Fashion can sometimes feel like a maze, especially when it comes to classic menswear. One question that often pops up is whether it’s okay to match your tie or bow tie exactly with your pocket square. For years, we’ve been told that these accessories should complement each other, but never match exactly. But after watching Robert Pattinson in Tenet looking sharp in a well-coordinated suit, you might be wondering: does the rule still apply, or is it okay to break tradition?

Here’s the deal: it depends—on your personal style, the situation, and how you pull it off.

The Traditional Rule: Avoiding Exact Matches
The New Approach: Embracing Coordination, Not Exact Matching
The Situation Matters
Conclusion: Confidence Is Key

Historically, the advice has been clear: avoid matching your pocket square directly to your tie. The logic is that the accessories should work together in harmony, but not necessarily mirror one another exactly. The idea is to introduce variety, using the tie and pocket square to highlight different aspects of your look.

Think of the tie as a bold statement and the pocket square as the punctuation. Matching them exactly can feel too “matchy” and might take away from the overall visual interest. Instead, the goal is to use your pocket square to add a subtle touch of contrast or complement the colors in the tie without overshadowing it.

But fashion is evolving, and so are the rules. In recent years, we've seen a shift toward embracing more coordinated styles. Robert Pattinson in Tenet is a prime example of how matching your pocket square with your tie can be done tastefully when done correctly. Instead of using clashing colors or patterns, he pulls off a well-considered combination that makes the outfit look cohesive and sharp.

Here’s how you can make matching your tie and pocket square work for you:

1. Match the Color, Not the Exact Pattern – If you're going for a matching look, try keeping the color palette similar while mixing up the patterns. A solid tie with a subtle patterned pocket square or vice versa can give you a coordinated yet dynamic style.

2. Go Monochrome – One way to break the traditional rule and still look chic is by embracing a monochromatic look. A suit with varying shades of the same color can look sophisticated, and coordinating your accessories within that palette (like matching a red tie with a red pocket square) creates a modern, sleek vibe.

3. Make It Pop – If you do decide to match your tie with your pocket square, make sure it adds something special to your look. A bold contrast with a standout suit, or even the right pop of color, can make this pairing stylish, not stiff.

As with many fashion choices, context is key. While matching your tie and pocket square might work for a red carpet event or a high-fashion photo shoot, it may not always be the best option for more casual or business settings. If you’re attending a wedding, a gala, or a formal event, coordinating your accessories might work, but for more laid-back occasions, a bit of contrast is often preferred.

So, is it still a bad choice to match your tie with your pocket square? Not necessarily. The key is how you execute it. If you feel confident in the look and it fits the vibe of the event, matching can definitely work. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your personal style—whether that means keeping it traditional or embracing a coordinated look like Robert Pattinson in Tenet.

Pocket Squares compliments of J.Hilburn

Ties compliments of Chromatic counsel