How to Knot a Tie

There are several standard ways to knot a tie: The Four-in-Hand knot, The Windsor (Double Windsor) knot and the Half-Windsor knot are the most common.

Whichever you choose, each should be tied so that there is a Dimple or crease in the center of the tie just below the knot. This forces the tie to billow and creates a fullness that is the Secret to its proper draping.

How to tie the Four-in-Hand knot

This knot is narrow and slightly asymmetrical. It is the perfect knot for a standard button-down dress shirt.

1. The wide end "A" should extend about 12" below narrow end "B". Cross wide end "A" over narrow end "B"

2. Turn wide end "A" back underneath narrow end "B"

The Dimple
1. After you've tied your knot but before you tighten it up to your throat, neatly pinch the fabric directly underneath the knot.
2. Keep pinching as you tighten the knot; make sure the dimple's locked in.

The Half Windsor knot

Symmetrical and Triangular.
A knot you can use with any dress shirt.

1. The wide end "A" should extend about 12 inches below narrow end "B". Cross wide end "A" over narrow end "B".
2. Bring wide end "A" up around and behind narrow end "B".
3. Bring wide end "A" up.
4. Pull wide end "A" up and through the loop.
5. Bring wide end "A" around front, over narrow end "B" from left to right.
6. Again, bring wide end "A" up and through the loop.
7. Bring wide end "A" down through the knot in front.
8. Using both hands, tighten the knot carefully and draw up to collar.

Wide and Triangular.
A full knot best suited for spread collar shirts. 

1. The wide end "A" should extend about 12 inches below narrow end "B". Cross wide end "A" over narrow end "B".

2. Bring wide end "A" up through loop between collar and tie; then back down.

5. Pull wide end "A" up through the loop again.

 
  6. Bring wide end "A" down through the knot in front. Using both hands, tighten the knot carefully and draw up to collar.