The pocket square has ancient origins that can be traced from ancient Egypt, Rome and Greece. A white linen pocket square was used only by the wealthiest. During Middle Ages the pocket square was mainly made of silk and fragranced in order to block the bad smells on the streets. The inventor of the first real pocket square is considered to be King Richard II, who used the pocket square as a fashion accessory, therefore he wanted to use only large patterns. At the court of Louis XVI, in France, the pocket square is also a regular feature usually made from silk and featuring beautiful embroidery. Beyond its utilitarian trait, the handkerchief is already a fashion accessory that keeps evolving.

During the 19^th Century with the rise of the two piece suit, men started wearing their pocket square in the breast pocket of their suit. Men would carry two handkerchiefs, one in their pocket that had the role of a tissue and another one in their jacket as a fashion garment.

The 20^th Century sees the rise of the pocket square as a sign of elegance. The advancement of industrial production allows the creation of an array of colours and patterns. Famous Hollywood actors start wearing the pocket square such as Cary Grant, Gary Cooper and Frank Sinatra, this cements the pocket square as a fashion accessory.