The Tie Knot Guide: Four Knots Every Man Should Know

The Tie Knot Guide: Four Knots Every Man Should Know

Most men know one knot. Four covers every situation. Here are the four, when to use each, and the common mistakes.

1. Four-in-Hand

The simplest, smallest, most asymmetric knot. Slightly oblong shape.

• When: day-to-day office wear, narrow collars, slimmer ties, casual shirts.
• Pairs with: button-down collars, narrow spread collars.
• Avoid with: wide-spread collars and formal occasions.

2. Half Windsor

Symmetrical and triangular, medium size. The most versatile knot.

• When: standard business meetings, interviews, weddings, anything dressy that isn't black-tie.
• Pairs with: standard spread collars, most ties.
• Avoid with: very thin ties (knot looks oversized) or button-down collars.

3. Full Windsor

Largest, most symmetrical, fully triangular. Commands a wide collar.

• When: formal events, presentations, wide-spread collars.
• Pairs with: cutaway and wide-spread collars only.
• Avoid with: narrow collars (the knot will overflow).

4. Pratt (Shelby)

Symmetrical, medium-sized, a clean alternative to the Half Windsor. Less common, looks intentional.

• When: when you want a clean knot without the bulk of the Windsor.
• Pairs with: medium spread collars, slimmer ties.

The dimple

A single vertical dimple in the centre of the knot, just below the knot itself. Pinch it as you tighten. The dimple is the small detail that separates a sloppy tie from a sharp one.

The length

The tip of the tie should hit the centre of your belt buckle. Above that = too short. Below the buckle = sloppy. Practice until you hit it on the first try.

The avoid

• Pre-tied ties (visible band at the back).
• Thick wool ties with a Full Windsor (too much bulk).
• Tying a tie too tight against the collar. Leave it slightly loose so the collar can breathe.