A handkerchief can definitely make quite the effect with a nice suit, and is one of the most inexpensive ways to look refined and ready for a classy wedding.

There are tons of ways to fold a handkerchief, but we are going to go over the four most common ones you’ll see: a square-ended fold, multi-pointed fold, triangle fold, and puffed method. Depending on the fabric, you may want to tailor the fold accordingly.  (For instance, puffed fold look very nice with silk handkerchiefs, while a square fold works beautifully with linen.)

Remember that a folded pocket-handkerchiefs should not show any embroideries (if any is present), and that white handkerchiefs are a classic and flawless option. However, if you want to bring an extra elegance, you may choose subtle and faded colors that compliment your tie (but are not the exact same colors).  When you are trying to figure out how far down into the pocket, remember this rule: a folded handkerchief should not be more than one inch outside the suit pocket, to not look as if it is falling, or overwhelm the suit.

How-to fold those fabrics to perfection:

Square fold: Classic style.

1. Fold the handkerchief in half.

2.Join the outer sides of the half-folded handkerchief.

3. Press it to hold the fold.

4. Set it in the suit pocket, with the folded sides hidden, and the flat section of the square fold facing the front.

Puffed method: More informal, trendy style.

1. Place your handkerchief diagonally on a flat surface.
2. With your index finger and your thumb, pinch the handkerchief at the center, and lift it up.
3. With the handkerchief hanging from your right hand, run your left hand down the handkerchief, and stop at half the length.
4. Fold the hanging corners upwards. The top of the handkerchief will look like it has been puffed.
5. In this position, place the handkerchief in your pocket. It may have to be adjusted a little so that it looks well puffed, after you have put it in the pocket.

Triangle: Formal occasions, best with single colored handkerchiefs.

1.  Place your handkerchief diagonally on a flat surface.

2. Create a triangle by folding it across the center, so that two opposite corners are placed upon one another.

3.   Take the left corner of the triangle and fold it halfway inward.

4.   Take the right corner and fold it halfway inward, so that it is placed over the left corner.

5.   For a better effect, once you have folded it completely, run the iron over the folds just once. This will hold the entire setting together. Turn it over, and place it in your pocket.

Multi-pointed: Very fancy style.

1. Fold the handkerchief diagonally, to form one triangle on top of another, but leave one of the sides of the ‘bottom triangle’ exposed.
2. Fold the left corner inwards, leaving the left corner tip slightly higher than the two visible edges of the previously folded triangles;
3. Fold the right corner inwards, matching the right corner’s tip with the height of the previously folded left corner.
4. Set it in your suit pocket, making sure only one inch of the corners is outside of the pocket.

Both the multi-pointed and the triangle effect are certainly the most elegant and are for use with handkerchiefs of linen or cotton with hand-rolled edges. Silk handkerchiefs look better with the puffed method.  Whatever method you choose, make certain everyone knows how to do the fold or have your coordinator assist.

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For more information on Muse – A Wedding & Event Planning company based out of Portland, Oregon, visit www.eventmuse.biz.   Thanks for stopping by!

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