How to Tie a Tie: 5 Knots Every Man Should Know

A great tie deserves a knot that does it justice. The right knot depends on your collar, the weight of the fabric, and the occasion. Here are five knots every man should have in his repertoire, from the everyday to the black-tie moment.

1. The Four-in-Hand

The simplest and most versatile knot, the four-in-hand is slightly asymmetrical and narrow, making it ideal for heavier 7-fold silks and button-down collars. It's the knot most men learn first, and it never really goes out of style.

2. The Half-Windsor

A neat, triangular knot that's a size up from the four-in-hand without the bulk of a full Windsor. It pairs well with medium-weight printed silks and spread collars, and it's a great choice for job interviews and client meetings.

3. The Full Windsor

Wide, symmetrical, and confident, the full Windsor was built for cutaway and wide-spread collars. Because it uses more length, it works best with a slightly thinner lining. Save it for your most formal woven silks.

4. The Pratt (Shelby) Knot

A happy medium between the four-in-hand and the Windsor, the Pratt knot is tied starting with the tie lining-side out, which gives it a clean, symmetrical shape without the extra bulk. It's an underrated knot worth learning.

5. The Bow

For black-tie events, nothing else will do. A self-tie bow in silk or woven jacquard is a small detail that signals you didn't reach for a clip-on. Practice a few times before the big night.

Getting the Length Right

Whichever knot you choose, the tip of your tie should just graze the top of your belt buckle. If you find your ties running long or short, adjust your starting length before you begin wrapping, not the knot style.

Ready to put a knot to work? Explore our Woven Silk collection for classic patterns that hold a knot beautifully, or browse Printed Silk for a bolder statement.