As much as we would like to, it’s not practical to have a brand new suit for each occasion we have to attend.
But we can tweak parts of our outfit and make it seem like a whole new ensemble.
Luckily enough, that’s what accessories are for!
They bring a touch of individuality and bring a second life to a well-tailored suit and a pair of trousers.
Have you tried throwing in a well-picked bow tie? Classic!
READ: 4 Bow Tie Styles You Need To Know
How about adding a perfectly folded handkerchief peeking out of your breast pocket? Divine!
READ: 11 Ways to Fold a Handkerchief
Each are considered an essential accessory in every gentleman’s wardrobe; but, combined?
Well, we say, that’s a superb way to step up your dressing game, gent!
If you’re still new with styling your own outfits and accessorising, you have come to the right place and in just the right time.
Here, we will discuss and teach you why here at DQT, we consider bow ties and pocket squares as sartorial best friends.
How to Match Your Bow Tie and Pocket Square
Some men resort with matching bow tie and handkerchief sets that are usually made of the same fabric, or already has the same colour or pattern, for them to save time and effort in styling.
It’s definitely a quick fix and a safe, fashionable choice. It’s decent styling fix if you are running late for an event, but still want to look all done and well-dressed. Which is why DQT offers these matching sets for both gentlemen and boys.
But, if you are a fashion forward gentleman who always want to be on top of your dressing game, we are here to elicit three fundamental things to consider and some styling tips on how to wear and pick the perfect bow tie and handkerchief combination elegantly.
CHOOSING FABRICS
As the basics, invest on accessories made of silk, cotton, and linen fabrics.
And for a splash of fun, you can also add in some knitted handkerchief or a knitted bow tie. It’s also ideal for colder seasons.
When you have banked on these basics, making contrast combinations with your accessories will be such an ease.
But making a fabric contrast in your bow tie and the pocket square should be done with caution.
Aside from your personal preferences, you also have to consider the type of event you are going to attend.
If you are going to casual social occasions, you can definitely play on bold and fun fabrics and textures. Be as creative as you can be! Try to mix in a knitted bow and a wool pocket square.
But when attending black tie events, opt for smoother fabrics that will elegantly reflect light and cast shadow to your outfit that would be fitting for more formal gatherings.
MATCHING COLOURS
While a bow tie and handkerchief with the same colour is absolutely acceptable, bringing in different shades will greatly speak of you as someone who takes pride on your appearance.
It’s all about harmony and your main goal is to make sure your look will turn out coherent.
The key here is always looking back to the ever trustworthy, colour wheel. Play on complementary or analogous colours and you will surely will never go wrong with your bow tie and pocket square mix and match.
READ: Learn about mixing and matching patterns and colours here.
If you are used to getting a lot of attention at parties, or simply wanting to have a statement piece that could be a great conversation starter, opt for bold and striking colours.
While for more reserved and formal business or social gatherings, make sure to lean on more neutral shades or monochromatic ensembles since you have to convey to people that you are someone to be taken seriously and you actually mean business.
PAIRING PATTERNS
In pairing patterns, it comes a little tricky. Here, you also have to consider your suit or jacket.
If you choose to wear a suit or jacket with patterns, the best and easiest way to pair your accessories is to pick a sober patterned bow tie and pocket square. In this manner, you will create a subtle triad of visual depth for your whole ensemble.
READ: Learn the basics of pairing patterns with polka dots.
And if you decide on wearing a bow tie and pocket square with the same pattern, make sure that they have different sizes.
Like for an instance, when you want to wear a pocket square with pin dots pattern, get yourself a bow tie with polka dots pattern that are slightly bigger than what you have with your bow tie.
READ: Polka Dots: A Spot On Pattern
If you do that, you will have an interesting illusion in your look that would be visually pleasing and will be such a great fashion statement if paired with a solid coloured ensemble.
Well, of course that was just a tip. But it all boils down to you feeling great about what you wear. With the proper guidelines, trying to mix and match patterns could be fun!
A Style Duo: Bow tie and Pocket Square
Just like other tricks in the hat, matching your bow tie and pocket square takes a bold heart and a lot of trials and errors.
Keep on experimenting and make sure you invest in pieces of accessories that you know will stand the test of time and truly speaks your personal style.
In that way, playing around and finding the perfect combination of bow tie and pocket square to wear when you dress up will be such a piece of cake when a special event calls for it.
Shop here at DQT for stylish and affordable men’s accessories that will help you always look your dapper best. Have fun!