Tying your tie – perfect knot, correct length
How to tie the most important tie knots
Did you know that there are more than 200 different tie knots? To make sure that you know how to tie your tie properly and to your satisfaction, you should first have a look at some of them. We introduce the most common tie knots, including instructions on how to tie them properly.
The simple knot
A simple knot ("Four-in-hand") can be enough to make a suited man look smart at a wedding. This loop elongates the neck and with a little bit of practice, it is easy to tie in just ten seconds even for beginners. To attach the loop properly to the shirt, you should keep to the following steps:
Put the wide end of the tie across the narrow end at the neck.
In the next step, you guide the wider tie end through the narrow end on the right-hand side so that both ends cross at the front.
Then pull the wide end upwards from the front and down through the loop. All you have to do now to make sure your tie sits right is to push the knot upwards.
The double-tied tie knot
This tie knot is double wound, simple Four-in-Hand that is more voluminous. If you are a taller man, this rather short loop may be problematic. Another, long tie may be a better choice for you. Of course, we show you how to tie such a knot:
First of all, you place the tie on your neck with the wide end slightly longer and pointing to the right and down.
Then you cross the ends, just like you would do for the other knots, before guiding the wider end under the narrow end towards the right.
On the same side, guide the wide end again around the narrow end towards the left-hand side to create a double knot.
Now you continue in the same way you would for a simple knot: Pull the wide end upwards, towards the front and down through the loop. Make sure you tighten the knot afterwards and arrange it so it sits in the right position.
The Pretty Shelby Knot
This version is known as the American version of the Windsor Knot. As the tie initially lies around the neck reversed for this knot, it takes a bit of practice. But, this knot can be tied with almost all ties, as it is suitable for many occasions. We know explain you the simple way to tie this alternative to a Windsor Knot:
Position the tie around your neck with the reverse on the outside. Make sure that the wider end hangs down further than the other.
Make the wide end meet the narrow end, guiding it from behind. Then put the wide side again along the top of your neck. From there, pull it through downwards to the other side.
You should now arrange the knot created in this way precisely and tighten it once it is in the perfect position.
Tip: A "dimple" on your tie is the fashion icing on the cake. If you want to create a small dimple below the knot, you can simply shape one using your finger before you tighten the knot.
The Double Windsor Knot
A large Windsor Knot is more difficult to tie than a Four-in-Hand. Thanks to its long shape, this knot is suitable for sophisticated meetings and festive occasions. You tie these knows using the following tricks:
Pass the longer end of the tie over the narrower end to form a cross.
Push the wide end through the narrow end from below, it should then point towards the right side of your chest. This results in a knot. During this step, make sure that you hold the ends tightly so their respective lengths cant change.
Guide the wide end under the narrow end to the other side of your body.
Pass the wide end of the tie through the narrow end again.
Pull the wide end through the loop twice from the front.
Finally, push the narrow end through the loop from the back.
The Oriental Knot
It doesnt take long to learn the tying technique for a so-called Oriental Knot. This elegant, fine loop is suitable for thick as well as thin ties. To tie this knot, follow these steps:
This is an "inside out" knot, meaning that the reverse of the tie faces outwards.
First of all, put the wide end to the left-hand side in order to pull it through the narrow end. At this stage, both ends cross.
Pull the wide end upwards towards your head, then guide it through the loop from above. You can then pull the finished Oriental Knot tight and tidy it.
The right length – what's important?
The right length – what's important?
A well-tied tie is only the perfect finishing touch for your outfit if it is neither too short nor too long. To make sure that you choose the correct length right from the start, you should keep the following basic rules in mind:
The wide, front end always covers the narrower end. When the tie is tied correctly, the narrow end is invisible. Good accessories feature loops for this purpose that keep the tie in place.
The tip of stylish ties of all types reaches down to the belt and no further.
The perfect knot for every occasion
A tie must match the respective occasion. We therefore show you which knot guarantees a stylish look for professional as well as private functions.
The right knot for casual events
Even if you are "only" attending a casual event, you don't have to forego a tie.
With a plain tie with a subtle texture tied in a Four-in-Hand or an Oriental Knot, you'll look casual, and not overdressed.
Double Windsor Knot for festive occasions
An elegant Windsor Knot is the perfect choice for festive occasions. Overall, it requires more fabric and a greater tie length than simple knots. Combine it with a shirt with a Kent or a cutaway collar for the perfect, confident and serious business look.