The London Lounge

can anyone recommend some basic pocket squares which will readily go with the basic grey and blue work suit and tie combination?

i'd suggest plain white linen - just picure the the Sean Connery James Bond

Plain white linen, blue silk with white dots, some sort of blue paisley - I don't think you can go too wrong with whites or blues.

As stated by both Luk-cha and Pvpatty solid white linen would be great.

white linen and/or cotton squares with a color border work well also.

Also a solid white cotton would be just fine as well.

You might also want to invest in some blue, grey, and other color tattershalls as well.

The beauty of basic grey and blue suits is that you can do many things with them to make them look elegant, simple, and timeless.

Best Regards,

Cufflink79

The only "basic" is white linen, I think. Everything else is "advanced" and pocket squares and combinations need to be judged one by one.
However, I think you are not necessarily restricted to the blue - grey - white scheme with your pocket square, even with a business suit. Depending on tie, shirt, socks, you may use the pocket square to discreetly bring some interest to an otherwise sober frame. As long as it is not grasshopper green or bright orange, I think a quietly coloured pocket square that picks a colour from your shirt or tie, or complements them well is a tasteful addition to your business look. There is an infinte number of designs and colours and that's the beauty of pocket squares, so it's hard to prescribe a certain type. The choice reflects your tastes.
You need to browse through a few tens of squares in a good shop and pick what you like. You will find some squares are quite versatile and work well in a number of combinations, while others are more difficult to match and are more restricted in use. Some will look beautiful in the shop but will be terrible to match with anything. Others may seem boring or inexpressive on the shelf, but they will be surprinsingly appropriate when worn in the right context .

Don't forget Bonfanti's pocket squares. I like the 50/50 mix of linen and cotton. It makes them soft and springy at the same time: http://thelondonlounge.net/gl/forum/vie ... t=bonfanti

Thanks Gruto. Can others recommend brands/sources?

Gruto wrote:Don't forget Bonfanti's pocket squares. I like the 50/50 mix of linen and cotton. It makes them soft and springy at the same time: http://thelondonlounge.net/gl/forum/vie ... t=bonfanti

I see the original thread is from 2006. Are these still available?

I just bought some nice cotton ones from Budd in London and from Ermenigildo Zegna in Miami.

sartorius wrote:Thanks Gruto. Can others recommend brands/sources?

Marks and Spencer, nice quality cotton, all colours, 5 boxed for £6!

I totally agree with Mr. Luk-Cha, and, if I may add, 17" by 17" square.

If you have some favourite patterned dress shirts which may have become worn over time – but not worn out! - cut the back into a 20” by 20” square. Then send it off to Sam Hober or any tailor who will trim and roll the edges for you. You will enjoy the 2nd life given to this part of your wardrobe.

JAS

JAS wrote:If you have some favourite patterned dress shirts which may have become worn over time – but not worn out! - cut the back into a 20” by 20” square. Then send it off to Sam Hober or any tailor who will trim and roll the edges for you. You will enjoy the 2nd life given to this part of your wardrobe.

JAS

Excellent suggestion!

Off hand, I cannot recall who recommended doing the same with old ties.

Cordovan

Making Reference to JAS suggestion of reviving the back of a fav shirt as a pocket square, may I add that works well with the lady's slightly worn silk blouses as well !

Of late, I am becoming fond of taking advantage of a plain background - say grey suit, white shirt, navy tie, to wear something more complex in the pocket like a bright paisley. Because everything else is so simple, there's no risk of clashing...