Perfect Pairing: Pocket Squares

March 17, 2021

"Should I match my pocket square to my tie or cravat?"

Perfect Pairing How to Wear Pocket Squares with Cravats or Ties

There is a question we get asked a lot here at Cravat Club; "Should you match your pocket square to your tie or cravat?". Although it might seem like the easiest way to coordinate your outfit, matching your pocket square with your tie or cravat can be seen as inelegant, so read on if you're keen to exude individuality, sprezzatura, and style.

Cravat Club Pocket Square Cravat Pairings Bryn Cravat with Shishimai Pocket Square

It is generally considered more sartorially elegant to mis-match your pocket square with your cravat or necktie. This is not to say however we're suggesting you disregard your whole outfit, and completely clash colours to make it look out of place. The purpose of a pocket square is to complement the rest of your look, either by harmonising or contrasting with your outfit and other accessories. We encourage you to pair contrasting colours, textures and patterns to compliment your attire.

One important note - it appears to be more acceptable to match your cravat or tie with your pocket square outside of the UK and Europe - the US is a prime example, and can be a great option for the groom and groomsmen at weddings.

Tatsuo Japanese Tie Goutan Printed Silk Pocket Square Tatsuo Tie with Goutan Pocket Square

Devendra Paisley Silk Cravat Yufuku Japanese Pocket Square Devendra Cravat with Yufuku Pocket Square

If your pocket square has a pattern or print, try picking a colour from that palette and match it to a primary colour in your cravat or tie, to marry the elements and finish off your look.

Equally, you could choose a pocket square that is a shade lighter or darker than the core colour of your ensemble. Remember, the devil is in the detail, so why not be a little adventurous by emphasising an accent hue on a pinstripe, tartan or check suit?

Marino Blue Paisley Cravat with Deco Island Night Pocket Square Marino Cravat with Deco Island Night Pocket Square

Neptune Paisley Silk Cravat and pocket square Neptune Cravat with The Navigator IV Pocket Square

Alternatively, if you want to make your pocket square the focal point of your look, you could opt to purposely contrast your pocket square with your cravat or tie and, indeed, the rest of your outfit. Dare to experiment with vibrant colours, bold patterns and prints.

Otis Tie with Japanese Silk Pocket square Otis Tie with Miharu Pocket Square

Ryota Japanese Pink Cravat with Deco Island Dusk Pocket Square Ryota Cravat with Deco Island Dusk Pocket Square

Cravat Club Tips on Wearing Pocket Squares

Try choosing a secondary colour from your shirt, suit, or tie as the primary colour for your pocket square.
Try not to overdo patterns and textures - ensure some articles of clothing are flat colours which will accentuate the colours in your pocket square, cravat or tie.
Avoid completely matching your tie and pocket square, unless you are certain that particular look is appropriate.
Match your fold to the occasion - for formal occasions stick to the flat fold or one or two point folds. For everyday or casual occasions, inject a bit of flair with the classic puff fold, or a more flamboyant sprezzatura fold with the corners showing.

Ivan pocket watch cravat and hidden curiosities ii printed silk pocket square Ivan Cravat with Hidden Curiosities II Pocket Square

Not sure where to start? We recommend taking a look at our multiway printed silk pocket squares. These are the most versatile pocket squares, as each artist print tells a story. Made with the most intricate detail, they're bursting with a multitude of colours, and they're great value for money due to the endless possibilities on how you can fold them. You can alter the look by revealing different colours and sections of the silk square to complement the rest of your outfit.

Perfect Pairings

Why not take a look at our hand-picked suggestions on pairing your pocket square with your cravat or tie...

Saber Tiger Cravat Shishimai Kabuki Japanese Pocket Square Saber Cravat with Shishimai Pocket Square