re ready to head out!

The Monarch Fold

The Monarch Pocket Square Fold is a sophisticated and intricate style that works well with any pocket square color or print. To avoid excessive bulk, opt for silk or other lightweight fabrics.

How to:

Smooth out your pocket square on a flat surface.
Fold the pocket square just below the halfway point. Fold it up and then back down to create a pleat.
Repeat this to form another pleat. Continue until you reach the bottom corner of the pocket square.
Fold the top corner down behind the pleats.
Next, fold the pocket square in half to make a smaller triangle.
Fold down one side at a 45-degree angle.
Carefully tuck it into your pocket and tidy up if needed.

The Christmas Tree Fold

The Christmas Tree Pocket Square Fold is charming, whether it’s the festive season or you’re a tree enthusiast all year round. It looks best with a solid-colored pocket square, and silk fabric gives it that perfect touch.

How to:

Place the pocket square flat on a smooth surface.
Fold it diagonally to create a rectangle.
Fold it over again to form a square.
Start folding each corner with the open tips up.
Turn the pocket square over.
Fold one corner towards the center.
Repeat this step on the opposite side.
Turn the pocket square over and rotate it by 90 degrees.
Fold back each leaf, starting from the top and working your way down.
Tuck your tiny tree into your jacket pocket and delight everyone you meet!

The 2 Petals Fold

Wondering how to fold pocket square for wedding? The 2 Petals Pocket Square Fold oozes simple elegance. It is ideal for formal events like weddings, especially in bold colors like red. Opt for a square with contrasting edges for an extra touch. Stiffer fabrics are better suited for this style.

How to:

Spread out a pocket square in a diamond shape.
Fold it diagonally, allowing the lower layer to peek above the top one.
Raise the left and right corners up.
Bend in the side corners.
Insert the fold into your pocket and adjust the ‘petals.’

The Peacock Fold

The Peacock Pocket Square Fold lets you flaunt a style inspired by these beautiful birds. Despite its intricate appearance, this fold shines remarkably in a bold and colorful print. Opt for a sturdy fabric for the best outcome.

How to:

Smooth the fabric in a diamond shape.
Fold the top right edge.
Make a peak with the right corner and rotate the pocket square to the right.
Fold the opposite corner to form another peak.
Bring the bottom corner up for a fourth peak.
Twist the bottom to touch the left corner of the fold.
Tuck it into your pocket and adjust it as needed.

FAQs

What is the best way to fold a pocket square?

The straight way is the best way to fold a pocket square, especially for beginners, as it requires very little effort.

What is the most popular pocket square fold?

The popularity of the fold depends on the event you are attending. A few of the most popular styles are two-point fold, straight fold, and puff fold.

Is it OK to wear a pocket square without a tie?

Yes, absolutely, it’s totally fine to wear a pocket square without a tie.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve seen how to fold a pocket square in different styles, why not give some a try and freshen up your regular suits? Most of these folds work well for both formal and casual events. Whether it’s for a wedding or a formal office suit, you can choose any of the folds mentioned above. Just remember to select the right designs and colors to achieve a smart and sophisticated look.

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