12 Of The Best Pocket Squares To Elevate Your Formal Wear (2022 Edition)

If you want to make your suit or blazer-clad semi-formal ensemble pop, a pocket square will work wonders.

Putting fabric in your front pocket is an ancient concept many cultures indulge in. It’s a timeless classic (a little bit like Rick Astley’s ‘Never Gonna Give You Up,’ kind of). The simple yet eye-grabbing nature of the best pocket squares transforms your outfit from average to astounding instantly. And you get to showcase your personal style at the same time.

man holding a pocket square
campbellsofbeauly / Instagram

The best pocket squares feel good, look good, and are built to last. They come in many shapes and sizes, which can make choosing the right men’s pocket square somewhat mind-boggling.

Like almost everything in this world, the best pocket squares come in varying degrees of quality (some will literally fray or fall apart within hours). But, never fear because we’re here to save the day.

We’ve made you a list of the very best pocket squares in existence and added a few top tips. Get ready for every pocket square occasion to be perfect.

Before you look at our dapper selection of suit-enhancing fabric, it’s worth learning how to fold a pocket square for the most eye-popping results.

Okay, ready to find your dream pocket square? Let’s get started.

 

man wearing a linen suit and a straw hat, looking down, holding his pants
mr.mertcelik / Instagram

Sporting a subtle yet super stylish geometric floral pattern, this men’s pocket square will make any groom and his merry men turn heads on a wedding day. Lavish to the touch, the classic ivory tone works well with just about every suit color or style imaginable. Unless you’re going for that John Travolta in ‘Saturday Night Fever’ look, that is.

Material: Woven Silk | Colors available: Ivory | Size: 12 inches

Tie Bar Opulent Ivory Pocket Square

Clad with classic retro polka dots, this one’s ideal for mods and fellas partial to a little vintage fashion. This elegantly white-trimmed pocket square will make even the most basic of blazers stand out from the crowd. Tom Ford is known for unrivaled attention to detail and lightweight silk-twill finish. And this slick little number is no exception.

Material: Silk | Colors available: Black with White Polka Dots | Size: 15.4 inches

Tom Ford Silk-Twill Polka
 Dot

Gucci is a brand synonymous with taste, style, and affluent living. Pretty much everything the brand makes is striking, eye-catching, and ahead of the curve—a lot like this patterned pocket square. Revel in the luxury of a lavish silk-twill finished with a tastefully contrasting bee pattern and webbing stripes. This is hands down our favorite designer pocket square right now.

Material: Silk | Colors available: White (patterned) | Size: 17.7 inches

Gucci Silk-Twill Printed Pocket Square

Looking for some of the best pocket squares that stand out without completely overshadowing the rest of your outfit? This Bali medallion patterned offering from the Tie Bar is what you need. Boasting a soft linen touch and a quality finish, this is a proud addition to our best men’s pocket squares list. A fresh take on traditional paisley patterns has been achieved.

Material: Linen | Colors available: Blue| Size: 12 inches

Tie Bar Bali Medallion

J Crew knows how to put together original yet outlandish patterns. They always seem to work with a range of styles and color choices, too—sorcery. A testament to J.Crew’s forward-thinking versatility, this pure Italian silk pocket square sports a gold-tinted pattern. It works wonders with wedding wear, smartly tailored suits, and semi-casual blazers. A square for almost every occasion.

Material: Silk | Colors available: Blue| Size: 12 inches

The best pocket squares are the perfect way to add a little punch to a dark or pastel suit. Inspired by the functional style of the 1800s, this silk number is clad with a striking arrangement of classic stripes with a slick modern trim. An amazing accessory for weddings and smart-casual dining situations alike.

Material: Silk | Colors available: Blue, Black, Brown | Size: 12 inches

If you’re in search of a monogrammed pocket square with a forgiving touch and a solid finish, this has your name on it. Literally.

The best pocket square’s classic white tone works well with pretty much any suit combination you can throw together. And if you’re a groom looking to add a little personal flair, you can kit your groomsmen out with their very own initialed accessories.

Material: Linen | Colors available: |White with Black Lettering  Size: 12 inches

EmbroiderabeLinens Custom Monogrammed Pocket Square

Finally, a new spin on the iconic 60s polka dot. This bold woolen pocket square sports a luscious olive green finish that’s sure to add a spot of Italian flair to your suit jacket or blazer. Take it for a spin at your best friend’s wedding or evening drinks down at your local bar with the fellas. The pattern is captivating without being brash, and the quality is outstanding—especially when you consider the price tag.

