Posted on 27th Nov 2010 @ 3:10 PM

Throughout the 1900’s the handkerchief was a symbol of male social status and no true gentlemen would be seen without one tucked into the top pocket of his suit.
The main use of the handkerchief during those days was for the wiping of one’s hands instead of essentially blowing the nose as this was actually thought to be unhygienic if used more than once. Common usage was for removing stray bits of snuff after snorting from the hand.
Today a man’s handkerchief is often worn purely in a decorative way with colours that match ties and cravats and blend in with the wedding colours.
The Victorian groom and groomsmen went for the more flamboyant look on wedding days by hangingsilk handkerchiefs out of their back pockets and many of these handkerchiefs were just as decorative as the ladies ones.
Men’s handkerchiefs can be plain, patterned or monogrammed. Most are made from cotton, an easy care fabric and used on a daily basis. The handkerchief used to accessories is made from linen or silk and they can be folded and worn in different styles. Other materials are polyester and satin.
Silk is not ideal for folding or keeping shape but is more often than not placed inside the pocket for that individual look and style. Practice whichever one suits your taste and you may be surprised just how different you can have your handkerchief look than others.
You can usually find men’s handkerchiefs for sale anywhere men’s accessories such as socks and silk tiesare sold. Specialty shops also carry them with initial monograms on them.
Whichever style your groom or wedding party decide to use the material of the handkerchief should only show above the pocket an inch to an inch and a half and if there is a monogram on the handkerchief etiquette dictates that it should never be shown while on display in the pocket.