The Top Four Tie Knots Everyone Should Know
Whether it’s your first time tying a tie or you’re just looking for a helpful refresh, these step-by-step videos and guides will teach you the basics of (what we think are) the most important tie knots.
How to Tie a Windsor Knot
The Windsor Knot
A Windsor Knot, or “Full Windsor,” is a classic tie knot—and one of the most popular. It’s fuller and more symmetrical than others, so tying the Windsor takes practice. In terms of when to wear it, this knot is worn for formal and semi-formal occasions because of its pristine, elegant appearance. Plus, it pairs best with wide spread-collar shirts, which are suited to dressier events.
1. Place the wide end on your left and the narrow end on your right.
2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
3. Pass the wide end up through the neck loop.
4. Take the wide end down and to the right.
5. Bring the wide end under and to the left.
6. Take the wide end and bring it up and through the neck loop.
7. Cross over the loop to your right to form the knot.
8. Bring it up through the neck loop from below.
9. Pull it through the loosened knot.
10. Tighten and adjust the dimple.
How to Tie a Half Windsor Knot
The Half Windsor Knot
This particular knot is suitable for almost all occasions—which is why it’s one of the most popular. Since it is smaller in size, it can be worn with more collars—such as the button-down, forward point or spread collar. It is appropriate for work and weddings—most semi-formal occasions, in fact. Learning how to tie a Half Windsor is relatively easy, too.
1. Place the wide end on your left and the narrow end on your right.
2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
3. Pass the wide end under the narrow end.
4. Bring up and through the loop.
5. Take the wide end down and to the right.
6. Bring the wide end up to the center and wrap around to form a knot.
7. Pass the wide end through the loop and bring it down.
8. Pull the pointed end up and then down through the knot.
9. Tighten and adjust the dimple.
How to Tie a Four-in-Hand Knot
The Four-in-Hand Knot
Easy to tie and super versatile, the Four-in-Hand knot is a slightly asymmetrical tie knot. Since it is adaptable to most occasions (except the most formal), it pairs well with casual collars—especially the button-down and forward point. It’s the one most men learn to tie first and therefore the most popular.
1. Lay the wide end on your left and narrow end on your right.
2. Cross left over right.
3. Bring the wide end under and back to the left.
4. Take the wide end back over once more.
5. Pull the wide end up through neck loop.
6. Bring it down through front loop.
7. Tighten the knot and adjust the dimple.
How to Tie a Bow Tie
The Bow Tie
The bow tie is a tour de force in its own right. It is a statement that shows you’re debonair, self-aware and not too timid to shy away from the crowd of Four-in-Hands and Half-Windsor tie knots. (Not that there’s anything wrong with them.) Learning how to properly tie a bow tie is not only an important life skill, but a rite of passage. This eye-catching alternative to the standard necktie is a style icon and preppy staple—and easier to execute than you might imagine.
Before we get started:
Adjust your bow tie to be ¼" to ½" larger than neck size.
1. Hang bow tie flat around neck, with one side longer by approximately 1½".
2. Cross the long side over the shorter side.
3. Bring long end underneath and up through neck. (Pull tightly and drape over shoulder.)
4. Pull from middle of hanging side toward draped side to create a bow.
5. Bring top over the middle of the bow.
6. Now for the tricky part. Pinch both ends in front to reveal a loop.
7. Fold and pass it through the loop. You’re almost done.
8. Tug on both folded ends simultaneously to tighten.
9. Alternate between folded and unfolded sides to adjust until bows are even.
Take a Bow
As they say with great sartorial power comes great responsibility, and correctly tying and wearing a bow tie is no exception. A pre-tied or clip-on option is out of the question, and a loosely tied, excessively large or haphazardly askew bow will destroy the whole effect. Be mindful of harmony as well—if your bow tie is busy, your shirt should be subtle and muted. Bow ties are not for wallflowers so overcomplicating them with exaggerated colors and patterns will attract the wrong kind of attention. In terms of fabric, cotton is best for spring and summer months (and casual occasions) whereas silk is best for dressing up.
About the Dimple
Perfecting the dimple in your tie knot takes practice, but the confidence that comes from a masterfully-tied tie is worth the effort. To achieve the perfect dimple, pinch the tie with your thumb and middle finger, then use your index finger to keep the dimple in place as you tighten.
Final Thoughts
The thing to remember most when learning your tie knots is patience. Invariably, it will take several attempts before you feel like a pro. Our advice: You will likely tend to favor one tie knot—but consider branching out and learning all three so you can mix up the look. Reserve a Windsor for your special events, and consider the Four-in-Hand best for everyday occasions. In choosing these three tie knots, we’ve covered all the bases. Another thing to remember is that certain knots pair well with the shape of your face. For instance, rounder faces are best served by the smaller Four-in-Hand knot, while slimmer faces are suited to larger knots, such as the Windsor or Half Windsor.
ABOUT BROOKS BROTHERS
Established in 1818, Brooks Brothers was the first American brand to offer ready-to-wear clothing and has continued throughout history with iconic product introductions including: seersucker, madras, argyle, the non-iron shirt and the original button-down collar. Nearly two centuries later, Brooks Brothers is proud to uphold the same traditions and values and to be the destination for ladies and gentlemen from every generation. Since its founding 201 years ago in New York, Brooks Brothers has become a legendary international retailer while maintaining a steadfast commitment to exceptional service, quality, style and value.
If you need some more assistance, visit Brooks Brothers at Power Plant Mall, Rustan’s Makati - Mens & Central Square, BGC.