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Home » Style » How to Tie a Tie: A Step-By-Step Guide

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

Updated: March 13, 2024 by David Em
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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.

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.

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Hi, I’m David Em. I’m the Founder and Editor of Next Level Gents, a men’s lifestyle blog I started in 2018. I live in Kansas City with my wife and daughter. My goal is to share in-depth advice and tips to help you dress well and elevate your life. Learn More About Me

 

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