Over the years I've noticed a common practice in my hometown of Richmond, VA ( aside from foregoing putting a dimple in neckties and eating that god awful Pimento Cheese). People don't wear pocket squares in their suits!!!
I feel naked without one. Naked and cold. Like the feeling you get when you forget your phone. Or forget to take your Adderall. This day is gonna suck. For me, a pocket square is a very minimal, yet essential detail. GQ would agree. Traditionally worn in 100% silk with patterns or in 100% Linen; They have served their owners well in tying together an ensemble with a pop of color. The rules are not to give too much thought and certainly, MOST DEFINITELY, DO NOT have the pocket square made out of the same fabric/design/color as the tie. I'm looking at you Macy's. Pocket squares should "compliment" your tie. What does that mean? It could be a complimentary color in various shades/tints ( blue & orange, Purple & yellow, Red & Green) or something that picks up a particular color in the tie.
As far as designs go, anything is fair game. Shapes, Animals, Paintings from the Italian Renaissance, cool ass sculptures ( https://www.xofpentacles.com/products/king-neptune ), etc.
Edges of the fabric are rolled by hand. It takes a VERY long time and quite a bit of skill to pull off. The result is something luxurious, yet imperfect. It separates the hand crafted, from the less expensive machine hemmed edges ( typically pressed flat, with visible uniform stitches).
Pocket Squares can make great conversation pieces, or add a bit of your personality to your outfit. They are the reason you have that breast pocket on your jacket. Not to be confused with Handkerchiefs to wipe the tears from your damsel.
My collection of squares were designed to commemorate a few favorite destinations throughout the State of Virginia.
I decided on the fabric composition ( wool / silk) because I wanted something lightweight that had texture, but not quite as stiff as linen or hefty as 100% wool.
The design process is always fun. All of my designs start out with (very rough) hand drawn sketches or concepts, which allow me to put my thoughts onto paper.
After deciding on a concept, I redraw them into vector format as a CAD. Once the CAD is created, I then play around with color palettes before finalizing everything.
Although an afterthought to some, you should reconsider if you forego them. Even if you shy away from color, Crisp White Linen is always neutral and a great place to start. When you decide to get dressed, you call the shots. Don't forget to call Left Corner Pocket.
Cheers!
Marcel