How to Tie a Tie
Learning to tie a tie is one of those essential skills every person should know. Whether you are getting ready for a job interview, a wedding, or a formal dinner, the right knot makes all the difference. Below you will find step-by-step instructions for the three most popular tie knots, along with guidance on when to use each one.
Four-in-Hand Knot
The most common and versatile tie knot. Slightly asymmetrical with a narrow profile.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Drape the tie around your neck with the wide end on your right, extending about 12 inches below the narrow end.
- 2Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
- 3Wrap the wide end under the narrow end from right to left.
- 4Bring the wide end back over the narrow end from left to right.
- 5Pull the wide end up through the loop around your neck from underneath.
- 6Thread the wide end down through the front loop you just created.
- 7Tighten by holding the narrow end and sliding the knot up.
Half Windsor Knot
A medium-sized, symmetrical triangular knot. The go-to for business settings.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Drape the tie with the wide end on your right, about 12 inches longer than the narrow end.
- 2Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
- 3Bring the wide end around and behind the narrow end.
- 4Bring it up through the neck loop.
- 5Pass the wide end over the front from right to left.
- 6Bring it up through the neck loop again.
- 7Thread it down through the front loop.
- 8Adjust and tighten evenly.
Full Windsor Knot
A large, symmetrical triangular knot. Best for formal occasions and spread collars.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1Drape the tie with the wide end on your right, about 12 inches longer than the narrow end.
- 2Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
- 3Bring the wide end up through the neck loop from underneath.
- 4Bring it down to the left.
- 5Pass it behind the narrow end to the right.
- 6Bring it up through the neck loop again.
- 7Pass the wide end over the front from right to left.
- 8Bring it up through the neck loop one more time.
- 9Thread it down through the front loop.
- 10Adjust both sides evenly for a symmetrical triangle.
Tips for the Perfect Tie Knot
Which Knot for Which Occasion
Use the Four-in-Hand for everyday wear and casual events. Choose the Half Windsor for business meetings, job interviews, and office settings. Save the Full Windsor for formal occasions like weddings, galas, and black-tie-optional events.
The Tie Dimple Trick
For a polished look, create a small dimple just below the knot. Before tightening the knot completely, use your index finger to press a crease into the center of the wide end right below the knot. Then slide the knot up while maintaining the dimple with your finger.
Proper Tie Length
The tip of your tie should just touch the top of your belt buckle. If the tie hangs below your belt, start with less of the wide end hanging down. If it is too short, give the wide end more length before you begin tying. Check our tie length guide for recommendations based on your height.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest tie knot to learn?
The Four-in-Hand knot is the easiest tie knot to learn. It requires the fewest steps and produces a slim, slightly asymmetrical knot that works with almost any collar style.
Which tie knot is best for a job interview?
The Half Windsor is the best knot for a job interview. It produces a clean, symmetrical triangle that looks polished and professional without being overly formal.
How long should a tie be when tied?
A properly tied tie should have its tip just touching the top of your belt buckle. The narrow end should not be visible below the wide end.
What is the difference between a Half Windsor and Full Windsor?
The Half Windsor creates a medium-sized triangular knot suitable for business settings, while the Full Windsor produces a larger, more symmetrical knot best for formal occasions and wide-spread collars. The Full Windsor uses more tie length and requires additional wrapping steps.
Can I wear any tie knot with any collar?
While you can technically use any knot with any collar, certain combinations look best. Narrow knots like the Four-in-Hand suit standard and button-down collars, while larger knots like the Full Windsor are best paired with wide-spread or cutaway collars.