5 Failsafe Tie and Pocket Square Pairings

Formal accessories are a tricky business. Too many and you’re trying too hard – it begins to detract from the formality of your suit. Too little on the other hand and you’re lacking punch and individuality, blending into a sea of unimaginative suiting. One or two discerning accessories are all it takes to elevate your tailoring, namely a well picked tie and pocket square pairing.

The days of matching affections are out of the window however, if they were ever here in the first place that is. A complementary pairing is far more preferable; it adds a touch of restrained panache, a mark of a gentleman who knows his way around a wardrobe. These 5 combinations should give you some idea as to how to go about finishing your formal looks with suitable aplomb…

EVERYDAY VERSATILITY

Tie: Paul Smith, £85.00, Pocket Square: Reiss, £25.00

Works best with: Everything but black

When: For the office

The caveat: There isn’t one, you can’t fail to pull this off.

A TOUCH OF PAISLEY

Tie: Gieves & Hawkes, £95.00, Pocket Square: Hackett, £30.00

Works best with: Light grey and navy suiting

When: Dinner out

The caveat: Keep the suit matte; the textured tie will clash with anything sheened

REP TIE

Tie: Turnbull & Asser, £105.00, Pocket Square: Cordings, £40

Works best with: Darker shades

When: Anywhere not too formal

The caveat: The bold pattern mixing is strong; keep the rest of the outfit low-key

SUMMER STATEMENT

Tie: Harrods, £59.95, Pocket Square: Richard James, £50.00

Works best with: Lightweight tailoring, particularly navy

When: High summer socials

The caveat: The pattern is more complimentary than the border; keep that concealed

BLACK TIE

Tie: Marks & Spencer, £22.50, Pocket Square: Lanvin, £45.00

Works best with: Black tailoring and tuxedos

When: Ultra-formal events

The caveat: Keep the pocket square fold simple, nothing too flashy for a more discreet, discerning look