How to Fold a Pocket Square for a Wedding: A Guide for Groomsmen

When it comes to wedding attire, the pocket square is often an overlooked accessory. However, when used correctly, a pocket square can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit.

In this blog post, we will discuss the basics of folding pocket squares, as well as some tips on how to choose the right one for your outfit. We will also provide instructions on how to fold a pocket square for a wedding, as well as different ways to fold it for different occasions.

Finally, we will give you some tips on how to store and care for your pocket squares. So without further ado, let’s get started!

The right pocket square can add a certain ‘je ne sais quoi’ to your formal attire for your wedding day as well as black tie event and formal occasions.

When choosing a pocket square for a wedding there are no hard and fast rules but it’s worth bearing in mind that your choice of pocket square fabric is the perfect opportunity to add a splash of colour and coordinate with any colour theme you may have for the wedding.

Finding a fabric colour which is a close match to the flowers or bridesmaid dress fabric can bring everything together and result in a polished and coordinated finished product.

Of most importance of course is ensuring the fabric will work well with your suit – solid colour or patterned pocket square, the desired end result is a pop of colour and sophistication to elevate your jacket pocket from casual attire to the perfect wedding suit!

The first thing you need to know about pocket squares is that there are three main types of folds: the puff fold, the peak fold, and the flat fold which is also known as a presidential pocket square. Each of these folds has its own unique look, so it’s important to choose the one that best suits your style.

A puff pocket square is a versatile and easy look which is perfect for not only formal occasions but also more casual wear.

The peak fold is another classic look and can range from a basic one point pocket square to a two point pocket square – or even a three point pocket square or a four point pocket square if you want to go all out!

The flat pocket square is a timeless, sophisticated, formal classic that is also known as a presidential pocket square.

To create a puff fold, pinch the pocket square in the middle and then make a semi-circle shape using your index finger and thumb.

Run the semi-circle shape down the fabric until you are around three-quarters down the material.

Stretch the puff to create more volume and then tuck the puff underneath the remaining fabric.

Position the puff fold pocket square into your jacket pocket and carefully re-adjust the pocket square until it’s the perfect look for you.

To fold a pocket square with a single peak (or one point), start by placing the pocket square face down in a diamond position.

Fold the pocket square in half from the left side and bottom corners over to the top and right corners.

Fold the pocket square in half again from the right and bottom corners to the top and left corner.

Next, take the top right corner and fold it into the center point.

Now take the left corner and fold it to the right corner.

Finally, fold the bottom of the pocket square up and behind the front.

Now adjust the pocket square to fit the size of your jacket pocket.

To create a flat fold pocket square, also known as a presidential pocket square, begin by simply folding the pocket square in half, ensuring you have a straight fold.

Continue to fold over and over until you reach the seam of the pocket square.

Next, fold your pocket square in half and then half again by tucking it underneath itself.

Once the folding is finished, you have the choice of displaying the border edging of your pocket square or the folded edge.

Arrange the folded pocket square in your jacket pocket – and there you have it, the finished product!

No matter which pocket square fold you choose for a wedding, remember to practice in advance so you are calm and confident when the big day arrives. Find a flat surface to practice your pocket square fold and ensure you try it out in your breast pocket in advance to check everything looks spick and span!

A pocket square isn’t just for formal wear – they can look great with casual attire too!

There are so many different kinds of pocket square folds – from the rose pocket square fold to the puff fold, presidential fold, stairs fold, and many more! Start by mastering the basics we’ve outlined here and then experiment with different pocket square folds until you find your favourite.

The golden rule of storing your pocket squares is to give them a bit of love and TLC – if not then the next time you come to use your pocket square it will be a crumpled mess, impossible to fold and certainly not worthy of formal occasions!

If you can store your pocket square flat and wrinkle free you will save time and energy next time you use it as you won’t be met with folds and creases in all the wrong places!

Different fabrics will have different cleaning requirements so ensure you read the care label and follow the instructions to keep your pocket square pristine.

A classic pocket square made of cotton is the easiest to care for as they are most likely to be able to be machine washed. A silk pocket square requires more TLC and may need to be dry cleaned.

Whatever you do, just remember not to leave them in the bottom corner of the laundry basket, scrunched up in a wrinkly ball!

From silk pocket squares to a classic pocket square, patterned pocket square or solid colour – there’s a lot to choose from!

Pick a pattern or colour that is right for you and your suit and reflects your personality. Consider any colour themes you may have at the wedding, what your other half is wearing, flowers etc. but also any colour accents in your suit, shirt or tie that you might want to highlight.

Consider the fabric you choose – a silk pocket square can complete a sophisticated formal look but silk pocket squares are trickier to fold compared to a classic pocket square made from cotton. If you find the pocket square folds difficult to master it may be wise to stick to a classic cotton pocket square for your jacket pocket.

The pocket square can elevate a suit – the right splash of colour from a jacket breast pocket really can make all the difference to your look and truly be the icing on the cake!

Practice makes perfect! Once you’ve chosen the perfect fabric for you, tried a different pocket square fold or two, and decided on your chosen fold, make sure you practice and try out how it sits in your breast pocket.

Different fabric and pocket square folds can sit differently dependent on your breast pocket size and fabric – so try out what works best for you and your suit and before you know it you’ll have the perfect finished product for your big day!