How to tie a tie

Of all the different tie knots out there, there are only two you need to know to cover all occasions: the four-in-hand and the half-windsor.

The four-in-hand is the easiest to pull off, particularly when you're in a hurry. It's also the narrowest knot, so it works well with pointed collars or more casual looks.

The half-windsor is a wider, more substantial knot, making it ideal for shirts with wider collars. It is also more symmetrical and has more volume, which works well for smart occasions.

Master each of these tie knots with the step-by-step instructions below and complete any look in style.
Learn about the four-in-hand knot Learn about the half-windsor knot
How to tie a tie: Man adjusting his tie knot How to tie a tie: Man adjusting his tie knot

How to tie a four-in-hand knot

Adjust the tie around your neck so that the wider end sits on your right, and lower than the narrower end. Take the wide end in front of the narrow one, then pull it around the back before crossing it in front again. Then pull this end up around the back of the knot, and tuck it through the loop you have created at the front. Adjust as necessary.
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Step 7
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Step 8

How to tie a Half-Windsor knot

Adjust the tie around your neck so that the wider end sits on your right, and significantly lower than the narrower end. Pass the wide blade over the front of the shorter one, then around the back of it. Pull it up over the front of the loop you have created, then tuck it back down behind the loop. Take it to the left side, then pass it back over the front of your knot, before tucking it up under the loop again. Finally bring it down the front, passing it through the loop you just created. Adjust as necessary.
half-windsor knot: step 1 half-windsor knot: step 1
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