Is it Appropriate to Match Your Pocket Square and Tie?

Whether worn for formal or informal occasions, the classic pocket square is a must-have piece of apparel for any well-groomed guy.

Incorporating a pocket square into a well-fitting suit is an effortless way to establish your style sense and define yourself as a stylish man. Pocket square etiquette, on the other hand, is what makes a true fashion aficionado stand out.

Here are some tips for wearing a pocket square like a pro so that you can seem sophisticated and contemporary without coming across as archaic.

Are Your Pocket Square and Tie Supposed to Match?

Not at all. There's no need to match your pocket square to your tie precisely. You know that matching pocket square and tie you've had your eye on? Do not engage in it at all.

Even though it can seem like the easiest way to coordinate your outfit, matching your pocket square to your tie is a stylistic faux pas. The pocket square's function is to highlight the look by providing a design that contrasts with the rest of your outfit.

How Should a Pocket Square and Tie Be Coordinated?

Selecting colours and patterns that complement one another but aren't exact matches is a basic rule of thumb.

To start putting more money into the style game, a man should first learn his colours. You are looking to pair together complementary (blue and orange, red and green, etc.) and analogous (pink and red, blue and purple, etc.) hues; therefore, consult a colour wheel.

The secret to selecting your pocket square is to identify a colour that goes well with or contrasts with another element of your ensemble. This looks best when you base it on your tie's design to create a cohesive outfit.

If you choose a bold style, there should be enough contrast for it to stand out. Pick a complementary colour scheme and stick with it. For example, an orange pocket square will contrast most with a tie that has blue undertones.

Depending on the event, you might need to go with a more muted, subtle style. Select an analogous colour scheme and pair either two cooler or two warmer hues, such as purple and blue. On the other hand, go with a more safe and neutral colouring scheme.

Certainly the hardest aspect is getting the patterns on your pocket square, tie, and suit to coordinate. It's crucial to select patterns of varying sizes to create contrast when accessorising with comparable patterns. Consider matching a big polka-dot tie with a smaller pocket square. The safest option could be to go with a basic pocket square if your outfit already features a lot of patterns.

Finally, but just as importantly, avoid wearing accessories made of the same fabric in different styles. While it's a guideline that shouldn't be disregarded, wearing a silk pocket square with a silk tie is excessive. Use a pocket square made of cotton or linen to add contrast to your ensemble, or the other way around.

In light of this, consider your pocket square as a means of expressing your personal style. Its primary purpose is to stand out and be easily noticeable, but it also lends a feeling of sophistication to any ensemble. Therefore, don't be scared to be brave, bold, and, most importantly, confident when wearing it.

When Is It Appropriate to Wear a Pocket Square?

There's really never a moment or place where a pocket square isn't appropriate for a style-conscious gentleman.

It's likely that a pocket square will enhance your ensemble if you find yourself debating whether to wear one with something. It's not necessary to save them for formal occasions; if you're wearing a classy coat, blazer, or jacket with a pocket big enough to accommodate your square, it makes perfect sense.

Nonetheless, you should pick the ideal pocket square for the situation. You should think about dressing more conservatively for a day at work and more casually for an evening out, even if your finest premium silk pocket square will always be your first option for formal occasions.

Is It OK Not to Wear a Pocket Square?

Without a pocket square, a jacket is, in our opinion, nude. However, they are not required for formal attire, so you are free to choose not to wear one.

To obtain a clean, polished look, the remaining elements of your ensemble must be flawless if you choose to forego the square. Instead of wearing a tie and square, think about making your shirt or suit jacket the focal point of the ensemble.

Can a Pocket Square Be Worn Inside a Shirt?

A shirt's breast pocket can be used for a variety of things, but one of them isn't to hold your prettiest pocket square.

Wearing pocket squares to accessorise your outerwear is generally advised. You can wear it with a blazer, sports coat, topcoat, or suit jacket.

Do You Pair a Bow Tie With a Pocket Square?

Sure. The best way to seem put-together and classy is to wear a pocket square with a bow tie.

As long as the same guidelines are adhered to when selecting complementing accessories, a pocket square can enhance the appearance of both neckties and bow ties.

Does Your Shirt Have to Match the Pocket Square?

The only colour scheme that shirts and pocket squares should match is perhaps one of similarity. It is an unacceptable fashion error to wear a checked shirt with a checked square.

Rather, we advise laying the groundwork with your shirt and suit jacket, then adding a distinctive edge to your outfit with accessories that either contrast with or complement your outfit.