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The devil is in details when it comes to menswear. Never has this been more prominent than with a tie and pocket square. At first glance, it is an effortless way to elevate a tailored outfit. But, it can be fraught with pitfalls, so it is best we guide you through how to match these two accessories to perfection.

When we create synergy between our pocket square and tie, men must remember a fundamental style rule. Despite some brands' best intentions to palm off matching ties and pocket square sets into the hands of unsuspecting men. It is a sartorial no-no to execute this with a suit. Our pocket square needs to complement, not match, our tie.

Challenging as it might seem, we can complement these two menswear pieces by harmonising or contrasting them. The latter, for most men, will be at odds with their current manner of dressing. Though, it isn't as scary as it might first sound.

How To Match Accessories

As we step back to asses our outfits, the impression we want to give is of looking carefully put together without being too studied. Layering on a pocket square must work with our suit and not become a distraction.

Understanding how colours work together is crucial to feeling confident when approaching colour matching. Once you nail this, men can apply the same rules to any key partnership in their daily attire - shoes, belts, ties and even shirts. They all need to look nice paired with other pieces. To do this we need to focus on the colour wheel.

To start with, there are similar colours. These are hues that are close to each other on the wheel. Grey and black, for example, or light and dark blue. Subconsciously, this is probably being applied to every outfit you put together. It is the easiest to master.

Next are complementary colours. Colours that sit opposite each other on the wheel. Here, one colour should become the base colour, while the second pick is an accent. Include the tri-facto of the suit colour in this as a great foundation to ground the colours you have chosen for the pocket square and tie.

Finally, contrasting colours. Different hues, that, on paper, shouldn't work alongside each other, but somehow do. A lot of this can be down to perception. Though, some familiar choices include red and green or blue and orange. To soften the blow, focus on how shades can make the contrast more palpable.

Image from Proven Winners

Complimenting Pocket Squares

A shortcut to unified accessories is to pick a pared-back neutral palette. Both in colour shades and understated design. Whereas identical accessories take this too far and show a lack of ingenuity. Complimentary colours are a great way to show you understand how an outfit has to be put together, and you have made considered choices.

First, get the base colour right. Pick the same or similar (a shade lighter or darker) to a colour element in your tie. For example, this could be a navy blue border aligning with a navy stripe in the body of the tie. Once this is in place, then men can play with simple patterns like polka dot, paisley or checks if they so wish.

If in doubt, stick to colours you feel comfortable with, such as grey, blue, brown or white/cream. Adding bold, elaborate patterns is where we move into contrasting, so play safe with plain pocket squares as a beginner.

complimenting tie and pocket square

Neutral Pocket Squares

J Crew
Suit Supply
Eton
Huntsman

Contrasting Pocket Squares

The alternative to matching is to go down the other end of the scale and contrast these two accessories.

To nail contrasting, men need to think "bolder the better". Both in terms of design but also fold. With both of the examples below, you can see that there is still a cohesive colour palette. It has just been elevated with bold patterns.

This flamboyant execution will draw the eye, and men should be mindful of this when preparing for a particular dress code.

contrasting tie and pocket square

Bold Pocket Squares

Rubinacci
Rampley & Co
Turnbull & Asser
Furious Goose

Pocket Square Fabrics

We can also add visual appeal by selecting different materials for our accessories. Men will know how winter fabrics like wool add texture and interest. The same can be said of ties and pocket squares in various fabrics.

Silk - a perfect choice with pretty much everything. Just be mindful that it doesn't have a 'wet" finish, as this will appear too formal.

Wool - a standout pick in colder-weather

Linen - very versatile and a great option in the summer

Cotton - best kept for partnering with a summer suit

Be mindful that men should match their fabrics in nearly all cases. The only exception might be a plain white cotton or linen pocket square. Due to their unobtrusive nature, they allow themselves to be more readily mixed with different fabrics.

