Is it possible to customize pocket squares?
Considering the varied styles and trends of pocket squares, it is but obvious that different people may have different preferences as far as material, size, and design are concerned. Most pocket square manufacturers often accept feedbacks from customers prior to making the pocket square. This ensures that the customer gets the exact pocket square that he had in mind. Often the customization depends on two parameters; functionality and personification. Another contributing factor is the design of the suit, shirt and tie. Depending on the shade of the suit, the thickness of the lapels, and the folding technique being incorporated, the material and the color of the pocket square can be decided. Some people intend getting a personal embellishment embroidered or embossed on the pocket square. This could include the owner’s initials, a family crest or some such memento. If the pocket square is intended to be a gift, the sender’s and the recipient’s names could be embroidered on this clothing accessory.
Back to top
Is the pocket square a good substitute for the boutonniere?
For most formal occasions, a pocket square can be an acceptable substitute for a boutonniere. The boutonniere is essentially the flower that is worn above the left breast pocket of a coat. This fashion accessory is mandatory for the family members at a wedding reception. In the absence of a boutonniere, you can easily wear a pocket square. In such cases, the pocket square can be embellished with miniature flowers and flower petals. It would also be advisable to use pocket squares incorporating a floral design. The only time when a pocket square cannot be replaced with a boutonniere is when the flower has a traditional or religious significance to the event.
Back to top
Do pocket squares come in any shapes other than square?
While a pocket square could be fashioned out of a rectangular or circular piece of cloth, it is most often made in a square shape as the name suggests. Formal pocket squares have a particular shape to imbibe, which is seen above the rim of the coat pocket. This can be best achieved with a square shaped cloth. Additionally, most of the folding techniques have evolved taking into consideration the square shapes. Pocket squares are required to exude a look of balance and stability, with out any lopsided or awkward orientation. This is possible only with square pocket squares. Another reason for the square shape is to maintain uniformity across the world for these personal decoration items.
Back to top
Can pocket squares substitute handkerchiefs?
A pocket square, in its most basic form, is essentially a glorified handkerchief. Therefore, in all respects, you can use a pocket square as a substitute for a handkerchief. When used in the absence of a handkerchief, the pocket square should preferably not be made of silk. Silk does not absorb moisture and is also not very friendly on damp skin. A pocket square used as a handkerchief should incorporate linen or cotton fabrics. As and when needed, the pocket square can be used to perform all handkerchief tasks such as wiping perspiration, or dabbing the face. It goes without saying that though not the norm, pocket squares can be used as handkerchiefs. When doing so, experts recommend that the square be folded back into its original shape and then placed in the pocket.
Back to top
What are the current trends in pocket square design?
Pocket squares have evolved a lot since their initial restricted usage centuries ago. The pocket square of today incorporates varied forms, from being a simple fashion embellishment to performing almost all the functions of the common handkerchief. Nowadays, pocket squares are used only in extremely formal gatherings. Even at these functions, the pocket square is not a mandatory accessory and its usage is entirely up to the guest’s discretion. The pocket square, in the present scenario, can actually indicate to an observer the nature of the event being attended by the wearer. A black, white, or light blue pocket square with somber tones would be worn to a grave occasion such as a funeral or a formal occasion like a black tie dinner. On the other hand, if the wearer dons a bright, glossy, or multicolored pocket square, he is most probably going for a joyous or festive affair such as a wedding, birthday, anniversary, or just about any party. As far as the pocket square folding techniques are concerned, almost all the folds are used equally frequently. Pocket squares are worn by people of all ages and this accessory has come to represent the style consciousness of the wearer. One universal trend is that the pocket square has to complement the tie and not match it.
Back to top
Does the usage of pocket squares vary across different continents?
Pocket squares usage, while initially being predominant only in Western countries, has now acquired the status of often-found usage across the globe. However, in different countries, the prevalence of pocket squares could vary to a great extent. The styles and trends, show minimal differences, and are basically the same. The pocket squares are used according to the cut of the suit, the color of the shirt and tie and the occasion for which the fashion accessory is used. The main determinants remain the same, with a sad or serious occasion demanding a pocket square with a sober color and design; a festive function would call for a colorful and vibrant pocket square. Many world leaders as well as Hollywood superstars and international superstars have been seen time and again wearing pocket squares.
Back to top
What are pre-folded pocket squares?
Finding yourself hard-pressed to fold that unwieldy pocket square when you are already late for a party? Pre-folded pocket squares are the answer. Pre-folded pocket squares, as the name suggests, are those pocket squares that are already folded into the desired fold. These pocket squares can be directly inserted into the pocket at a moment’s notice. The pre-folded characteristics ensure that the folds are sharp and neat, requiring minimal maintenance. While the breadth of the pocket square tends to remain the same, the height can be adjusted depending on the depth of the pocket. Also, the user has the option of choosing the most apt amount of material being seen above the rim of the pocket. Pre-folded pocket squares come in all the materials such as silk, cotton, or linen, as in the case of normal pocket squares. Additionally, they also include a wide array of colors and designs. These pocket squares can be used with formal suits, sports coats, and blazers. With pre-folded pocket squares, the question of ironing, starching, and folding are worries of the past.
Back to top
What are perfumed pocket squares?
Some pocket squares could be perfumed. The location of the pocket square, right in front of the chest, makes it the most vantage place for applying of various kinds of scents. While some pocket squares may be made from pre-scented fabrics, other pocket squares can be given a generous dose of perfume at any point of time. Additionally, there is no restriction on the type of perfume used, a choice that depends completely on the user’s taste. Perfumed pocket squares boost the wearer’s confidence in situations that call for close proximity. Perfumes can be applied to pocket squares of almost any material. The idea of offering pocket squares with perfume has been in existence for years.
Back to top
Who are the most popular fashion designers of pocket squares?
The popularity of pocket squares can be garnered from the fact that many of the world’s top fashion designers and clothing houses have lent their names to varied kinds of pocket squares. These pocket squares have been favorites among most fashion aficionados the world over. The designer pocket squares are made with high dedication to details and quality; the buyer is sure of a long lasting, aesthetically pleasing product. For example, the pocket square from Duchamp of London has been made from 100 percent Egyptian cotton and is hand made as well as hand rolled in Italy. The veteran fashion designer, Tommy Hilfiger, has also displayed his talents in the pocket square arena. Popular pocket square brand names include Emilio Pucci, Carrot & Gibbs, and many others. Truly, pocket square designs have come a long way in the road of fashion.
Back to top
Can a silk pocket square be worn with a tweed jacket?
Wearing a silk pocket square with a tweed jacket has numerous connotations and is an apt example of the varied tastes in the usage of this clothing accessory. While some people strongly advocate this match up, others would never be caught wearing a silk pocket square with a tweed jacket. The rationale of those who oppose pocket squares being used with tweed jackets is that an ultra-formal accessory such as a pocket square should not be coupled with a casual coat, such as a tweed jacket. If used in such a combination, experts recommend that the pocket square should have solid colors, which would bring out the sober colors of a tweed jacket. Most fashion aficionados say that the pocket square renders a vibrant feel to an otherwise staid tweed jacket. When this combination is incorporated, it is advisable to go in for a puff fold pocket square.
Back to top