The basic handkerchief is available in a variety of different shades of color, though each does have a specific utility value to it.
For instance, the standard white cotton handkerchief preferred by most men is usually kept in the pocket for wiping hands or blowing the nose. These days you can pick from greys, nudes, beige and an array of other colors for these practical applications.
But handkerchiefs can also be used primarily as a decorative element in a man’s ensemble. Such handkerchiefs might never get heavy use, but could be produced occasionally. For that application a handkerchief could be in a solid color or might carry a printed design. A handkerchief with a white solid background and a border in a contrasting color is a versatile and commonly employed option.
When an individual is using the handkerchief as a pocket square, which will rarely if ever have the day-to-day use of the standard white square, the colors can be bolder and more vibrant.