Final Word

Hopefully, this guide has helped you to master the somewhat difficult task of matching your tie and pocket square. The key takeaway is to start small with a neutral, plain pocket square then build your confidence from there.

Other helpful reads when it comes to men's outfit building include:

Best Shirt and Tie Combinations

How To Match a Grey Waistcoat with Navy Suit

On the face of it, the suede jacket does not seem the most practical of outerwear choices. Especially when you live on an island with as much rain as Britain does, but don't let that deter you. The suede jacket is an effortlessly stylish pick for men looking to elevate their top layer. 

A great transitional piece. Suede has the laidback nature of a leather jacket encased in a soft material that adds visual texture to a gent's outfit. Its matte finish makes it an ideal pick against a simple base layer, and this ease of styling makes it so versatile. 

All this understated menswear piece needs is a bit of care to keep it looking its best. Read on to find out how to tend this unique fabric and who has the best options on the market. 

How to Care for a Suede Jacket

If we want to buy a jacket crafted from quality suede, we must be prepared to pay the price. Subsequently, men don't want that outlay wasted after a few wears. 

Suede, in essence, is leather with the top cut off. The resulting exposed nape is delicate and susceptible to scuffing and staining. Before you throw on your new suede jacket, ensure it has been given a barrier of protection to wick away any rain or spilt drinks. We use a spray suitable for nubuck and suede in a well-ventilated space. Get into all the nooks and crevices, topping up once a year to keep it fresh. Any stains post-spray should now disappear after being left to dry naturally. 

Secondly, men want to remove debris while keeping those fibres silky smooth. A suede brush isn't as abrasive as other models, so when used regularly will present a more polished finish. 

After each wear, hang your suede jacket with a sturdy hanger and store away carefully. And voila, your new favourite jacket is ready when you need it. 

1. Nudie Jeans Suede Cognac Jacket

Steve Leather Jacket Cognac

This jacket is crafted from supple, soft goat leather in a distinctive cognac colour. A classic cut, the ribbed waistline nips in the silhouette to contrast what you wear on the bottom half. Finished with front-patch pockets and slip-inside side ones, it is an understated, relaxed choice.

2. Club Monaco Suede Bomber Jacket

Club Monaco Bomber Jacket

Club Monaco has created a suede jacket in a timeless design that will easily become a staple piece. The streamlined bomber comes with the added luxury of being silk-lined inside. We recommend wearing with white jeans for a smart causal spring-summer look.

3. M&S Suede Bomber Jacket

M&S Suede Bomber Jacket

Getting your hands on premium suede can be expensive. M&S allows men to try the material without taking out a second mortgage. Butter-soft suede has been engineered into a regular fit bomber with a baseball collar. A simple, but impactful pick.

4. Hackett Suede Harrington Jacket

Hackett Harrington Jacket

Updating a classic, British brand Hackett has opted for a mandarin collar and forward shoulder seam drop to finish off their Harrington jacket. Small details like the two-way zipper and snap fastening all add extra finesse to an effortless design.

5. Private White VC Mechanic Jacket

Private White VC Mechanic Jacket

Utilising the exquisite goat suede, the brand has left this jacket unlined for a relaxed fit. Ingenious construction notes like an internal smartphone pocket all help to keep the humble suede jacket relevant. While durable fastenings and military-grade copper hardware make it resilient against wear and tear.

6. Massimo Dutti Suede Overshirt

Massimo Dutti Suede Overshirt

Technically an overshirt, this is still a nice alternative menswear piece to see you through transitional months and beyond. Wear with a simple tee underneath or layer with knitwear on chillier days. It's versatile with a laidback edge.

7. Reiss Trucker Jacket

Reiss Suede Trucker Jacket

Reiss has got the memo and nailed it by delivering durability in an elevated aesthetic. The collar and chest pockets add interest, while the minimalist design makes partnering with the rest of your wardrobe a breeze. Why not try pairing it with formal trousers for an updated business look?

