The Summer Edit
Style guide
How to Fold a Pocket Square
Wondering how to fold a pocket square? There are countless guides and tips available, ranging from the straightforward to the intricate. At John Henric, we believe there's no incorrect way to fold a pocket square. Rather than adhering strictly to guidelines, let your personality guide you. The only consideration is the formality of the occasion where you'll be wearing it. Adding a pocket square to your jacket pocket is a simple way to introduce variety to your suit and refresh your overall appearance. The more frequently you wear a pocket square in different settings, the more confident you'll become in experimenting with bold folding styles. However, as with many things, the principle of 'less is more' often prevails. Watch the video below for tips from John Henric and our friends on folding a pocket square with ease, or scroll down for our step-by-step guide on classic folding methods.
Learn How to Fold a Pocket Square – Step by Step
In the following illustrations, we present our favourite ways to fold pocket squares. These classic methods are not only the most common but essentially the only ones you need to master. We hope this guide helps you become an expert and eliminates the question of how to fold a handkerchief. Best of luck!
The Puff Fold
This is the most common and versatile method. The puff fold should appear relaxed and works well with most fabrics, though silk is our preferred choice. It's suitable for nearly all events and situations, whether paired with a jacket, blazer, or even a vintage denim jacket.
- Lay the pocket square on a flat surface with the outside facing up.
- Gently lift the pocket square off the table, allowing the edges and corners to hang down.
- Fold the base with the edges and place the cloth in the pocket so the edges are hidden.
- Adjust it so it fills the pocket and protrudes slightly, giving a casual appearance.
Presidential Fold or James Bond Fold
This folding style offers a clean and sophisticated look, ideal for a dark suit or tuxedo. Known as the straight fold, it is considered formal but, as demonstrated in the video above, it can also complement casual outfits, adhering to the "less is more" philosophy. The James Bond style is a straight-across technique that ensures a simple, tidy appearance.
- Lay the pocket square on a flat surface.
- Fold the cloth in half horizontally, focusing on symmetry.
- Make another symmetrical fold, this time vertically.
- Tuck into the pocket, allowing a distinct square rectangle to emerge from the top
The JFK Fold or Crown Fold
The most formal of folds, perfect for weddings and similar formal dinners. While it suits formal attire, it also pairs well with a blazer, jacket, or sports coat. This structured fold can be achieved with almost any material: silk, linen, or cotton.
- Lay the pocket square on a flat surface.
- Fold it in half by bringing the left corner over to the right.
- Fold the lower corner so it ends approximately 1 cm to the right of the top corner.
- Fold the right corner so it's just slightly to the right of the other two corners.
- Fold in the lower edge to fit the pocket square into your pocket.
