King Charles keeps old-school handkerchief tradition alive during royal visits
From royal fashion statements to practical solutions handkerchiefs remain relevant despite modern criticism. A deep-dive into the world of pocket squares shows both their historical significance and current-day uses
In the mid-twentieth century Gilbert Harding made clever use of his hanky - heʼd wrap it behind his neck to steady his morning brandy-and-pills ritual (a rather un-orthodox method that actually worked)
The tradition lives on through King Charles who during his recent Australia-Samoa tour showed off his signature silk pocket squares: not pressed flat but rather styled in a casual balloon-like shape Its quite different from the stiff-looking handkerchiefs youʼd see at fancy restaurants
Sir Harold Hood was another notable hanky-enthusiast who kept his in his sleeve (which didnt stop him from heroic acts like saving a drowning boy) The writerʼs own spotted handkerchiefs became useful during covid times: they worked as face-coverings while adding a touch of style
Well‚ that is absolutely vile news
The modern-day handkerchief faces some push-back: people dont like the idea of re-usable nose-wiping tools But these versatile squares have many uses:
- Emergency sun protection
- Car-repair hand-wiping
- Magic trick props
- Traditional dance accessories
- Emergency signaling tools
Back in 2019 handkerchiefs almost made an eco-friendly comeback as part of the anti-waste movement - then covid happened with its catch-it-bin-it-kill-it message However theres still hope for these practical accessories to find their place in todays world
