http://slyoyster.com

For this wedding I’m attending tomorrow, I’ve decided that since it’s black tie optional, and I don’t have a James Bond type of dinner jacket, that I’m just going to do it up. I’ve got a black suit, with a light gray shirt and a purple tie (slight gray pattern on it). It’s a solid outfit, but I’ve decided that I’m going to find a decent pocket square to add some panache. Just something a little extra to compete with all the black tie outfits.

Pocket squares can add an interest point to a traditional suit or really add some flair to a flat ensemble. If your closet is chalk full of cutting-edge fashion trends, a pocket square can complete the polished look. Not sure how to wear a pocket square? It’s really up to you … you can wear pocket squares with a tie or without a tie, or with a silk scarf.

One rule of them is that you don’t want to mismatch your patterns. So if you have a paisely pocket square, you don’t want a strong pattern on your tie, scarf or shirt. If you have a patterned shirt, a solid color like a green pocket square, sends the right message.

I don’t want to screw this up. Any suggestions on colors, patterns, etc. Also how to wear them? I can say for sure this is something that my father never taught me. No worries Dad, I don’t hold it against you.

In case you’re wondering, we’ve including a nice diagram on various methods for folding pocket squares after the jump.