How to Fold a Pocket Square 4 Different Ways

Master the art with just a few simple techniques.

folding pocket square into suit pocket
hobo_018 / Getty Images.

Think of it like the final ingredient in a perfectly curated recipe. You’ve already got the suit, the shirt, and the tie—now, it’s time to bring it all together. A pocket square allows you to infuse a little personality into your look, whether you’re playing with patterns, adding a pop of color, or experimenting with different folds. Not quite sure how to pull off said folds? In this guide, we’ll walk you through four different methods for folding your pocket square with ease and confidence.

Be it for a wedding or another formal affair, a pocket square is the kind of finishing touch that instantly elevates an outfit, turning something classic and understated into something uniquely yours. Will you choose the winged puff fold or the three-point fold? Let your own style preferences be your guide!

Scroll on to learn how to fold a pocket square with just a few simple techniques.

Winged Puff Fold

rob franco wedding pin pocket square
Credit:

Bonnie Sen Photography

The winged puff method is a unique, simple way to fold a pocket square. It features a triangular shape with two folds down the center.

  1. Lay the pocket square flat, so it resembles a diamond.
  2. Fold the top corner down to the bottom corner.
  3. Fold the right and left corners into the bottom corner, making a smaller diamond.
  4. Fold the left, right, and bottom corners of the diamond into the center.
  5. Tuck it into the pocket with the unfolded corner facing out.
winged puff pocket square
Credit: Corinne Mucha

Three Point Fold

man dressed in a suit with a colorful pocket square and bow tie
Credit:

Anchiy / Getty Images

If you want a more complex look for your pocket square, opt for the three point fold. This technique produces three folded peaks.

  1. Lay the pocket square flat so it resembles a diamond.
  2. Fold the bottom corner up to meet the top corner.
  3. Fold the left corner up to the right of the top point, making a second peak.
  4. Fold the right corner up to the left of the top point, making a third peak.
  5. Tuck it into the pocket with the folds facing out.
three point
Credit: Corinne Mucha

One Point Fold

blue suit with floral tie and pocket square
Credit:

The Happy Bloom

The one point fold is a scaled-down version of the three point fold. This popular design features one crisp corner that's easily tucked into a suit or tuxedo jacket.

  1. Lay the pocket square flat so it resembles a diamond.
  2. Fold the bottom corner up to meet the top corner.
  3. Fold side points in just past the center, aligning the folded edge, making 90-degree angles on each side.
  4. Tuck it into the pocket with the folds facing in.
one point
Credit: Corinne Mucha

Presidential or Flat Fold

something blue gray blue bowtie pocket square and ribbon
Credit:

Brumley & Wells Photography

The presidential pocket square fold is also known as the flat fold. This timeless fold can be worn during a variety of occasions, including weddings.

  1. Lay the pocket square flat so it resembles a square.
  2. Fold the right side over to meet the left, making a vertical rectangle.
  3. Fold the top down just short of the bottom.
  4. Tuck it into the pocket with the folded side up.
presidential
Credit: Corinne Mucha

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When should I not wear a pocket square?

    If you are wearing a more casual outfit, you do not need to add a pocket square. A pocket square is usually reserved for more formal occasions.

  • Are pocket squares still in style?

    Yes! Pocket squares are definitely still in style. They're classic additions to wedding attire, formalwear, or business suits.

  • Is a pocket square the same thing as a handkerchief?

    Nope. A pocket square is decorative and is not a functional piece of fabric, while handkerchief is functional and is sometimes placed in the small breast pocket of a suit or tuxedo pocket.

Related Articles