Tie a TIE - Learn Step by Step

Whether for business or social occasions, certain ensembles look better with a tie. Located underneath the shirt collar and knotted at the throat, a straight tie brings a level of professionalism and elegance to a suit, vest, or shirt and slacks. Although clip-on ties may seem like the easiest route, hand-tied straight ties are the most attractive option. Knowing how to tie a tie can open up a number of new styles and looks. With six tie knots to choose from, there's something for every neck size and shirt style. If you prefer an easy knot, we suggest starting with the full Windsor. Our how to tie a tie videos and simple instructions allow men and women to sport a polished tie in minutes. People should practice tying knots in front of a mirror for best results.

How to Tie a Full Windsor Knot:
Featuring a polished triangular shape, the Windsor knot offers a good option for job interviews, presentations and social occasions. Because of its wide appearance, this knot looks best with a spread-collar shirt. Although it may appear complicated, tying the full Windsor knot is accomplished without much difficulty.

How to Tie a Half Windsor Knot:
Understanding how to knot a tie can give you a wealth of options to choose from when getting ready. Variations only further extend the possibilities. The half Windsor knot offers a triangular and symmetrical shape for a classic presentation. Because it's smaller than the full Windsor, it works best with wider, medium-weight ties and pairs well with any dress shirt. With a few simple instructions, the half Windsor knot comes together easily.
As with the full Windsor knot, begin the process by raising the shirt collar. Drape the tie around the neck so the wide end is on the right and extends roughly 12 inches below the narrow end.

How to Tie a Four-in-Hand Knot:
The four-in-hand knot works well for wide neckties in heavy fabrics. Learn how to knot a tie in this style if you're hoping to dress up a traditional look. It looks most attractive when worn with a standard button-down dress shirt. With a few easy steps, people can tie the four-in-hand knot in a matter of minutes.

How to Tie a Trinity Knot:
As you get more comfortable with the basics of how to tie a tie, you can graduate to more sophisticated options. The Trinity knot offers a stylish look patterned after the Trinity symbol. With a more complex design than the Windsor and four-in-hand knots, tying the Trinity knot is a little more complicated, but it makes a fashion statement for formal functions.

How to Tie a Pratt Knot:
Also known as the Shelby knot, the Pratt knot offers a stylish look for any dress shirt. Because this knot is thinner than the Windsor knot, it works well when fashioned with lightweight to medium-weight ties. The Pratt knot requires just a few simple steps to master.

How to Tie a Kelvin Knot:
This uncommon knot will certainly set you apart from the crowd. Thankfully, Kelvin knots are easy to learn and create an even, polished look. Follow a few basic steps, and you'll be a Kelvin knot expert in no time.
Drape your tie around your collar with the seam out and the thick end on your left. Hang your end two or three inches lower than where you hope to complete the tie.
Cross the thick end under the thin side left to ride. You should create an X underneath your chin.Take the thick end across the front knot from right to left. Wrap around the thin end and pass back underneath the knot from left to right.Bring the thick end horizontally across the front moving from right to left. Tuck a finger under the horizontal band you create.Tuck your thick end underneath the loop around your collar.
Bring your thick end through the horizontal loop. Snug the knot down into place.
Tighten by grasping the knot with one hand and pulling on the narrow end with the other.

How to Tie an Eldredge Knot:
With its intricate design, the Eldredge knot makes a bold statement. Fair warning: learning how to knot a tie in this style can take time.