Material: Wool | Colors available: Green| Size: 13 inches

Todd Snyder Bold Dot Square In Green

Are you the kind of guy who values precision? Then this is the best pocket square product for you (we think it’s a mild stroke of genius). It’s crafted from smooth satin, and you get to choose from a number of striking colors. After you stock up on colors, the mighty DapperTie will fold neatly into your blazer pocket with ease—it looks pretty darn good too.

Material: Satin | Colors available: Blue, Green, Red, Black, +| Size: 13 inches

TheDapperTie

A traditional addition to our best pocket squares list, this simple yet solid sky blue accessory is way more than affordable. Level up your suit game on any special occasion, especially Christenings and weddings. Not only is this men’s pocket square an excellent value for money, but it’s also shiny and wrinkle resistant—bonus.

Material: Silk | Colors available: Sky blue| Size: 12.6 inches

SHLAX & WING Solid Light Blue Azure Silk

For the bold gentleman who likes to make a statement, this tasty number from Rubinacci is nothing short of legendary. The deep blue background and show-stopping Aztec design from Codex Mendoza don’t mess around. This amazing men’s pocket square will make you the talk of the room on every occasion.

Material: Silk-twill | Colors available: Deep blue| Size: 17.7 inches

Rubinacci Mendoza Silk-Twill

Our overall best pocket square is this lavish allrounder from Tom Ford. It’s also an excellent style investment. Floral patterns are flowing, pleasing to the eye, and completely timeless, making them a safe yet sleek choice for any fashion-conscious modern gent. This particular pattern is wonderfully detailed and flows beautifully. For extra style points, the turquoise trim is so defined it will maximize outfit impact time after time after time.

Material: Silk-twill | Colors available: White with Multicolored Print| Size: 15.4 inches

Tom Ford Floral Silk-Twill Pocket Square

What To Look For When Searching For The Best Pocket Squares

Now that you’re acquainted with the best pocket squares money can buy, here are a few extra top tips. Make the perfect pocket square choice for you based on your personal sense of style.

Use

When you’re choosing men’s pocket squares, it’s important to consider how often you’re likely to wear them.

If you need a pocket square for a wedding, for example, you may only wear it once or twice. But, if you’re fond of a little formal flair, a pocket square might become a signature part of your everyday look. They’re a fail-safe way to spice up your work outfits too.

So, considering how often you’re going to use it will influence how much you’re willing to spend. If you’re going to become a regular pocket square wearer, you might even buy two or three.

Man wearing a suit with his hand in his pocket, standing in front of a bookcase
thetiebar / Instagram

Material

Another key thing to look for when buying a pocket square is material. The most common materials of the best pocket squares are cotton, silk, and linen. Each one offers a different finish.

Before you commit to one of the best pocket squares, take a look at the material. Make your choice depending on whether you’re looking for a matte-like finish or a shiny silk aesthetic. The style of material will also dictate the feel of your pocket square—cotton and linen are generally a little coarser than silk.

Color

Okay, you’ve decided on frequency and material. Now you should decide which color will best complement your suit, blazer, or overall style choices.

Comb through your wardrobe, from your socks to your hat, to make an informed choice. Which of the best pocket square colors will make the biggest impact?

Pattern

Finally, a pattern that makes a solid impact is also a key ingredient to an eye-catching formal outfit.

Plain, paisley, and polka dot—the best pocket squares come in many wonderful arrangements. Depending on the rest of your ensemble, you can be as crazy or conservative as you wish.

If you’re wearing a multi-colored suit and a polka dot shirt, for example, a plain pocket square might be the calm in the storm. On the flip side, if you’re wearing an understated shirt and blazer combo, a little patterned number will serve as your centerpiece. 

FAQ

    • There are several ways to fold a pocket square, and fortunately, many of them are easier than folding a tie. With a swift, simple fold or two, you can make your pocket square look as dapper as the day is long. Here is the most common way to fold a pocket square:

      1. Start with the pocket square facing downwards
      2. Fold the square in half from right to left
      3. Fold the bottom edge up just under halfway
      4. Place it in your front pocket with the triangular end on display

      Our essential guide on how to fold a pocket square will tell you all you need to know.

      • The best way to store a pocket square is to flatten them out, fold them neatly in half (not too tight) and stack them in a dedicated drawer or box. Arrange them as you would paper or folders in a filing cabinet.

        Taking this approach will ensure your pocket squares are accessible when you need them while keeping them in tip-top condition.

        • In the modern age, pocket squares are pretty much used for style purposes. A simple pocket square can make a dull suit sing or add a little pizza to a semi-formal blazer.

          Like many timeless fashion accessories, pocket squares give you the freedom to express your personality, creativity, and unique sense of style.