Editorial

What To Keep In Mind When You Shop For Pocket Squares Online

We all want to look our best. Indeed, in this modern world of competitive lifestyles, fast-paced career moves and heightened levels of exposure, it has never been more important for all of us to put in that little bit of extra effort, and go the extra mile with our dress sense.

Over the past decade or so, we have seen an impressive resurgence in the popularity of pocket handkerchiefs. It is not difficult to see why; a well-chosen pocket square can be a powerful part of anybody’s outfit, displaying a touch of panache, a little flourish of personality, and providing the perfect finishing touch to a suit or blazer. However, this sudden surge in popularity after some time in the wilderness has resulted in there being many, many types of pocket squares available to buy online and in stores, and it is fair to say that some are considerably better than others. As is the case with any luxury items, the internet is packed full of pocket squares which are poor quality imitations of the real deal, cheap alternatives for those who do not know any better, and rip-off versions of branded items. Not only this, but such a wealth of different options can make it difficult to decide which handkerchief is right for you.

Despite all these factors, it seems perfectly clear that nobody should rush into buying a pocket square online. These are luxury, decorative items, after all – it is well worth taking a little bit of time considering how to get the most for your money. Quality is key, as there is no point in rushing into splashing out on a luxury item such as a pocket square, only to make the wrong choice with the wrong supplier, and finding out that it may end up looking anything but luxurious in a short amount of time.

Keeping all of this in mind, it is important to be aware of what to look for when it comes to buying a pocket square online – with so much on the market, how do you discern which accessory is best? We have compiled a quick list of points to think of when you shop for handkerchiefs online, how to spot great quality accessories, and how to keep your unique sense of style intact.

The Hem is the Key

As anybody who knows anything about pocket squares will tell you, the first thing you should look into when trying to discern the quality of a pocket square is the hem. High quality pocket squares should – without fail – be made with a carefully, beautifully hand-rolled hem. This is mainly due to the fact that hand-rolled hems allow for a finer shape and drape to the handkerchief, and help them look considerably better and more luxuriant when folded (which, after all, is the whole point of a pocket square). Hand-rolled hems are far superior to machine-sewn hems, which typify cheaper, lower quality pocket squares, due to the fact that machined hems are ‘tighter’ and more rigid, not allowing for that delightful softness and flow that is deserving of a luxury silk accessory.

Thinking of Fabrics

Talking of silk, what would be the point of sourcing a high quality silk pocket square, if the item was not made of high quality silk? It is no secret that several lower standard companies blend their silk with large quantities of artificial fabrics, or use silk from less-than-reputable manufacturers. The truth is that try as you might, you cannot fool the discerning consumer into not recognizing poor quality when they come across it – there simply is not any replacement for superb silk, made with love and reverence by those using techniques passed down through the generations. Robertto’s pocket squares take this concept very seriously indeed: only the highest quality Italian silk (produced in Como, the home of European luxury fabrics) is used in the making of our luxury pocket squares.

Made in…?

Following this, there must be some mention of the origin of the pocket square. When you are buying pocket squares online, do take a moment to look at where in the world the item has been produced. If it comes from some unknown suburb of a third world country, the chance that it has been made by skilled craftsmen and artisans is pretty slim. Pocket square production and silkwork in general is an art and a skill which is not borne of sweatshops and factories, it is something to be undertaken by master craftspeople and those with a true passion for what they do. It is for this very reason that ‘Made in Italy’ and ‘Made in England’ are at the very heart of the Robertto’s brand.

Unique Designs for Unique Individuals

Of course, no article on how to choose a high quality pocket square could end without some mention of designs and colors. A pocket square’s main function is to bring color, brightness and personality to an outfit, and as such, the design of the item is all-important. The vast majority of companies which produce pocket squares tend to play it safe, using designs based on blocks of muted colors, or unoriginal patterns which can be found in every store. If you want your handkerchief to reflect your personality, do you want to be associated with dull, repetitive patterns – the kind of thing worn by ten thousand other people? Of course not – you want a wearable work of art, something which has been produced with real fire, passion, originality and in the spirit of the avant-garde.

Robertto’s takes great pride in its vast range of designs, which cover everything from contemporary art to ancient oriental designs, minimalism to in-your-face vibrancy. While other designers would fumble and fall in producing such unique items, Robertto’s has gone to great lengths to work with expert colorists who ensure that the colors, tones and shades chosen for their pocket squares work in harmony and in contrast with each other, providing a beautifully well-selected palette for the wearer to work with and match with. In this, Robertto’s is comfortable and confident that their pocket squares stand head and shoulders above their competitors, and bring a genuine flash of excitement, personality and unique fashion sense to their growing and dedicated customer base.