2026.06.10 update

The Complete Guide to Folding a Pocket Square [with Video] | Tips on Choosing Materials and Colors for Different Occasions


Many people want to wear a pocket square but are unsure of the correct way to fold it.
At ISETAN MEN'S , we often receive questions from customers such as, "What are some folding techniques that are suitable for business?" and "How do the fabric choices differ between formal and casual wear?"
In this article, Isetan Shinjuku's top category specialist, Iwami, will provide a clear explanation, using photos and videos, of everything from the basics of pocket squares to choosing the right material and color for the occasion, and even some of the most common folding techniques.

Commentator
Kazuki Iwami
Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building Men's Attendant
Joined Isetan Co., Ltd. in 2009. Worked as a sales staff member for men's tailored clothing at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building for approximately 10 years. Subsequently, became a " Men's Attendant ," providing guidance across floors throughout Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building role she holds to this day. Holds numerous qualifications, including a Level 2 Customer Service and Sales Skills Certification, Image Consultant, Color Analyst, and Junior Skeletal Style Advisor.
@isetanmens_attendant


  1. How to fold a pocket square: Recommended occasions explained [with video]
  2. 1. TV Fold | A basic folding method that can be used in a wide range of situations, with a restrained flair.
    1. [Watch the video] How to fold a "TV fold"
  3. 2. Three Peaks | The most formal folding method.
    1. [Watch the video] How to fold a "Three Peaks" fold
  4. 3. Puffed Crush | Adds a touch of glamour and sophistication. Suitable for more casual occasions.
    1. [Watch the video] How to fold "Puffed Crush"
  5. ►Learn how to fold puffed bread along with puffed crush! | An easy folding method that can be done even without a table.
    1. [Watch the video] How to fold a "puffed" origami
  6. Q&A | Frequently Asked Questions
    1. Q1: Is it acceptable to wear a pocket square in a business setting?
    2. Q2: Is it acceptable to wear it at a funeral?
  7. Men's Attendant will answer your questions! For inquiries about Isetan Men's Meet Ism, please click here.

How to Choose a Pocket Square | Explanation by Material, Color, Occasion, etc. [Video Included]

A pocket square is a more formal accessory originally used in social settings and parties. When placed in the breast pocket, it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication, elevating the entire outfit. Skillfully incorporating one can create a unique and refined look in the V-zone.


The materials vary, including crisp linen, soft and lustrous silk, and moderately casual cotton. Choose according to your style and the occasion. Matching the color and pattern with your tie will create a sense of unity in the V-zone and give a more cohesive impression.


Now, let's go over the four essential folding steps and some recommended situations.

1. TV Fold

A basic folding method that can be used in a wide range of situations, with a touch of understated elegance. Perfect for business or a sophisticated jacket style!


The Complete Guide to Folding a Pocket Square
[Instructions]

1. Fold it into quarters.

With the right side facing up, spread out the pocket square and fold the center once vertically and once horizontally.

2. Fold and adjust the width further.


Fold it over to match the width of your chest pocket, ensuring the overlapping sections are even.

3. Fold the bottom to match the depth of the pocket.


If it's shallower than the depth of the pocket, it's more likely to fall inside, so adjust the length and fold it over.

4. Adjust by putting it in your pocket.


Leave it sticking out about 1 cm from the pocket and adjust it to match the angle of the pocket.
Finally, fold it inside the jacket lapel to complete the look.


[Key points for choosing materials and patterns]

A crisp linen fabric that creases easily is recommended. For formal occasions, plain white is best. White fabrics with subtle accents such as piping can be used for casual occasions.

The Complete Guide to Folding a Pocket Square

[Watch the video] How to fold a "TV fold"



2. Three Peaks

This is the most formal way to fold a suit. Suitable for formal occasions such as wearing a morning suit or tuxedo.


[Instructions]

1. Fold into a triangle.

Spread the paper out with the right side facing up, and fold it into a triangle, aligning the corners.

2. Create three vertices.


Fold the paper so that it has three vertices, shifting the corners as you go.

3. Fold it to fit the pocket size.


Fold and adjust to fit the width and depth of the chest pocket.

4. Adjust by putting it in your pocket.


Align the fabric with the pocket's angle, spreading and adjusting it so that the three corners don't overlap. Finish by bringing it out over the jacket's lapel.

[Key points for choosing materials and patterns]

The basic choice is plain white, and linen, which folds easily, is recommended. Silk is also an option if you want to add a touch of elegance, but choose according to the formality of the ceremony.

The Complete Guide to Folding a Pocket Square

[Watch the video] How to fold a "Three Peaks" fold



3. Puffed Crush

It adds a touch of elegance and sophistication. Perfect for casual occasions like weekend jacket and trousers outfits.

The Complete Guide to Folding a Pocket Square
[Instructions]

1. Pinch the center and squeeze.

Spread it out with the front side facing up, and pinch the center.

2. Fold back the pinched portion.


Grasp it with your other hand and pull, then fold it back in the middle.

3. Fold it to fit the pocket size.


Fold the center back and adjust so that the feathers and puff look nice.

4. Adjust by putting it in your pocket.


Insert the wing-like side so that it faces outwards, then spread it out and shape it.

[Key points for choosing materials and patterns]

Soft silk that drapes well is recommended. Matching the pattern and color of the tie will create a more elegant and cohesive V-zone.

The Complete Guide to Folding a Pocket Square

[Watch the video] Instructions for folding "Puffed Crush"


►Let's learn Puffed Crush along with Puffed Crush!

An easy folding method that can be done even without a table. Perfect for when you want to achieve a relaxed yet stylish look with a jacket and trousers or semi-casual outfit.

The Complete Guide to Folding a Pocket Square
[Instructions]

1. Pinch the center and squeeze.

Pinch the center of the pocket square and twist and pull it with your other hand, gripping it as you go.

2. Adjust the pinched portion.


Gently loosen the pinched part and change your grip.

3. Fold it to fit the pocket size.


Fold the bottom edge over to match the depth and shape it.

4. Adjust by putting it in your pocket.


Adjust the height and width so that it extends beyond the lapel.

[Watch the video] How to fold a "puffed" origami


Q&A | Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is it acceptable to wear a pocket square in a business setting?


A: It's not essential, but if chosen appropriately, it can be an item that enhances your impression. Choose plain white or understated designs to create a calm and composed look.


Q2: Is it acceptable to wear it at a funeral?


A: Pocket squares are originally items used to add a touch of "glamour" to social occasions and parties. Therefore, they are not worn at funerals or memorial services. Although they are part of formal wear, they are considered accessories for celebratory occasions.

 

Men's Attendant will answer your questions! For inquiries about Isetan Men's Meet Ism, please click here.

A stylist at Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building who holds professional qualifications in personal color analysis and body shape analysis®, will propose a "suitable styling" that enhances your charm based on the diagnostic results. ▶ Learn more


Check out Men's Attendant 's information on Instagram!
ISETAN MEN'S ATTENDANT
We provide information about Isetan Men's attendant services, as well as personal color analysis, men's body type style analysis®, and personal consulting services called "Meet Ism."

Production by STUDIO ALTA

Photograph: Tatsuya Ozawa (Studio Mug)

*The information in this article is current as of the publication date. The information may be revised or changed without notice.

For inquiries, please contact Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building
For inquiries via email, please click here.