8. Percival Suede Western Jacket

Percival Suede Western Jacket

Time to saddle up. This hardwearing pick will become a favourite year after year. The boxy fit and clean, dark colour palette mean you can ride off into the sunset knowing this won't go out of style soon.

9. Paul Smith Suede Trucker Jacket

Paul Smith Suede Trucker Jacket

Paul Smith has done a stellar job crafting this jacket in Italy from premium lamb suede. Cut in a trucker style. There is a lot to like about this elevated classic. Simple, timeless creations made from the finest materials, is something we can get on board with.

10. Tom Ford Shearling Suede Jacket

Tom Ford Shearling Jacket

Made in Italy from super-soft cashmere suede, this jacket shows that by enriching pieces with key materials, we can get more use from them. Utilising warming shearling and an additional lining ensures this can still be worn when the temperatures drop.

11. Eleventy Funnel Neck Suede Bomber

Eleventy bomber jacket

Not made entirely from suede, Eleventy has combined the fabric with cotton sleeves to create a minimalist, refined jacket. An instant winner, this pick will be adept enough to be worn with both formal or casual pieces.

12. Mango Suede-Effect Bomber Jacket

Mango Suede-Effect Bomber Jacket

Ok, we might be cheating a little here. But, we believe the nonchalant, balanced proposition on offer was hard to beat. This suede-effect jacket is a timeless classic that, combined with the wallet-friendly price, had us reaching for our credit cards.

13. Saint Laurent MA-1 Bomber

Saint Laurent MA-1 Bomber

An easy way to instantly update your outfit is by enveloping yourself in the tobacco hues of this Saint Laurent bomber. Crafted from supple lambskin suede, the design is a nod to the historic MA-1 military jacket with a ribbed waist and collar.

14. Ralph Lauren Belted Jacket

Ralph Lauren Belted Jacket

Delivering a utilitarian style, this Ralph Lauren suede jacket has been custom-dyed for a unique look. A modern take on a menswear staple, the dropped shoulder and belted waist create an individual drape that makes this a remarkable piece of outerwear.

15. Mr P. Nubuck Jacket

Mr P. Nubuck Jacket

Taking inspiration from the past to create foundational menswear pieces makes the Mr P. range from Mr Porter timeless. Nubuck has been used in a rich chestnut tone matched with tonal stitching to great effect. Layer with knitwear or a statement shirt for maximum style points.

For stylish men, it pays to have a dependable weekend bag. Whether an enjoyable country getaway or a more formal business trip. Ensuring you have picked correctly, the right travel bag can be a godsend. A sturdy weekend bag with a considered design makes packing a dream. Keeping all your essentials compartmentalised and in tip-top condition for when you need them most. 

Why Choose a Weekend Bag

It is inevitable that the shorter the time away, the fewer items men need to pack. Less days sightseeing or visiting friends means a reduced number of outfit rotations. The benefit of this is that you only need some of the room a carry case might offer. So, you can ditch that old suitcase with the wobbly wheels and upgrade to a handsome new weekend bag.

Not as bulky as a carry case, you have more options for storing a weekend bag as you travel—tucked away nicely in the boot of a car or under the seat on public transport. It feels less of a slog to take with you, even if it means being a little more selective with what you take for the trip. 

How to Pack a Weekend Bag

The key to utilising your weekend bag to full effect is preparation. Are you going to be spending time outdoors? What's the weather forecast? etc. Once we know more, men can filter out items that don't fit the brief. 

I'd recommend taking one pair of shoes. Remember you'll have a pair on whilst travelling. Then cover the basics, such as wash bag, socks and underwear. No one wants to be caught short in this department. 

Next, pack comfortable and versatile garments. Knitwear, chinos and oxford shirts, for example, are interchangeable. Meaning they can produce different variants of smart casual attire. These pieces can also be rolled to save space in your bag. Lastly, use any gaps to fill with accessories and tech that don't need to be more securely packed. We don't want our precious watch or passport loose at the bottom of our bag.  

