Whether you'd like your tie to make a statement, or to subtly complement and balance the rest of your outfit, knowing a variety of knots is integral to bringing your desired look to life.
The following are five classic knots as well as instructions for how to tie them. Last minute meeting? Running late for work? Sometimes you've got to put your tie on in a hurry; pay close attention to knots 1 to 3, which are the quickest and easiest to tie.
1. Simple Knot:
This knot is also known as the Kent Knot and le Petit Noeud. This knot contains the fewest and simplest steps, making it the fastest to tie. The only catch is that it's not self-releasing, so it's a little trickier to untie. This knot is slightly asymmetrical and works well with thick fabric ties and close cut collars.
Instructions:
With the tie's back facing outwards, place the wide end on the right and the narrow on the left. Cross the wide end under the narrow to the left. Fold the wide end over the narrow and to the right. Pull the tie up into the neck loop from underneath and then, down through the small front loop.
2. Four-in-Hand Knot:
The Four-in-Hand Knot, named after a 19th century gentleman's club, is one of the easiest, most popular knots and it's ideal for daily wear. It's also a great choice due to its versatility: it works well with most ties as well as with most collars as it is conical, slender and elongated in shape.
Instructions:
With the tie facing outwards, place the wide end on the right and the narrow on the left. Cross the wide end over the narrow to the left. Fold the tie under the narrow end to the right. Cross it over the front and to the left. Pull the tie up into the neck loop from underneath and then, down through the small front loop.
3. Double Knot:
The Double Knot is very similar to the Four-in-Hand, except it's slightly thicker. It complements most collars, but avoid using this knot with very thick fabric ties.
Instructions:
With the tie facing outwards, place the wide end on the right and the narrow on the left. Cross the wide end over the narrow to the left. Fold the tie under the narrow end to the right. Cross it over the front and to the left. Loop the wide end around one more time. Pull the tie up into the neck loop from underneath and then, down through the small front loop.
4. Half Windsor Knot:
The Half Windsor is a medium sized knot that is nearly symmetrical. It also creates an elegant dimple at the center of the tie. This knot works well with medium to thin fabrics and shirts with a classic or open collar.
Instructions:
With the tie facing outwards, place the wide end on the right and the narrow on the left. Cross the wide end over the narrow to the left. Fold the tie under the narrow end to the right. Pull the tie up towards the centre of the neck loop, through it, then down towards the left. Cross it over the front and to the right. Pull the tie up into the neck loop from underneath and then, down through the small front loop.
5. Windsor Knot:
The Windsor Knot was inspired by the bold knots worn by the Duke of Windsor. It has a wide, symmetrical triangular shape and it's often used for special occasions. It's best suited for spread and wide spaced collars. Take care to center this tie between the two ends of the collar; it must be adjusted to conceal the top shirt button.
Instructions:
With the tie facing outwards, place the wide end on the right and the narrow on the left. Cross the wide end over the narrow to the left. Pull the tie up into the neck loop from underneath and then, down to the left. Fold under the narrow end to the right. Pull the tie up towards the centre of the neck loop, through it, then down towards the right. Cross the tie over the narrow end towards the left. Pull the tie up into the neck loop from underneath and then, through the small front loop.
