Should Ties and Pocket Squares Match?

Should ties and pocket squares match? Fashion pundits have debated this question since ties began in the 17th century. As experts in producing high-quality men's fashion accessories, we are here to answer this question. Let’s take an in-depth look at whether you should match your tie to your pocket square and the best way to do it.

Should Your Pocket Square Match Your Tie?

We recommend that your tie and pocket square complement each other rather than match exactly. Choosing different shades, patterns, or textures adds depth and style to your outfit.

We often admire fashion for its creativity. However, wearing a matching tie and pocket square can look too simple. While your tie should complement your pocket square, making them the same eliminates the opportunity for a more sophisticated outfit.

Pair your tie and pocket square with other accessories to upgrade your outfit and dress like an Italian gentleman. 

Try a crisp non-iron shirt,  unique bow ties or cufflinks, or a stylish tie bar or lapel pin. 

How to Match Ties and Pocket Squares

Knowing how to pair ties and pocket squares can elevate your look and add a touch of sophistication. The right combination creates balance, contrast, and style without looking too coordinated. Let's look at how you can match them easily.

Your pocket square should accent your tie.

Your pocket square should complement at least one of the colours in your tie, but the tone doesn't necessarily have to match. It should give a subtle accent to your tie, which could mean displaying a slightly lighter or darker tone. 

For example:

• A navy tie pairs well with a light blue, silver, or patterned navy pocket square.

• A burgundy tie with a gold, paisley, or deep red pocket square looks sharp.

• A dark green tie works best with a cream, floral, or sage green pocket square.

• A charcoal grey tie complements a light grey, white, or subtle geometric design.

Keep it simple with designs.

Mastering the art of sharp style means understanding the nuances of accessorising. Include only one or two statement pieces in one outfit—everything else should support the background. This means you must choose: Will your tie be the statement or your pocket square? Pair a bold pocket square with a bold tie to avoid cancelling each other.

Don't mix and match materials.

If you're wearing a cotton or linen tie, don't wear a satin pocket square (and vice versa). The only time it's acceptable to wear contrasting fabrics is if you're wearing a white cotton or linen pocket square. White cotton and linen pocket squares tend to match all ties, but if you want to make a lasting statement, you might want to get more creative. 

Choose analogous colours.

Analogous colours are next to each other on the colour wheel. If you want to think outside the box and avoid using the same colour pocket square as your tie, choose an analogous colour. A great example is pairing a lavender tie with a navy blue pocket square.

When Should You Wear a Pocket Square?

A pocket square adds style and personality to an outfit. It works well with three-piece suits but consider how formal your outfit is if you wear a two-piece suit or blazer with chinos. 

A pocket square adds a smart touch to a shirt and dress shoes. But if you wear a T-shirt and trainers, it's best to leave it out. Always match the pocket square to subtle tones in your suit, blazer, or lining for a well-balanced look.

How to Fold a Pocket Square

The fold style depends on the occasion. Ironing might seem unnecessary, but it makes a difference. Straight folds are simple, while puffs need a bit more flair. 

Don't overthink it—place it neatly and adjust it for a natural look. But if you want to master these folds, we've got you covered. Let's examine each type.

1. The Simple Fold

The basic simple fold is perfect for business and black-tie events.

1. Lay your pocket square face-down.

2. Fold it in half from right to left.

3. Fold it three-quarters of the way back to the right.

4. Fold it in half from top to bottom.

5. Fold the bottom section up to the back to create a square.

6. Place it in your pocket.

2. The Puff Fold 

The flamboyant puff fold is ideal for weddings, casual suits, and creative looks.

1. Lay your pocket square face up.

2. Pinch your pocket square in the centre of the fabric and lift it.

3. As you elevate it, run your other hand down the length of the fabric with two fingers.

4. Stop three-quarters of the way down.

5. As you hold it, arrange the folded part to spread to the side to create a puff.

6. Gather the fabric at the bottom and fold it up towards the back.

7. Place it in your pocket.

3. The Single-Peak Fold 

The easy single-peak fold is great for semi-formal events and classic styling.

1. Lay your pocket square face-down in a diamond shape.

2. Fold it in half to match the left corner with the top corner and the bottom corner with the right corner.

3. Fold it in half on an angle from bottom to top.

4. Fold the right corner into the middle just past the centre point.

5. Fold the left corner over to the right to create a cone.

6. Fold the bottom section up to the back. Adjust it according to the length of your pocket.

7. Place it in your pocket.

4. The Two-Peak Fold 

The more stylish two-peak fold is best for adding flair to your formal and semi-formal outfits.

1. Lay your pocket square face-down in a diamond shape.

2. Fold it in half from bottom to top.

3. Position the top point so it lies slightly askew to the right side of the bottom point. This creates the two peaks.

4. Take the right side and fold it three-quarters in towards the left.

5. Fold the left side towards the right to overlap the fabric.

6. Fold the excess fabric around to the back.

7. Fold the bottom section up to the back. Adjust it according to the length of your pocket.

8. Place the pocket square in your jacket pocket.

5. The Three-Peak Fold 

The elegant three-peak fold is perfect for weddings and statement styling.

1. Lay your pocket square face-down in a diamond shape.

2. Fold it in half from bottom to top so that two points meet.

3. Take the bottom right point and fold it up to the top point. Position it slightly askew to the left of the top point to create two peaks.

4. Take the bottom left point and fold it up askew to the right of both peaks, creating three peaks.

5. Fold the right corner towards the middle, just past the centre point.

6. Take the left corner and fold it over just past the centre point. The pocket square should look like a cone.

7. Fold the bottom section up to the back. Adjust it according to the length of your pocket.

8. Place it in your jacket pocket.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you supposed to match your tie and pocket square?

No, your tie and pocket square should complement each other, not match exactly, to add depth and contrast to your outfit.

How do you wear a pocket square with a tie?

For a balanced look, choose a pocket square that picks up a colour from your tie but in a different shade, pattern, or texture.

Should you wear a pocket square with a bow tie?

Yes, a pocket square adds elegance to a bow tie ensemble. Still, it should contrast or complement rather than match exactly.

What should your tie match?

Your tie should complement your shirt, suit, and pocket square, ensuring all elements work together without looking identical.