Keep reading to find our picks of the best weekend bags we recommend, from Filson to COS. There is something for every budget. 

1. Filson Rugged Twill Duffle

Filson Rugged Twill Duffle Bag

Filson has produced a scuff-resistant bag that is hardy enough to join you on any journey. Brass zippers and storm-repellent flaps combine with durable, water-resistant fabric to make a robust choice for the adventurous man. In addition, this bag has been carefully mapped out to meet maximum cabin requirements. So, no surprise bills at check-in.

2. Troubadour Weekender Holdall

Troubadour Weekender Holdall

This clean-lined weekend bag from accessory experts, Troubadour has been created to withstand the elements. The water-resistant material has been reinforced with leather to develop an enduring bag built to last.

3. M&S Premium Leather Weekend Bag

M&S Premium Leather Weekend Bag

M&S is a reliable choice for wallet-friendly menswear that won't buckle under the strain of modern life. Crafted from premium leather, this bag encloses inner zipped compartments to keep your garments and valuables organised and secure.

4. COS Desserto Weekend Bag

COS Desserto Weekend Bag

COS has harnessed Desserto®, a plant-based material, to craft this overnight bag. Inside is a padded laptop sleeve and slip pockets, making this an ideal accompaniment for any short stays.

5. Reiss Carter Travel Bag

Reiss Carter Travel Bag

Travel in style with this sleek leather option from the British brand, Reiss. Black, luxurious leather has been crafted into a pared-back design that seamlessly integrates into any gent's wardrobe. It's understated but deceivingly tailored, with all the hallmarks of quality you expect from the brand.

6. Arket 48hr Tote Bag

Arket 48hr Tote Bag

Giving us an understated, minimalist design, Arket has played to its strengths with this bag. With enough room for everything a man needs for a couple of days, it is produced from a water-repellent shell fabric of recycled nylon. For longer stays, you can level up to the 72hr alternative.

7. Maverick & Co Barcelona Weekender Bag

Maverick & Co Barcelona Weekender Bag

You don't have to be a fan of the football team to marvel at the majestic beauty of this weekender. Yes, it's in collaboration with Barcelona, but the colourway and elevated design make this bag a real winner.

8. Bennett Winch Weekender

Bennett Winch Weekender

This weekend holdall was the first bag designed by the founders of this brand, and they struck gold with this piece. The rugged aesthetic houses waterproof pockets and the exterior has been cut from durable cotton canvas and trimmed with leather. The fact it is made on these shores is a bonus.

9. Loewe Amazona Leather-Trimmed Holdall

Loewe Amazona Leather-Trimmed Holdall

Looking for a twist on your traditional travel accessory? This bag was originally created by Loewe 40 years ago, and with the cycles of fashion, it has returned to the fore. The signature anagram-jacquard canvas has been reinforced with leather and finished with hand-painted edges. It is a statement, and the price matches this audacious exterior.

10. Hackett Suede Bowling Bag

Hackett Suede Bowling Bag

Cultivators of classic British style, Hackett has manufactured this bowling bag using the finest Italian suede. Men also benefit from full-grain leather reinforcement keeping your travel wardrobe (or bowling ball) nicely contained.

11. GANT Essential Duffle Bag

GANT Essential Duffle Bag

Sometimes all men need is a simple, reliable accessory. The GANT holdall won't win any design prize, but the laidback nature hides a piece crafted from premium cordura. Currently half-price on the GANT website. This won't be around for long.

12. Kovered Waxed Canvas Holdall

Kovered Waxed Canvas Holdall

There is something distinctly British countryside about waxed cotton. This large, capacity holdall has all the space you need for a trip outside the city, with a vintage feel to the style. The bag has been treated to withstand the worst of weather and given unique accessories like full-grain leather handles for added quality.

13. Antler Prestwick Bag

Antler Prestwick Bag

From a brand well-versed in travel goods, comes this spacious weekend bag. The refined silhouette houses multiple storage compartments in a water-resistance matte finish. A great pick for that important business trip.

