How to Choose Mens Pocket Squares for Weddings, Business, and Casual Looks

The pocket square is one of the smallest but most powerful accessories in menswear. Whether you are dressing for that formal wedding, an important business meeting, or a relaxed weekend gathering, the right pocket square will elevate your style with color, texture, and personality. This guide breaks down what to consider for different occasions, helping you select the ideal piece every time.

The Basics Understanding of Men's Pocket Squares

Before getting into any details with occasions, it is important to understand what makes a pocket square work for men so well. The pocket square is not just an accessory; it completes the look of a blazer or a suit jacket. Pocket squares are made of silk, cotton, and linen. Each one shows different levels of shine, structure, and formality. You aren't going for your pocket square to precisely match your tie but to complement the overall outfit.

How to Choose Men's Pocket Squares for Weddings

Weddings are formal events, so pocket squares will definitely be in order for the groom, groomsmen, and guests alike. When determining mens pocket squares for a wedding:

• Use silk or satin: Silk is the most traditional and classy choice for weddings. Its sheen photographs really well and instantly raises the bar on the overall suit.

• Coordinate, Don’t Match: If you wear a tie, don't use the same pattern on your pocket square. Instead, choose a pocket square that picks up one or two colors from the tie or boutonnière.

• Use soft romantic colors: Consider ivory, pale blue, blush pink, or pale gold for weddings. These colors go perfectly with the classic suits and exude understated sophistication.

• Choose a Fancy Fold: These include the presidential fold or the classic puff fold, which works nicely for weddings. These folds look refined without looking too formal.

How to Choose Men's Pocket Squares for Business Attire

Pocket squares for business should look professional and composed. The trick is to make the pocket square subtle, yet sophisticated.

Choose Cotton or Linen

These fabrics feature a clean, structured look that fits corporate dress codes without being flashy.

Keep Patterns Minimal

Solid colors, thin stripes, or small geometric patterns are best. Avoid loud prints that may detract from the professional atmosphere.

Use Neutrals or Muted Tones

Colors such as navy, charcoal, white, or burgundy go well with most common business suits. A crisp white pocket square is always a classic business choice.

Utilize Simple Folds

A straight fold or one-point fold adds polish without drawing too much attention, which is perfect for presentations, interviews, and meetings.

How to Choose Men's Pocket Squares for Casual Looks

Casual outfits give you more room and creativity. Here, the pocket square for men acts as more of a personality statement than any formality cue.

Play with Textured Fabrics

Linen, cotton, wool blends, and even denim pocket squares can complement casual blazers and sport coats.

Play with Pattern and Color 

Polka dots, paisley, florals, or abstract designs go well for casual events. Bright colors or bold contrasts can add a fun twist to an outfit.

Select Loose Folds

The puff fold or the casual "scrunch" fold works for laid-back occasions. These folds add volume and texture without requiring any precision in making them.

Match the Mood, Not the Outfit 

Coordination for casual occasions is much more flexible. The pocket square should be selected keeping in mind your personality or the essence of the occasion.

Tips for Choosing Men's Pocket Squares That Work for Any Occasion

No matter what the event type will be, these universal guidelines will help you choose the perfect pocket square:

• Aim for complementing colors, not matching sets.

• Consider the level of formality in the occasion.

• Pay attention to fabric texture in relation to your suit.

• Begin with classic colors if you're new: white, navy, and burgundy.

• Unobtrusively emphasize your personality with pocket squares.