Style guide

How to Tie a Tie

How to Tie a Tie? Tying a tie in a manner that complements the occasion and your overall attire is a common inquiry from our customers. With a plethora of knots available, almost as varied as the materials used for ties, it's crucial that the process remains straightforward. Ideally, an observer shouldn't be able to discern whether it's your first time donning a tie or if it's a daily ritual. By mastering just two fundamental knots, you can ensure you look impeccable in any scenario. The first knot to perfect is the Four-in-Hand, a classic choice that suits all shirt types and occasions. The second knot, the Windsor, offers a broader and more symmetrical appearance.

Below, you'll find our step-by-step guide to tying a tie. But first, we caught up with our friend Gui Bo, a French style icon and tie-tying expert. Regardless of the occasion, Monsieur Gui favours the double four-in-hand knot. Watch Gui demonstrate his preferred knot here: Double Four-in-Hand.

Five Essential Tie Knots

How to Tie a Four-in-Hand

Our preferred knot is the Four-in-Hand. The origins of this knot are debated; some suggest it was used by horse-and-carriage drivers to secure their reins, while others believe it was to fasten scarves against the cold. Perhaps more plausible is the notion that it was popularised by members of the Four-in-Hand Club in London, thus making it fashionable. Regardless of its history, we adore this knot for its versatility and slightly asymmetric appearance, which we consider sophisticated. It complements all shirt collars splendidly.

Place the tie around your neck with the broader end on your right side. It should hang lower than the narrower end, approximately around the fourth shirt button.
Take the broad end in your right hand and cross it over the narrow end.
Wrap the wide end around the narrow end.
Then, pull the wide end up and through the loop around your neck.
Hold the front of the knot loosely with your index finger and bring the wide end down the front loop.
Finally, remove your finger and tighten the knot carefully to the collar by holding the narrow end and sliding the knot up.

How to Tie a Prince Albert Knot

The Prince Albert knot provides slightly more volume than a simple Four-in-Hand, resulting in a more formal, refined look. It pairs well with suits and we recommend using fine silk ties for this knot, as silk is easier to fold.

Drape the tie around your neck with the broader end on your right side, hanging lower than the narrow end.
Cross the broad end over the small end to the left.
Pass it under the small end to the right.
Cross it over the front to the left.
Pass it under the small end to the right again.
Cross it over the front to the left.
Pull it up into the neck loop from underneath.
Slide it down through both loops at the front.
Tighten the knot by pulling down on the broad end, sliding the knot upwards and adjusting as needed. The first loop should be slightly visible beneath the second loop.

How to Tie a Half Windsor Knot

The Half-Windsor, or Single Windsor, is a favoured knot that forms a neat, triangular shape. It is slightly larger than the Four-in-Hand but smaller than the Full Windsor. This knot is ideal for those seeking a more formal appearance than the Four-in-Hand offers, while still allowing for a touch of playfulness. A Single Windsor resembles a Full Windsor but is pulled through the loop on one side only.

How to Tie an Oriental Knot

The Oriental, or simple knot, is one of the easiest and lightest tie knots to master. It is often the first knot taught and is best suited for shirts with smaller collars, as it maintains balance. The Oriental knot is ideal for sturdier materials, such as flannel, as a thick tie doesn't require a thick knot.

Drape the tie around your neck with the broader end on your right side, hanging lower than the narrow end.
Cross the broad end over the small end to the left.
Pass it under the small end to the right.
Move the broad end under the small end to the left.
Cross it over the small end to the right.
Pull it up into the neck loop from underneath.
Slide it down through the loop you've just made at the front.
Tighten the knot by pulling down on the broad end, sliding the knot upwards and adjusting as needed.

How to Tie a Windsor Knot

For a polished, sharp, and formal appearance, the Windsor knot is the quintessential choice. Favoured by American presidents, it has earned the nickname 'Presidential Knot'. Despite its name, the knot has no connection to the Duke of Windsor, who preferred the Four-in-Hand. The Windsor knot's symmetrical, triangular shape pairs best with shirt collars that have a wider spread, such as the cutaway collar. We recommend using formal materials like silk or thin wool for this knot.

Start with the broad end of the tie on the right and the small end on the left. The tip of the small end should rest slightly above your belly button (this may vary depending on your height and the tie's length and thickness). Only move the active (broad) end.
1. Cross the broad end over the small end to the left.
2. Pull it up into the neck loop from underneath.
3. Slide it down to the left.
4. Move it around the back of the small end to the right.
5. Pull it up to the centre, towards the neck loop.
6. Slide it through the neck loop and down to the right.
7. Cross it over the front to the left.
8. Pull it up into the neck loop from underneath.
9. Slide it down through the loop you've just created at the front.
10. Tighten the knot by pulling down on the broad end, sliding the knot upwards and adjusting as needed.

We hope this guide has enhanced your understanding and curiosity about tying a tie. Experiment with different knots and decide whether to stick with one or vary your choice depending on your outfit and occasion. The choice is yours.

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