14. Away Luggage Duffle Bag

Away Luggage Duffle Bag

This might be a compact duffle bag, but don't let that fool you. There is enough storage for everything you might need for a four-day getaway. Made from recycled, water- and abrasion-resistant materials, it is lightweight and durable, with an additional shoulder strap for travel comfort.

15. Stubble & Co Weekend Bag

Stubble & Co Weekend Bag

This neat overnight bag is an ideal carry-on-sized holdall designed for short breaks. Crafted with British Millerain Tekwax® water-resistant canvas, it includes a handy laptop compartment within its 40-litre storage area.

The rugged older brother of the classic tee, a henley shirt, delivers a masculine upgrade to a foundational piece. Like a polo shirt without the collar, it takes its name from the town of Henley-on-Thames. Home to rowing enthusiasts and an annual regatta, it was here that it transitioned from undergarment to outdoor sports clothing due to its weight and comforting nature—no annoying collars flapping in your face while you row the waterways.

Fast-forward to the modern day, the rowing staple firmly has its feet in casual menswear. Worn on film by Ryan Gosling in Drive and Daniel Craig in No Time To Die, it exudes toughness. But, even to us pacifists, the henley shirt is a versatile piece.

The key to styling is in the weight. Long-sleeve, thermal options make great layering additions to winter wardrobes. In contrast, men can wear a heavier gauge alone or under a transitional jacket for warmer days.

Peruse our picks of the best henley shirts, whichever way you wear them. From James Bond-approved Rag & Bone versions to luxury silk/cotton blends from Tom Ford, we have a pick for every budget.

1. Rag & Bone Classic Flame L/S Henley

Rag & Bone Classic Flame L/S Top

Is there a better product placement for a brand than being worn on film by James Bond? Our favourite spy chose to wear this brand in No Time To Die. It's a classic fit henley, made from super-soft cotton and finished with metal buttons. The additional gun in a holster is not a recommended accessory.

2. &Sons Elder Henley Shirt Raw

&Sons Elder T-Shirt

Featuring an overlocking stitch to keep those pesky buttons in place. This is a henley shirt that has been built for adventure. Adept at tackling the outdoors, it is manufactured from 1x1 rib 100% natural raw cotton. We especially like the added detail of the turn-up material on the cuff.

3. RRL Waffle-Knit Short-Sleeve Henley Shirt

RRL Waffle-Knit Short-Sleeve Henley Shirt

RRL has matched their short-sleeve version with a waffle finish, delivering an extra edge to this classic piece. This way, men have enough interest to wear it as a standalone piece or layer it under another garment for extra warmth.

4. N.Peal 007 Cashmere Henley Shirt

N.Peal 007 Cashmere Henley Shirt

Despite not being the top he wears, this N.Peal henley is inspired by James Bond himself. Beautifully crafted from a 15% cashmere and 85% Supima cotton mix, it delivers cooling properties while keeping you warm and snug. All that's missing is a log fire and nice whiskey.

5. Everlane Waffle Long Sleeve Henley

Everlane Waffle Long Sleeve Henley

Manufactured from GOTS-certified organic cotton, sustainability is a credential that Everlane states its reputation on. But, don't overlook that they produce hard-wearing products that easily take men from day to night. This henley is a breathable option that won't cost the earth.

6. Uniqlo Waffle Henley

Uniqlo Waffle Henley

Uniqlo has steadily created an avid following for giving stylish men a place to build their wardrobe basics without breaking the bank. The washed finish gives a soft, airy texture that would look nice paired with a laidback pair of jeans and boots.

7. Tom Ford Henley Crewneck

Tom Ford Henley Crewneck

This premium henley shirt from Tom Ford is at the other end of the pricing scale. Made in Portugal from 60% silk and 40% cotton, it is a lightweight top with a slight stretch built-in. As we have come to expect from Tom Ford, this is an elevated version with a luxury price tag.

