Mixing Patterns
Using the same colors but different patterns for ties and pocket squares.
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.
A pocket square can transform your outfit in several ways:
Here's the advice that's generally widely accepted, if you're interested in following the "rules":
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!
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.
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:
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.
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.
Here are some of the design choices that we commonly see our customers making when customizing their pocket square and tie combos:
Using the same colors but different patterns for ties and pocket squares.
Pocket square is the same pattern but the colors are inverted.
That's right, same pattern with same colors for both tie and pocket square.
The groom often opts for a different color square than the groomsmen.
You’ve got it, the same solid color for both tie and pocket square.
Mixing patterned ties with solid pocket squares, and vice versa.
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!
Manufacturing in the USA allows quick customization with orders shipping in as fast as 7 days from order. Learn about our standard and expedite turnaround times and what you can expect based upon order size and shipping location.
We have no minimums so whether you want a full production sample to review prior to placing a large order, need only one product for now or want to order several different designs, go for it! Learn more about products and pricing at our FAQ.
You can easily start a custom design in just a few minutes and we'll work quickly to create a design in a business day or less, so long as we have the color and design assets needed. Request swatches to verify designs or ask for quick revisions to meet your design objectives.
Hundreds of patterns have completely customizable colors so you can match to a dress, suit, palette or just make a rad one-of-a-kind design you won't see anywhere else. Remember that colors on screen are different than print and if you need exact colors, please verify with the ColorMatch Chart.
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