A pocket square doesn't need to be silk. A cotton batik bandana folds neatly, adds a hand-dyed pattern to a plain jacket and costs less than most specialty squares. Here are four easy folds.
Best Size
A regular ~21" bandana is the right size for a pocket square. Anything larger gets bulky. Shop regular bandanas, or the men's bandana collection.
4 Pocket Square Folds
- The Square (presidential). Fold in half, then in half again, then fold into thirds to fit the pocket. Clean and formal.
- The Diagonal. Fold in half into a triangle, then fold the corners in. Place the point up for a sharper look.
- The Puff. Pinch the center, pull it up and tuck the base into the pocket. Relaxed and casual, and the best way to show off a bold pattern.
- The Multi-Point. Fold into a triangle, then fold the second triangle over the first so the points show at different heights.
Matching It to a Jacket
- Navy or gray blazer: a red, orange or earthy print adds contrast.
- Black jacket: a lighter or brightly colored pattern.
- Tan or linen: deeper blues and blacks, such as Black Mirage.
Care
Wash it cold, on its own, for the first washes, as dark colors can release some extra dye. See the first-wash guide.
More
Why swap a plain handkerchief for batik? Read the handkerchief upgrade, or browse gifts for men.
New: the 27" mid-size bandana. For a scarf or head wrap rather than a pocket square, the 27" ($35) gives more room. Shop 27" bandanas.
