Here’s the thing about ties and pocket squares — they’re tiny details, but they carry a lot of weight.
The wrong pairing? You look like you just bought the “groomsman package” from a discount store.
The right pairing? People quietly think, “Damn, he’s got style.”
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I learned this the hard way.
Years ago, I wore a navy tie with a matching navy pocket square to a wedding. I thought I was killing it… until I saw the photos. It looked like my chest was wearing a navy blanket. Since then, I’ve figured out a few tricks to keep things sharp, balanced, and never overdone.
1. The Tie Should Compliment, Not Compete
Your tie isn’t there to scream for attention — it’s there to make your suit look better.
If you’re wearing a black suit, try a deep red or silver tie.
Navy suit? Burgundy, mustard, or patterned blue works beautifully.
Gray suit? A forest green or purple tie pops without feeling loud.
The key: the tie should belong in the outfit, but not be so matchy that it feels like a school uniform.
2. Fabric Is a Game-Changer
The same color in different fabrics tells a completely different story.
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Silk — Your safest bet for weddings, galas, and black-tie events. Smooth, rich, and polished.
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Wool or Tweed — Perfect for winter weddings or rustic settings. Adds warmth and depth.
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Velvet — Bold, luxe, and a little daring — ideal for making an entrance.
3. The Pocket Square Rule Everyone Gets Wrong
Your pocket square should never look like it came from the same box as your tie.
If your tie is patterned, go for a solid or textured pocket square.
If your tie is plain, let your pocket square have a bit of fun with patterns or a pop of color.
A crisp white square? Always timeless. But a silk square with subtle prints? That’s personality without shouting.
4. Mixing Patterns Without Causing Chaos
Patterns can work together — but one has to take the lead.
If your tie has bold stripes, your pocket square can have small dots or a soft floral.
If your suit already has a pattern (like plaid), keep both tie and square simple.
And please, stick to three colors max in your whole outfit. Anything more, and you start looking like a walking deck of Uno cards.
5. The Knot Is More Important Than You Think
A Windsor knot says “I mean business” — wide, clean, and symmetrical.
The Half-Windsor? Still formal, but with less bulk.
The Four-in-Hand? A little uneven, a little casual — perfect for modern suits.
Bow ties? Only for tuxedos or when you want people to know you chose to stand out.
6. Skipping the Tie? Do It With Intention
No tie can work — but only if the dress code allows it. Beach weddings, summer parties, or relaxed business dinners are fine.
When you skip the tie, your pocket square becomes the star. Fold it neatly, give it some character, and own the look.
7. Pocket Square Folds That Actually Matter
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Presidential Fold — Clean, flat, professional.
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Puff Fold — Effortless and stylish.
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Three-Point Fold — Sharp, structured, and eye-catching.
For casual events, I’ve even done a “messy fold” — where I just stuff it in and let it do its thing. Honestly? Sometimes that looks better than a perfect fold.
💡 Bottom line:
Your tie and pocket square aren’t just accessories — they’re the handshake before you speak. The first thing people notice when you walk into a room. Get them right, and you’ll look effortlessly put together without anyone realizing how much thought went into it.
.jpg "How to Pick the Perfect Tie & Pocket Square for a Formal Event")
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