The Art of Pairing Scarves and Pocket Squares for Men - Style Guide

The Art of Pairing Scarves and Pocket Squares

Accessorizing an outfit with a scarf or pocket square can add a touch of sophistication and personality. But when styled together properly, these accessories can take your look to the next level. Pairing a scarf and pocket square requires some finesse and knowledge of color theory, texture mixing, and proportion. Follow these tips to learn how to effortlessly match these accessories.

Consider Color

Color is the most important factor when pairing a scarf and pocket square. You want both pieces to complement each other while adding visual interest.

• Match colors from the same palette, like shades of blue, for a coordinated look.
• Choose colors with the same undertone, like jewel tones, to make the accessories really pop.
• Pair neutrals like black, white, gray for an elegant monochromatic vibe.
• Add contrast with complementary colors like purple and yellow.

In general, it helps to have the pocket square be a shade lighter than the scarf. This creates a pleasing composition by drawing the eye upwards.

Mind the Patterns

When matching patterns, the goal is controlled contrast. You want some visual interest, but not so much that it looks chaotic.

• Pair simple patterns like stripes, dots, or checks in the same color family.
• Choose patterns with similar scales - don't mix large paisleys with small polka dots.
• Make sure at least one piece is a solid color to anchor the accessories.
• Tie patterns together with a common color thread.

In most cases, the pocket square should have a busier pattern than the scarf. This helps maintain balance between the accessories.

Mind the Texture

Texture gives an outfit more depth and dimension. Play around with different fabric pairings for your scarf and pocket square.

• Match lightweight fabrics like silk and cotton for a soft elegant feel.
• Combine sleek satin or velvet with a nubby wool or knit for contrast.
• Pair matte and shiny fabrics for visual interest.
• Echo seasonal textures - linen and seersucker for summer, flannel and cashmere for winter.

Generally the pocket square can handle more texture than the scarf. So feel free to get creative with unique fabrics like tweed or herringbone for that accessory.

Proportion is Key

You want your scarf and pocket square to be proportionate in size. Here are some guidelines:

• The pocket square should be between 1/3 to 1/2 the size of the scarf.
• A medium-sized scarf pairs well with a standard pocket square.
• An oversized scarf calls for a slightly larger pocket square.
• Avoid pairing a massive scarf with a tiny pocket puff.

Keeping scale in mind creates visual balance. You don't want one accessory to drastically outweigh the other.

Folding and Positioning Methods

How you fold and position your pocket square makes a difference in how it coordinates with your scarf.

Pocket Square Fold Techniques

• The Square Fold - This classic fold is symmetrical and elegant. It works well with most scarf pairings.
• The Puff Fold - A casual fold that adds volume. Pairs nicely with knit scarves.
• The Two-Point Fold - An off-kilter asymmetrical fold. Adds flair with patterned scarves.
• The Three-Point Fold - A triangle fold that echoes the point of a tie. Great for business looks.

Pocket Square Styling Techniques

• Have the points of the pocket square peeking out from the blazer's breast pocket, about 1-2 inches.
• Flair the pocket square so it cascades in dramatic folds.
• Keep the pocket square flat and straight inside the pocket.
• Slightly angle the pocket square to be less precise.

In general, opt for more relaxed styling to contrast with the neat drape of the scarf.

Tying Scarves for Men

Scarves may seem like an accessory reserved for women, but if styled properly they can greatly enhance any man's wardrobe. The key is choosing more masculine styles and colors, and tying them to complement your outfit and body type.

Choosing a Men's Scarf

• Stick to traditional menswear color palettes like navy, gray, camel, red, forest green.
• Select subdued patterns like stripes, plaid or simple geometric shapes.
• Choose luxurious fabrics like cashmere, merino wool or silk.
• Look for scarves in a standard mid-length andavoid oversized styles.

The most versatile scarf for men isa solid, mid-gray with fringed ends in soft cashmere or merino wool. This works with everything from business attire to casual weekendwear.

Key Ways to Tie a Men's Scarf

The Drape

This is the easiest way to wear a scarf. Simply drape it around your neck, letting the ends hang straight down in the front.

