THE POCKET SQUARE

The pocket square 🧣 is back 🥳 . It's a gentleman's clothing accessory that's tucked into the outer breast pocket of a jacket, peeking out.

It emerged around 1830 during the Biedermeier period and was worn in striking colors with riding attire. The jacket and frock coat were introduced as business suits a few decades later and were visually enhanced with a pocket square. The tailcoat, on the other hand, had no breast pocket until 1930 and was often decorated with a white carnation on the lapel—astonishing, isn't it? Another story.

After that, tie (or bow tie) and pocket square with matching patterns first appeared as a set. The tie was quickly considered old-fashioned, and men stopped wearing it. Fortunately, I believe it's socially acceptable again .

The simplest, classic style is a starched white linen handkerchief worn with a white shirt. The simple pocket square is also available with colored edges. The more expensive versions of the pocket square are hand-rolled. The more elegant version is a colored silk handkerchief, which is color-coordinated with the clothing. Pocket squares can have bold, contrasting colors and striking patterns, or they can pick up the basic colors of the usually multi-colored tie or shirt. It gives the look an instant stylish feel. I believe that even though the classic buttonhole flower is unfortunately becoming increasingly rare, men shouldn't do without a bit of jewelry altogether. It can be the finishing touch to an outfit.

If you don't like wearing a tie, you can also wear the pocket square on its own.

Generally speaking, the gentleman's handkerchief isn't just worn for special occasions. It's meant to add an elegant touch and an additional pop of color to a suit, ensemble, or (tweed) jacket. I like to add the delicate handkerchief whenever I'm wearing a blazer with a breast pocket.