Handkerchiefs and Pocket Squares

[RaasAlHayya]

Not always. It's like anytything else.
I've just returned from calling hours for a deceased friend, and took the time to do a four point fold.

If ever there was a time for careful folding, this is it. My sincere condolences on your loss, Scot.

--Leslie

 

[carebear]

Thought I'd use the old search-a-roonie function rather than kick start a new thread.

Bought a few (white, black and a multi-color with black, grey/silver, blue and white) the other day while seeking out ties at Burlington coats.

Of course I didn't take a picture but my first wear last week (with my suit to work) went real well.

Lots of compliments on the whole look, which I'd worn before sans square. No "too fancy" just "wow, you look good", "is that a new suit?" "very stylish Mr. Carberry".

I did a casual 3-pointed stuff like in Feraud's 2nd picture, which was the only one I could figure out before heading out the door. I figured the pictures and links in this thread might come in handy for others.

 

[Nick D]

Something I've wondered about pocket squares, is it acceptable to take it out and use it as a kerchief, or are they simply there for looks and not utility? I need a cloth to polish my rimless monocle, since it doesn't have a "handle" and gets prints around the edge, and it would be nice to only have one cloth.

 

[carebear]

I carry a handkerchief for actual use, regardless of the pocketsquare.

It probably started as a colorful way to carry a necessity, but I consider it more like a tie than something for use.

 

[woodyinnyc]

My father always said to carry 2 handkerchiefs, one he used as a pocket square, and the other in a pants pocket. As he used to say" One to show, and one to blow",

 

[Nick D]

Thanks for the info.

 

[Feraud]

A hankie is an easy way to dress up an outfit.
I recently purchased a few silks in different colors to go with tie/shirt colors.
My order included black, brown, navy, red.

 

[Cobden]

I've always subscribed to the view that it shouldn't be used (with two exceptions), but should look like you use it, as in not too neat in the pocket - not covered in whatever.

Two exceptions - crying women and wiping sweat of one's brow

 

[Mr. Rover]

My suits are never complete without a hanky in the pocket. I'm usually too lazy to be creative and use a white cotton or linen one and just stick it in with the points out. They go with everything.

 

[SinatraStyle]

Something I've wondered about pocket squares, is it acceptable to take it out and use it as a kerchief, or are they simply there for looks and not utility? I need a cloth to polish my rimless monocle, since it doesn't have a "handle" and gets prints around the edge, and it would be nice to only have one cloth.

It's up to you. I was in Korea last week and was happy to see how well people dress on a daily basis. They haven't bought into the "business casual" disease and still wear suits to the office. I only saw a couple of pocket squares, but the gentleman on the plane next to me took his out to clean his glasses and then stuffed it back into his pocket. As long as the dirty portion of the handkerchief isn't exposed while in your pocket I don't see a problem with this. (The fingerprints from your monacle shouldn't be a problem ) One other thing to mention - if you are using this to clean your glasses (or monacle), just stuff it back into your pocket. Don't take the time for intricate folds.

 

[Jovan]

I like mine with no frills. Crisp, square, and only a sliver showing.

 

[Wolfmanjack]

Well, you have four components that converge upon the "V" zone (so named by Jean-Claude Colban, proprietor of Charvet), shirt, tie, jacket and pocket square. The rule is; there are no rules. I've done all solid, all pattern and a mix, with each looking pretty good. That said, I subscribe to the maxim less is more .

Tomasso, sometimes less is way too much, case in point:

These sets have been popping-up on my OFAS searches lately. Anyone care to comment?

 

[carebear]

Tomasso, sometimes less is way too much, case in point:

These sets have been popping-up on my OFAS searches lately. Anyone care to comment?

I'd wear that, the blue favors my eyes.

 

[Feraud]

These sets have been popping-up on my OFAS searches lately. Anyone care to comment?

I am not too fond of the pattern but like a matching tie and hankie.
The cufflinks might be too much..

Just got these two at at thrift store.

 

[Wolfmanjack]

I like the burgundy with the white pattern. Looks like linen; is it?

I prowl the local thrift store on a regular basis and have found some treasures.

 

[anon`]

Ew. Something ain't right anytime the tie and pocket square match perfectly. To say nothing of the cufflinks...

 

[Feraud]

I like the burgundy with the white pattern. Looks like linen; is it?

I prowl the local thrift store on a regular basis and have found some treasures.

It is cotton.
I am glad to read people still visit thrift stores. It seems like everything is on Ebay nowadays.

 

[Benny Holiday]

Whilst I'm really enjoying this thread, I gotta but in and be fftopic: just to say how much I dig your avatar, Feraud, and especially that fine fedora. Is it a Whippet?

 

[Feraud]

Whilst I'm really enjoying this thread, I gotta but in and be fftopic: just to say how much I dig your avatar, Feraud, and especially that fine fedora. Is it a Whippet?

Thank you and yes it is a Whippet. Purchased from a Lounge member.
It is my new favorite hat! When I wake up in the morning I now consider my clothes based on the hat! lol

 

[<>Will Ayces<>]

Never been a fan of the matching tie/square combo...

Also definately not a fan of the following...

Kinda goes in the same catagory of pre-tied bowties...