Folding a pocket square

How to fold a pocket square

A pocket square is rarely a requirement of any dress code, so to wear one is to make a statement, however subtle that may be. You could be expressing a refined understanding of how to match textures and pattern, or you could be trying to stand out amongst a crowd of besuited gentlemen. The variety of textures and patterns available ensure you have a plethora of choice when it comes to selecting the perfect pocket square. To really distinguish yourself however, knowing how to fold a pocket square is of equal importance to its design. There are literally hundreds of variations of how to fold a pocket square, so below we’ve picked out the five folds we most commonly find ourselves using. 

1 - Straight Fold 

1 - Start with the pocket square face down

2 - Fold one third over left to right

3 - Fold back the other third right to left

4 - Fold up the bottom third

5 - This is the reverse side, ready to be placed into your top pocket.

Note - if you have a smaller pocket square, then you may wish to fold once in half rather than thirds. When you place this into your pocket, there should be around 1 centimetre visible. 

2 - Single Point fold

1 - Start with the pocket square face down with a point at the top

2 - Fold the bottom half up to the top

3 - Fold about one third over left to right

4 - Fold the right side point back to the left edge

5 - Fold the bottom third upwards to show the finished fold from the reverse side

3 - Double Point Fold

1 - Start with the pocket square face down with a point at the top

2 - Fold the bottom half up to the top, but with the points slightly offset

3 - Fold about one third over left to right

4 - Fold the right side point back to the left edge

5 - Fold the bottom third upwards to show the finished fold from the reverse side

4 - Sail Boat Fold

1 - Start with the pocket square face down

2 - Fold one half over left to right

3 - Fold the bottom half up to the top

4 - Fold one third round to the back on an angle so that one corner peaks up

5 - fold the bottom third up 

Note - This style works particularly well when you have a contrasting edge to your pocket square.

5 - Puff Fold

1 - Start with the pocket square face up, and pinch the centre between your fingers.

2 - Form a ring with your thumb and forefinger on your left hand to pull the pocket square through 

3 - Pinch the pocket square in the centre forming the puff above 

4 - Whilst pinching, fold the bottom corners upwards

5 - The finished fold, as seen from the front

Note - the puff fold works well on heavily pattered designs such as paisley or floral print pocket squares, and is often best reserved for less formal environments.