The exact origins of the pocket square are unknown, but many believe that wearing a pocket square is as prehistoric as Ancient Egypt and Greece. Initially, they were white fabric squares used for personal hygiene or to deter smells. In the 19th century, pocket squares became a fashion statement and status symbol.

Wealthy men mostly wore red or other brightly coloured pocket squares to distinguish themselves in a crowd. They even began to use perfume on the pocket squares. Finally, in the 21st century, pocket squares established themselves as gentlemen's fashion accessories, marking the history of pocket squares as a symbol of elegance and refinement.

The pocket square is a timeless suit accessory. There are many styles of pocket squares. It is made in different shapes, such as the flat fold, one-point fold, two-point fold, three-stair fold, four-point fold, soft-puff fold, and President fold. To make a pocket square, the tailor begins cutting a 10x10-inch square and overlocking the edges. 

He then follows a process where he marks, folds, stitches, and irons the square to hold the desired shape. It is then ready as a simple or elaborate pocket square to match the suit pocket and the occasion.

Men still like sporting a pocket square, frequently known as a handkerchief or pocket handkerchief. In ancient times, a pocket square was a handkerchief used to wipe one’s face, or wrap small objects. Until the 19th century, the pocket square was a small, folded piece of fabric often made of plain white linen or cotton which continued to serve the same purpose. Sometimes, it was a more elaborate puff or peak fold. However, in the last century, the pocket square evolved into a fashion accessory. The meaning of pocket square has shifted from a practical item to a key symbol of elegance and style in modern fashion.

It became a decorative item in various styles, colours, and fabrics. Kept in the coat pocket, it became a sign of a well-dressed man. In the 1920s and 1930s, the pocket square was an essential accessory in every gentleman’s wardrobe, often paired with a fedora hat. In the 1950s and 1960s, the pocket square was subdued and only had a straight fold. Today, the pocket square is a visible style element on a suit, jacket, or sports coat. It is used for aesthetic purposes mainly to accentuate the tie, shirt, or suit, adding a touch of sophistication to any dressing style.