You don't need seventeen knots. You need two, tied well: the Four-in-Hand for most days, and the Half Windsor for the days that matter. Here's how, and — just as important — which suits the tie you're wearing.
The Four-in-Hand
The everyday classic: slim, slightly asymmetric, effortlessly undone-looking in the best way. It uses the least fabric, so it's the friend of longer ties and heavier silks.
- Drape the tie with the wide end on your right, hanging about 30cm lower than the narrow end.
- Cross the wide end over the narrow end, then pass it back underneath.
- Cross it over the front once more, then bring it up through the neck loop from below.
- Pass the tip down through the front knot you've just made, and tighten by holding the knot and sliding it up while pulling the narrow end down.
Best for: 3″–3.5″ ties, spread-to-medium collars, and vintage silks with a bit of weight — which is most of what we sell.
The Half Windsor
Symmetrical, triangular, and a touch more formal — without the bulk of the full Windsor, which frankly few ties (or collars) enjoy.
- Start as before, wide end right, hanging lower — you'll need a little extra length for this one.
- Cross the wide end over, then bring it up through the neck loop and drop it down on the left.
- Pass it around the front of the knot from left to right.
- Bring it up through the neck loop once more, feed the tip down through the front band, and tighten.
Best for: weddings, interviews and photographs; 3.5″–4″ ties; wider spread collars.
The vintage wrinkle
Vintage ties are often cut slightly shorter than modern ones — the exact length is on every one of our listings — so if a tie runs under 57″, favour the Four-in-Hand. And always finish with a dimple: pinch the fabric just below the knot as you tighten. It's the difference between wearing a tie and wearing a tie.