Mixing Patterns
Using the same colors but different patterns for ties and pocket squares.
Should pocket squares match ties?
That depends, are you a rule maker or a rule follower?
Wondering if it's a fashion faux pas to match your pocket square to your tie? You’re certainly not alone! This question has puzzled many of our suit jacket wearing customers over the years and we're finally setting the record straight.
The truth is, there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. In this article we'll explore all the nuances of a pocket square and its purpose, what tradition says, see what our customers doing, and help guide you to make the best choice for your own ensemble.
What can a pocket square do?
A pocket square can transform your outfit in several ways:
- Complement your tie or suit or your bridal party without matching them exactly.
- Contrast with the other pieces in your outfit or your crew to draw attention.
- Add depth and texture to a look.
- Coordinate to create a cohesive look.
- Showcase your playful side and serve as a conversation starter.
- Elevate your outfit with sophistication and class.
What does "traditional advice" say?
Here's the advice that's generally widely accepted, if you're interested in following the "rules":
- Avoid Exact Matches: It’s generally advised not to match your pocket square exactly to your tie’s pattern.
- Color Coordination: Pull a color from your tie's pattern, whether it’s the background or an accent color.
- White Pocket Square: When in doubt, a white pocket square is always a safe and elegant choice.
Knotty Tie Pro Tip: Match the thread color of the white pocket square to a color in your tie with our upcycled customizable thread pocket square!
Creative Expression Plays a Major Role
Traditional fashion "rules" can serve as helpful guidelines, but we're here to say that they shouldn’t stifle your creativity or hold you back from expressing yourself. Fashion is an art form after all so whether you're a rule-breaker or a traditionalist, the goal should always be to create looks that make you feel confident.
First, Consider the Basics
Choosing whether to match your pocket square to your tie or not depends significantly on the look you want to achieve. Start by considering the following:
Do you want to complement or contrast?
Whether your pocket square complements the coloring of your tie or contrasts your tie colors, you may still be asking yourself if the color of your pocket square should be lighter or darker than your tie. We suggest that when making this decision you remember to consider the color of your suit jacket and select a coloring that will pop against the suiting as its backdrop.
Complementing involves pulling a color or an element from your tie's pattern—either the main color or a prominent accent or a component of the pattern. This creates a harmonious and polished appearance.
Contrasting allows your pocket square to stand out on its own, adding an element of surprise and depth to your outfit.
Do you want solid colors or patterns?
Solid Colors are less busy and could be more versatile. It's also easier than ever to custom color a solid tie and pocket square combo with our customizer tool. If you're looking to match to other garments, swatches, or design details, find out how simple we make the color matching process with our ColorMatch Chart.
Patterns add visual interest, make your outfit more eye-catching and allow for more creative expression and personal touches. Browse hundreds of customizable necktie and pocket square patterns to find designs that excite you from classic wardrobe staples like stripes and dots to more unconventional themes and interests like art deco and sports. Recolor your favorite patterns to your liking in just a few clicks with our customizer tool.
The best of both worlds would be to opt for one piece in a solid color and the other piece in a pattern to add a pop of personality while grounding the look with a simple solid color.
What's most popular with Knotty Tie customers?
Here are some of the design choices that we commonly see our customers making when customizing their pocket square and tie combos:
Inverse Pattern
Pocket square is the same pattern but the colors are inverted.
Matching Patterns
That's right, same pattern with same colors for both tie and pocket square.
The Stand Out Groom
The groom often opts for a different color square than the groomsmen.
Matching Solids
You’ve got it, the same solid color for both tie and pocket square.
Solid and Patterned Combos
Mixing patterned ties with solid pocket squares, and vice versa.
Find Your Style
So, should the pocket square match your tie? It ultimately boils down to personal preference and the look you want to achieve. While traditional advice offers a solid foundation, don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you.
Think you're now ready to elevate your look with a pocket square and tie combo? Explore our collections of customizable solid and patterned pocket squares and ties. Remember, fashion is an extension of your personality and being confident and enjoying what you're wearing is the key to a successful outfit!
