Tip for pocket squares

[Karl R]

In the past month I've splurged and purchased a couple pocket squares. In doing so, I've found a way to pick up high quality pocket squares at an extremely reasonable price (without huge time investment).

I did some research, and most professionals seem to recommend pocket squares in the 40cm-45cm size, or 15"-17" size. (If you're good with math, you'll notice the metric measurements are a little larger.) Most of the available pocket squares are much, much smaller. In order to find inexpensive, full-sized, quality pocket squares quickly and cheaply, I found one simple trick. I hit eBay, searched for pocket squares, set a filter for "used" pocket squares (which primarily filters out the under-sized junk), and then set a filter for silk pocket squares. I purchased a beautiful, red, Italian silk, 17" pocket square for a little less than $8. Subsequently, I purchased a beautiful, patterned blue, Italian silk, 18.5" pocket square for $10. (Due to the seller's limited photography ability, the real pocket square looks far better than the photographs that the seller provided.)

I don't really have a need for an infinite variety of pocket squares. I just don't use them that frequently. But I figure almost all of us could use one or three good pocket squares for our jacket pockets.

Happy hunting.

[revdpatience]

Great tips, Karl!

I ended up with a nice collection of pocket squares several years ago, following an anterior spinal fusion surgery in my neck (C5-C6-C7 for the cognoscenti).

Because I was in a neck brace 24/7 for eight weeks (and couldn't wear a necktie), but was still traveling for business and making formal presentations, I accessorized with pocket squares instead.

At church it was all right, too -- I just had a much higher white plastic collar than usual to go with my black clerical shirt.

[Father Bill]

At church it was all right, too -- I just had a much higher white plastic collar than usual to go with my black clerical shirt.

Kind of like a "Clericool III" - breathing optional.

[revdpatience]

My normal collar is a Clericool III, as it happens. Pro tip: buy collars 1/2 size larger than your shirt.

The neck brace was more like a Clericool VIII 😀

That’s enough insider baseball for one thread, I suppose. Happy Sunday!

Kind of like a "Clericool III" - breathing optional.

[Mr stonk]

I have many pocket squares and usually wear without a tie but when I do I always follow the rule that the square should never be the exact same material and design as the tie.
However I have just found a swatch of sample material from when I purchased my kilt that I was thinking of making a pocket square from.

The look then would be kilt, tie and pocket square all the same material and tartan....🤔

[Jock Scot]

I have many pocket squares and usually wear without a tie but when I do I always follow the rule that the square should never be the exact same material and design as the tie.
However I have just found a swatch of sample material from when I purchased my kilt that I was thinking of making a pocket square from.

The look then would be kilt, tie and pocket square all the same material and tartan....��

Well you could, its your choice, but----

Generally speaking many in the UK and particularly traditional kilt wearers in the Highlands almost deliberately try to avoid matching stuff and also taking care not to mix tartans of different Clans while we are at it. It is something that baffles many from the other side of the pond. Some from over there have tried the non matching tactic(kicking and screaming, sometimes!) and have been surprised how effective it looks.

Just saying.

[plaid preacher]

Kind of like a "Clericool III" - breathing optional.

Not a fan of Clericool collars - I used to wear Pontiff IIIs which were the high ones. Now I have ones that I have to starch myself. More work, but far more comfortable.