For many men, tying a tie is an essential skill. Not only is it necessary for certain occasions, but it can also be a great way to add a personal touch to your outfit. If you’re looking to add a bit of variety to your tie collection, or if you need to know how to knot a long tie for a special event, this tutorial is for you. In just a few simple steps, you’ll learn how to knot a long tie like a pro. With this handy guide, you’ll be able to make any look work for any occasion. So whether you’re dressing up for a wedding or simply adding a pop of color to your office attire, don’t be afraid to experiment with different knots and styles.
The Different Types of Tie Knots
Tie knots come in all shapes and sizes, each with their own unique benefits. The most popular tie knots are the four-in-hand, Windsor, half Windsor, and Pratt.
The four-in-hand is the most basic of all the tie knots and is also the quickest to learn. It is created by placing the tie around your neck and then passing the wider end over the thinner end. Once the wider end is over the thinner end, bring it back up through the loop created. Finally, pull down on both ends of the tie to tighten.
The Windsor knot is a bit more complicated than the four-in-hand but creates a much fuller looking knot. To create a Windsor knot, start by placing the tie around your neck with the wider end hanging down about 12 inches lower than the thinner end. Then cross the wide end over the thin end and bring it up through the loop created. Next, pass it around behind the thin end and bring it up through the loop again. Finally, tuck it underneath itself and pull down on both ends of the tie to tighten.
The half Windsor is similar to the Windsor knot but does not create as full of a knot. Start by placing the tie around your neck with one end hanging about 12 inches lower than other. Cross over as you would for a Windsor knot but only pass it through once before tucking underneath and pulling tight on both ends of your tie.
The Four-in-Hand Knot
The Four-in-Hand Knot is the most popular way to knot a long tie. It is a simple, yet elegant knot that is perfect for any occasion. Here is how to tie a Four-in-Hand Knot:
1. Start with the tie inside out and draped over your collar with the wide end hanging down about 12 inches below the narrow end.
2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end and bring it up through the loop around your neck created by the crossed-over fabric.
3. Hold on to the front of the knot with your index finger and thumb and pass the wide end over the narrow end again. Now bring it up through the loop a second time.
4. Tug gently on both ends of the fabric until the knot tightens against your neck and falls into place in front of your shirt collar. Adjust the position of the knot until it looks centered and symmetrical.
The Half Windsor Knot
The Half Windsor Knot is one of the most popular knots for tying a necktie. It is a symmetrical knot that is relatively easy to tie. The Half Windsor Knot is named after the Duke of Windsor, who was known for his preference for this particular knot.
To tie the Half Windsor Knot, start with the wide end of the tie on the right side and extend it about 12 inches below the narrow end. Cross the wide end over the narrow end, and then tuck it underneath. Bring it back up and over the narrow end once more. Now, poke it through the loop that has formed on the underside of the tie.
Pull the wide end all the way through, and then adjust it so that the seam is facing outwards. Finally, hold down the narrow end and slide the knot up towards your collar. Pull tight and you’re done!
The Windsor Knot
The Windsor knot is a wide, triangular tie knot that is most commonly associated with business or formal dress. The Windsor knot is achieved by crossing the wide end of the tie over the narrow end, then passing the wide end up through the loop around the neck and down through the newly formed hole in front. Finally, tighten the knot by holding down the wide end and pulling on the narrow end.
How to Choose the Right Tie Knot
There are a few different ways to knot a long tie and the way you choose should be based on the occasion. For example, if you are dressing for a formal event, you will want to use a Windsor knot. This is a more sophisticated knot and creates a symmetrical triangular shape at the neck.
For a less formal look, you can try the four-in-hand knot. This is a simpler knot that is more relaxed. It is also easy to tie and does not require as much adjusting as the Windsor knot.
If you are wearing a button-down shirt, you may want to try the Pratt knot. This knot works well with collared shirts and creates a clean look.
Finally, the Eldredge knot is a good option for those who want something different. This unique looking knot is made by passing the narrow end of the tie over the wide end two times before tucking it underneath.
When choosing which tie knot to use, keep in mind the occasion and the type of shirt you will be wearing. With these factors in mind, you can select the perfect tie knot for any situation.
Conclusion
With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to tying a long tie like a pro in no time. Just remember to take your time and be patient, and soon you’ll be able to show off your new skills to everyone you know.
