The POCKET SQUARE is a familiar accessory for gentlemen who love wearing suits. Let's explore its history with FOLKSIGHT.
ORIGINATING FROM HANDKERCHIEFS
Since the 1400s, the use of handkerchiefs became popular across Europe among the upper class, not just as a fashion accessory but also carrying deeper significance.
During this period, pocket squares or handkerchiefs were crafted from luxurious fabrics, primarily silk, and adorned with intricate hand embroidery. Such items were not inexpensive; they symbolized wealth and status for their owners. Additionally, they served practical purposes, such as the French aristocracy scenting their handkerchiefs with perfume to mask unpleasant odors when necessary.
Returning to the story of handkerchiefs, those made from high-quality materials, hand-embroidered, and especially adorned with lace, were considered extremely valuable. They could be preserved and passed down from one generation to another. The value of a handkerchief largely depended on the quality and style of lace used to embellish it.
In general, since ancient times, owning a beautiful handkerchief, carrying it regularly, giving it as a gift, etc., has always been a hallmark of elegance and sophistication, whether for men or women.
THE RISE OF THE POCKER SQUARE WITH THE EMERGENCE OF THE TWO-PIECE SUIT
In the 19th century, when the two-piece suit became the dominant fashion trend for gentlemen, men who cared about style and dressing well quickly realized they didn't want their clean handkerchiefs mixing with coins and other items in their pockets. Therefore, they decided to move them up to the left breast pocket of their vests. And from there, the Pocket Square was born!
This style officially flourished in the early 20th century when folding techniques for the Pocket Square became popular. The Pocket Square evolved into a significant fashion accessory for suits. Square handkerchiefs made from silk, cotton, or linen, adorned with patterns or plain, gradually became popular among gentlemen dressing formally across Europe and the United States.
By the late 20th century, the handkerchief gradually lost its status as an essential item to carry with oneself. This shift was notably influenced by the introduction of disposable tissues—small, convenient, single-use products—pioneered by companies like Kleenex. However, the handkerchief's prominence was revived shortly after, thanks to silver screen icons such as James Cagney and Fred Astaire. As a fashion accessory, whether you're a stylish gentleman or an ordinary office worker, wearing a Pocket Square became a symbol of sophistication whenever you donned a suit.
TODAY
In some workplaces, wearing suits is still a requirement for men. However, as work environments become less strict, the necessity of a necktie diminishes, making wearing suits more comfortable. For men who still want to maintain their style and elegance, they choose to wear a Pocket Square.
So what are the benefits of using a Pocket Square? It's a simple experiment that elevates the sophistication of suits. Experts advise against trying to match the colors of your tie and Pocket Square; instead, using the Pocket Square as an accent piece will create a more striking effect. The variety in materials, colors, patterns, and styles available today offers you numerous choices for your Pocket Square.
Folding a Pocket Square is an interesting task that requires dexterity and a bit of patience. There are many folding methods introduced online, each with its own style, allowing you to experiment freely with this accessory.
The presence of a Pocket Square adds a touch of elegance by subtly breaking away from the standard conformity of a fully buttoned-up suit.
.png)
Comments