Different Ways to Tie a Tie

There are several different styles of tie knots, so it’s a good idea to know how to tie each style. The type of knot may differ depending upon the tie fabric, style, and formality of the occasion. No matter which style you choose, you might want to consider using silk ties, which add a polished look to any outfit.

1.       Four in Hand

This is the simplest and most common method for how to tie a tie. Because silk ties can be more difficult to manage, this is usually the easiest way to tie them. Start by lifting your shirt collar so it isn’t in the way. Put your tie around your neck, with the wide end hanging down twice as far as the narrow end. Wrap the wide end around the thin end twice, and then push it through the loop formed. Pull the wide end all the way through to the front, then pull on both ends until the knot is tight. Hold on to the thin end while you slide the knot up to your neck. Make sure that the wide end is hanging lower than the thin end. When you are done, put your collar back down.

2.       Windsor Knot

If you’d like to learn how to tie a tie in a more formal way, you might consider the Windsor Knot. There are a few more steps involved than the Four in Hand. Even though it’s more difficult, silk ties look particularly nice with this knot. Here’s how to do it: You’ll start by bringing the wide end of the tie over the narrow end, then pulling the wide end through the middle. Then, bring the wide end over the narrow in the opposite direction that you first did. Bring it behind the narrow end and then up. Push it down through the middle and bring it back to the front. Bring it over the front again in the opposite direction and through the back once more. Hold the front of the knot loose, so you can bring the wide end through the loop in front and tighten it up.

3.       Half Windsor

With the Half Windsor, you’ll learn how to tie a tie in a slightly less formal way than the Full Windsor. If you’re using a silk tie, it’s a very nice option for most occasions. Follow the instructions that you would for the Full Windsor, but leave off the last loop. The knot will be just a bit flatter and wider.

Once you have learned how to tie a tie in these three different ways, you will have covered all of the main looks. The Four in Hand is very simple, and a good look for every day. If you have a nice silk tie to be used for a more formal occasion, the Windsor Knot is an excellent, classic look, and the Half Windsor is great for slightly less formal events.