8. M&S Brushed Cotton Crew

M&S Brushed Cotton Crew Top

A wallet-friendly choice, M&S have a ton of experience bringing men affordable basics. Unfussy, with a brushed finish, this relaxed fit is an excellent choice for your rotation when the weather gets colder.

9. Ted Baker Duddin Short Sleeve

Ted Baker Duddin Short Sleeve Top

With a clean, modest silhouette. This henley shirt from Ted Baker comes in a natural colourway for a daily twist on casualwear. Layer with a plaid shirt for an all-American look.

10. Octobre Editions Toney Henley Shirt

Octobre Editions Toney Henley  Shirt

A stripped-back, casual classic has been given some added love with a nice pine green colourway. This considered basic immediately takes on a new direction, and coupled with its soft organic cotton make-up, we have a new modern-day favourite.

11. J Crew Garment-Dyed Slub Cotton Henley

j crew slub cotton henley

Distinctive to this henley, the garment-dyed slub cotton used to make it will develop a unique fade of time. This plays nicely into the workwear vibe. Slap it on under a denim jacket, and you'll be ready to tend the ranch.

12. Outerknown Shelter Waffle Henley

recycled cashmer henley shirt

Outerknown, is the brand created by surfing legend, Kelly Slater. At its core is a focus on sustainability; this choice is no different. Crafted from luxurious recycled cashmere and merino wool, men will benefit from the henley's insulation and its soft-to-touch nature.

13. Iron Heart Thermal Henley

thermal henley in navy

Taking the humble henley closer to its undergarment roots, Ironheart has assembled a versatile and hardwearing thermal piece of clothing. This will become your best friend when temperatures inevitably plummet.

14. Sunspel Henley T-Shirt

sunspel henley t-shirt

Heading to these shores, we turn to the British luxury brand, Sunspel. They have been perfecting luxury basics since 1860, and this garment is no different. Referencing their archive, the top has a ribbed cuff and refined trocas button placket. The result is a contemporary take on a British classic.

15. Suit Supply Supima Cotton Henley

suit supply white long sleeve tee

Not content with helping us guys nail our tailored looks. Suit Supply is also turning to more casual elements of a gents wardrobe. They have harnessed soft Supima cotton, which won't wilt under heavy wear and updated a winning formula with a slightly curved hem.

Chore jackets are a staple of our transitional wardrobe. A functional design with a sharp, masculine exterior means this item is versatile enough to be included in a range of looks.

With unpredictable British weather, we need pieces we can throw on or throw off on a whim. A gust of wind or impending shower can all be on the horizon. So, it is good to know we can rely on a classic chore jacket to see us through.

This Norse Projects pick has all the minimalist charm you would expect from a Scandinavian brand. But, it has been carefully crafted from organic cotton twill in a dark navy colourway.

Style this chore jacket with chinos and white trainers for an off-duty weekend outfit. Or, add some formal trousers and a cashmere jumper for a smart-casual ensemble.

This pick is an online exclusive and won't hang around as stock numbers dwindle.

£137 at END Clothing

As part of their massive 55% off Valentine's Day sale, men can get their hands on a range of Simba products, including pillows, mattresses and sleep accessories. The popular mattress-in-a-box brand has slashed prices on its entire site.

There is no better time to replace that old mattress and invest in a new one that comes with all an eye-popping seven layers of Simbatex foam, springs and wool.

The Hybrid® Essential might be their entry-level mattress, but it is still chock-full of Simba's patented sleep technology. Ensuring after a busy day you'll be sleeping soundly.

Combine the Hybrid Essential with the Hybrid® Firm Pillow, and you'll run the risk of not wanting to get out of bed in the morning. The foam-enclosed Aerocoil® springs offer much-needed support below two softer pillows.

With prices starting as low as £99 for a mattress protector. Now is your chance to get a better night's sleep while saving money. But hurry, this offer won't be around for much longer.

Visit Simbasleep.com

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