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You are here: Home / Style / How to Tie a Tie: A Step-By-Step Guide

How to Tie a Tie: A Step-By-Step Guide

Published: February 5, 2020 by David Em Updated: May 28, 2022
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Neckties are symbols of honor, nobility, and confidence. If you’re ready to move beyond the clip-on tie, learn how to tie a tie.

Contents show
How to tie a four-in-hand knot
How to tie a half-Windsor knot
How to tie a Windsor knot
Conclusion

How to tie a four-in-hand knot

The four-in-hand knot is also known as a simple knot. It’s versatile, straightforward, and the easiest knot to tie.

If your tie has a thicker material, the slim and slightly asymmetrical shape makes it the best choice.

Related article: The best tie colors to wear with a blue suit

You can’t go wrong with the four-in-hand knot.

The following is a video, infographic, and list of the steps to tie it.

Four-in-hand knot video tutorial.

The steps for tying the four-in-hand knot are as follows:

  1. Drape the tie around your neck with the wide end on the right side.
  2. Adjust the thin end to be at the top of your belly button.
  3. Pull the wide end over the narrow end.
  4. Cross the wide end under the narrow side.
  5. Pull the wide end up between your neck and the tie.
  6. Push the wide end into the loop.
  7. Tighten and straighten your tie.
Step-by-step guide showing how to tie a Four-in-Hand knot.

How to tie a half-Windsor knot

The half-Windsor knot provides a symmetrical triangle smaller than the full Windsor.

It’s about three-quarters the size of a full Windsor knot.

It’s versatile and works best with a standard or spread collar. Also, it looks best with lighter fabrics.

Take the following steps to tie the half-Windsor knot:

  1. Drape the tie around your neck with the wide end on the right side.
  2. Adjust the thin end to be at the top of your belly button.
  3. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
  4. Pull the wide end under the narrow end.
  5. Bring the wide end up towards the neck look.
  6. Pull the wide end through the neck look and to the side.
  7. Cross the wide end over the knot.
  8. Pull the wide end up between your neck and the tie.
  9. Pull the wide end down through the loop of the knot.
  10. Tighten and straighten your tie.

How to tie a Windsor knot

The Windsor knot is also known as the full or double Windsor.

It offers a large and symmetrical knot ideal for formal occasions.

Also, it’s an excellent knot to use when you wear a dress shirt with a spread collar.

The Windsor knot exudes elegance and confidence.

Take the following steps to tie the Windsor knot:

  1. Drape the tie around your neck with the wide end on the right side.
  2. Adjust the wide end to be about 12 inches lower than the narrow end.
  3. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
  4. Pull the wide end up through the neck loop.
  5. Bring the tie back down to the left of the narrow end.
  6. Cross the wide end under the narrow end.
  7. Pull the wide end up towards the neck loop.
  8. Bring the wide end back down to the right of the narrow end.
  9. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
  10. Pull the wide end up through the neck loop from underneath.
  11. Tighten and straighten the knot.
Step-by-step guide showing how to tie a Windsor knot.

Conclusion

The four-in-hand knot is the most versatile. The half-Windsor and Windsor knots are excellent for spread collar shirts.

Learn how to tie a tie to ensure you look stylish, professional, and confident.

Whether you’re attending a wedding or interview, it’s an essential skill to have.

Featured photo by David Em/Next Level Gents.

Portrait of David Em.

About David Em

Founder

David Em is the founder of Next Level Gents, the ultimate destination for tips and advice about style, grooming, fitness, and success.

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