How to Tie a Tie: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for All Knot Types
From the simple four-in-hand to the elegant Windsor and bow tie, this guide shows clear steps, diagrams, pro tips and fixes for common mistakes—perfect for weddings, job interviews and formal events.
Quick Answer: For speed and reliability, use the four-in-hand. Cross the wide end over the narrow, wrap behind, go up through the neck loop, then down through the front loop and tighten with a small dimple.
Preparation: choose the right tie, collar and shirt
Match knot size to your collar spread and tie thickness. The tip of the tie should touch the belt buckle when you’re done.
| Tie | Best for | Width | Collar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skinny | Casual, slim suits | 2–2.5″ | Narrow spread |
| Standard | Business, weddings | 3–3.5″ | Spread / cutaway |
| Bow tie | Black tie | — | Wing |
Pro tip: Practice once on your thigh (not in the mirror) to learn the hand sequence.
Basic knots: Four-in-Hand, Half-Windsor, Simple
Four-in-Hand (casual, slim)
- Drape tie with wide end on the right, ~12″ longer.
- Cross wide over narrow; wrap behind to the right.
- Go up through the neck loop.
- Down through the front loop; tighten and add a dimple.
Half-Windsor (versatile, medium)
- Cross wide over narrow and up through the neck loop.
- Down to the left, wrap behind, up again through the neck loop.
- Down through the front loop; tighten symmetrically.
Simple knot (quick everyday)
- Cross wide over narrow; wrap behind and up.
- Down through the loop in front; tighten.
Advanced knots: Full Windsor, Bow Tie, Eldredge, Trinity, Pratt, Kelvin, Prince Albert
Full Windsor (formal, symmetrical)
Large triangular knot that fills wide collars.
- Cross wide over narrow; up through neck and down left.
- Wrap behind to the right; up through neck and down right.
- Cross front, up through neck and down through the front loop; tighten.
Bow tie (black tie)
- Cross right over left and up through neck.
- Fold left into a bow; drop right over it.
- Fold right, push through the back loop; tighten.
Eldredge / Trinity / Pratt / Kelvin / Prince Albert
Use thinner ties for complex knots to avoid bulk. Keep wraps snug and adjust slowly while tightening.
Common mistakes & how to fix them
| Mistake | Why | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Tie too short/long | Wrong starting length | Start with wide end set to finish at belt buckle. |
| No dimple | Knot tightened flat | Pinch the center as you slide the knot up. |
| Asymmetrical | Uneven tension | Keep each wrap snug; tighten from the narrow end. |
| Bulky knot | Thick fabric | Choose four-in-hand or Kelvin instead. |
Pro tip: Steam creases out—never press a silk tie directly with a hot iron.
Tie care & maintenance
- Untie by reversing steps—don’t yank the small end.
- Hang or gently roll; spot-clean silk, dry-clean wool.
- When travelling, roll ties and place in a socks cylinder.
FAQ
What’s the easiest knot for beginners?
Four-in-hand—fast, reliable and works with most shirts.
Which knot for weddings?
Full Windsor for wide collars and a formal look.
How long should a tie be?
The tip should just touch the belt buckle.
How do I make a dimple?
Pinch the fabric under the knot and tighten slowly.
