The Handbook - How To Guides
 
 
 
31 Days: Style Tips and Tricks
 
Volume 1
 

All the tips and tricks needed to shape up for 2009. Each day brings new, expert advice on how to look your best and live life to the fullest, while having a little fun doing it.

Clothes
Day
9

Fold a Pocket Square

Traditionalists argue that menswear is a game of inches—that the smallest details can make or break a man's look. While we may not be tried and true trads, we definitely subscribe to the less-is-more theory. Like when it comes to pocket squares. Yes, you should sport one. No, you don't need fancy origami pleats.

 
 

TV Fold

For guys that like things crisp and simple, or fans of Mad Men.

 
1

Fold a pressed handkerchief into quarters.

2

Fold the resulting square into thirds.

3

Bring the bottom edge three-quarters of the way up.

4

Tuck in, unfolded side out and an inch of fabric visible.

 
 

Puffed Fold

For those who consider themselves flashy by old school standards, or aspire to be Sartorialist subjects.

 
1

Gather the fabric in the center of the pocket square.

2

Flip upside down and fold in half lengthwise.

3

Stuff into pocket and adjust for desired peaks.

(Illustrations: Brooks Brothers)

 
 

FYI

Tie designer Alexander Olch brings his Ivy-styled smarts to the pocket square in these linen rounds, which fall somewhere between the two styles. More streamlined than the puff; less rigid than the TV.

$45, at Alexander Olch

 
 
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A Month of Tips