• Drape your scarf loosely so it's not too snug on the neck.
• Make sure the ends are even on both sides.
• This works well with wool coats to keep you extra warm.

The Once-Around

Wrap your scarf horizontally around your neck once, crossing the ends in front. Adjust to your desired snugness.

• Leave some slack for a more casual vibe.
• Wrap it gently without too many wrinkles or bunching.
• The ends can be left loose, tied, or tucked into your coat.

The Twice-Around

For added warmth and security, wrap your scarf twice around your neck horizontally.

• Cross the ends loosely in front leaving some drape.
• Make the loops a bit looser if wrapped twice.
• Tuck the ends into your jacket or let them hang as desired.

The Ascot Knot

This gives you a polished look by knotting your scarf inside the shirt collar under your jacket.

• Drape the scarf around your shirt collar and crossover the ends.
• Thread one end through the loop and tighten to your liking.
• Make sure the knot sits neatly under your chin before tightening fully.

Scarf Tying Tips

• Tie your scarf so it complements your face shape. Wider knots and drapes work well for round or square faces. Let the scarf ends hang loosely and untied with oval and long face shapes.
• Match the snugness of the scarf to your neck thickness. Leaving too much slack looks sloppy.
• Make sure the scarf ends are even in the front or back depending on the tying style.
• Take care not to bunch up the fabric. Neatly arrange the scarf so it lies smoothly.

With the right styling, a scarf can be the perfect finishing touch to any man's outfit. Experiment with different textures, patterns and tying methods to find your signature look.

How to Fold a Pocket Square

A pocket square can transform a man's look from plain to polished. But simply stuffing a silk square into your breast pocket doesn't cut it. Learning how to properly fold a pocket square makes all the difference.

Choosing a Pocket Square

Stick to these guidelines when selecting a pocket square:

• Opt for silk, cotton, or linen. Avoid thick fabrics like wool.
• Choose a pattern and color that complements your outfit.
• Standard size is about 16-18 inches on each side. Scale up for bigger pockets.
• Have a few squares on hand so you can coordinate with different looks.

Mastering the Basic Folds

The Straight Triangle Fold

• Fold your square diagonally to form a triangle.
• Fold this triangle in half again to make a smaller triangle.
• Insert neatly into your jacket pocket, allowing a bit to puff out.

The Square Fold

• Fold your square in half horizontally, then vertically, creating a small square.
• Fold this square on both diagonals to make a smaller square.
• Insert into your pocket, keeping the points facing up and out.

The Puff Fold

• Stack your pocket square and roll it up loosely.
• Fluff the roll to create a soft, rounded puff shape.
• Place in pocket with sides and bottom of the puff showing.

Styling Your Folded Pocket Square

• The Points - Let the points of the pocket square rise out 1-2 inches for a refined yet relaxed look.
• The Cascade - Flair your pocket square so it spills out dramatically.
• The Straight - Keep your pocket square neat and perfectly arranged inside the pocket.
• The Angle - Tilt your pocket square slightly for a casual vibe.

Tips for the Perfect Pocket Square

• Make sure your pocket square complements your tie or scarf.
• Mind the proportions - a tiny square will get lost, while an oversized one looks sloppy.
• Stick to solids or subtle patterns/textures.
• Avoid shiny satin fabrics which look tacky.
• Don't overstuff your pocket or folds will appear messy.

With practice, you'll be folding and styling pocket squares with flair in no time!

FAQs

What are the best colors to pair for scarves and pocket squares?

Stick to complementary colors like shades of blue, jewel tones, neutrals like black and gray, or contrasting pairs like purple and yellow.

Can you wear a patterned scarf with a patterned pocket square?

Yes, but make sure the patterns complement each other. Keep one piece simple, match color schemes, and mind the scale of the patterns.

What fabrics work best for pocket squares?

Stick with sleek fabrics like silk, cotton, linen or seersucker. Avoid thick fabrics like wool or shiny satin.

What are the best scarf tying methods for men?

The drape, once-around, and twice-around are easy go-to ways to stylishly tie a scarf. For formalwear, try the Ascot knot.

How much pocket square should peak out of the pocket?

Let 1-2 inches of the points show for a refined look. Flairing more creates a bolder cascade effect.