If working from home over the last few years has made you completely forget how to tie a tie, don't worry, we've got you. While this is something that a lot of us learn from a very young age, just like calculus and learning how to play a recorder, it's not something that we all end up doing come adulthood.
With all that said, if you're thinking of swapping the hoodies, sweats, and slides for a suits, shirts, and dress shoes, this definitive guide was made just for you. If you're feeling extra fancy, however, maybe you should check out our bow tie article instead.
Before we get started, there are literally hundreds of ways that you can tie your tie, and just like everything in life, not all of them are created equally. Differing in shape, size, and symmetry, some knots are like a walk in the park, while others might be more akin to rocket science. Instead of going through every single style, we're going to focus on how to tie three classic knots that will get you from Point A to Point B with next-to-no dramas.
What is the best way to tie your tie?
Four-In-Hand Knot
When it comes to tying your tie, the Four-In-Hand Knot is, by far, the most popular style. Named after a 19th century Gentleman's Club, begin by placing the wider end of your tie on the right, and the smaller end on the left. Pull the latter so that the tip is just above your belly button, and then cross the wide side above the small side to the left.
Afterwards, slide the wider end under the smaller end to the right, and then wrap it across the front. Now, with one hand, slip it up into the neck loop and down through the loop that you've just made. Tighten the tie by pulling down on it, and then slide the knot up to adjust accordingly. If it feels a little too tight, shift the knot slightly down, and you're good to go. Simple.
Half-Windsor Knot
Want a knot that's still pretty straightforward but not as mainstream? Then the Half-Windsor Knot was made just for you. Begin with the wider end of your tie on the right, and the smaller end on the left. Just like the Four-In-Hand, place the latter so that the tip is resting just above your belly button, and then cross the wide side above the small side to your left, up through the neck loop from underneath, and then down again towards the left.
Next stop, take the wider end across the front and over to the right, and again, slip it up into the neck loop from underneath, and down through the loop that you've just made. Tighten your masterpiece by pulling down on the tie, and adjust it by sliding the knot up or down.
Windsor Knot
Want to go all or nothing? Then the Windsor Knot is where it's at. Inspired by the Duke of Windsor, who was known for his thicc ties, this style was originally invented so that everyone could steal his impeccable style.
Just like the Half-Windsor, begin with the wider end of your tie on the right, and the smaller end on the left. Pull the latter so that the tip is resting just above your belly button, and then place the wide side above the small side to your left.
Unlike the other two knots, immediately slide the wider section up into the neck loop from underneath and then down towards the left. Bring it around the back towards the other side, up through the neck loop again, and down to the right so that it's fully symmetrical. As if you're wrapping a burrito, bring the wider end to the front to envelop the knot, and up into the neck loop from underneath. To finish, slip it down through the loop that you've just made, and keep it secure by pulling down on the tie and adjusting the knot up and down for optimum comfort. Et voilà, a style that is quite literally fit for a king.
