Simple Guide for Monogram Etiquettes
But first, what is a monogram?
A monogram is a set of letters -- usually initials of your name or initials combined with one or more people -- that can be interlocked or not, to create a decorative design.
And monogram usage is lot more common that one might think! See how below.
How Monograms Are More Mainstream Than One Might Think
Monograms have been around as early from 350 B.C. to modern-day luxury fashion houses who sometimes use monograms as part of their logos.
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Monograms were first recorded to have appeared on coins in 350 BC. Greek and Roman rulers used initials to authenticate their currencies as well as to mark and identify artifacts and personal effects.
- Fast forward to modern times: Who would have guessed, but take a look at all luxury fashion houses, like Yves St. Laurent (YSL), Louis Vuitton (LV) Coco Chanel (CC), who also incorporate monograms as a logo or symbol for their luxury goods.
- Monogramming on personal and home goods have long been part of the Southern tradition. Southerners love to monogram everything from socks, plates, sweaters, bags, bath robes, stationeries to signet rings. You name it! This act symbolizes their dedication to honor their family heritage and lineage.
Even Reese Witherspoon once said in a Town & Country article,“If it’s not moving, monogram it!”
Why Monogram Your Handkerchiefs?
Handkerchiefs are highly versatile. They are practical for everyday use and are more environmentally friendly.
To make it even more special, you can consider monogramming it, making it a charming and an everlasting keepsake. They'd especially make for touching gifts at weddings as you or your loved ones wipe away your happy tears on such a momentous occasion. You can pass the handkerchief down from one generation to the next, making it a perfect heirloom.
We will have a separate blog on why personalized wedding handkerchiefs are a must as wedding accessories, so stay tuned!
So, let's get down to brass tacks, what are the proper rules to monogramming?
In the below, you'll discover simple letter placements and designs, and classic and modern fonts.
What Are Some Simple Rules for Monograms?
In the examples below, we'll show you some basic placements of initials and designs to start with for both couples and individuals.
Two-intertwined Letter Monogram for Individuals and Couples
For Couple: His & Her First Name Initial
This pretty decorative single initial monogram is commonly used for a ladies handkerchief, and in particular, for the Mother of the Bride for weddings.
For weddings, you can also insert text, such as Mother of the Bride and your wedding date, underneath the monogram design, which can create an even more meaningful keepsake.
Single-letter Monogram
First or Last Name Initial
Three-Letter Monogram for Couples and Individuals
Center: Married Last Name Initial
Right: His First Name Initial
Example: Alexa & Flynn Smith
This classic three-letter monogram can be used for couples, with the groom’s last name being slightly bigger in the center.
Individuals
Left: First Name Initial
Center: Last Name Initial
Right: Middle Name Initial
Example: Amy Francis Smith
You can also use a three-letter monogram design for an individual, with their last name being slightly bigger in the middle.
Modern Three-letter Monogram on Men’s Handkerchiefs
Center: Last Name Initial
Right: Middle Name Initial
This three-letter monogram is a popular choice for men’s handkerchiefs that also provides a modern yet whimsical twist.
Same Size Three-letter Monogram on Men’s Handkerchiefs
Center: Middle Name Initial
Right: Last Name Initial
Example: Robert Samuel Carter
(Just a side note, the size of the initials is typically very small, approximately 0.35” in height compared to a woman’s monogram, which can range from 1.5” to 2.5” in height. For daily use, men definitely prefer their initials on the handkerchiefs to be very small and understated vs. a larger wedding monogram for the Groom, Father of the Bride, etc. to be used once and saved as keepsake.)
Can I Choose Other Font Styles?
You don't need to stick to the font styles presented above. We offer many choices to choose from the below, to make monogramming your handkerchiefs more fun.
