4 Different Tie Knots For Different Occasions

Once you’ve purchased your silk knitted ties online, it’s time to start thinking about how you want to tie them - and this is largely dependent on both personal preference and the occasion you’re getting dressed up for. But which knot to tie? Here’s a quick guide to some of the different tie knots you could consider wearing.

The full Windsor

Also known as the Double Windsor, this particular knot is the most formal of them all and takes its name from King Edward VIII (the Duke of Windsor). Apparently, he preferred wider knots over the four in hand, which was a popular way to knot a tie at the time.

It’s a firmer knot to others you could wear, which means it will stay in place no matter what you get up to - and it’s comfortable to wear as well.

The four in hand

If you know your tie skills aren’t quite on point just yet, the four in hand is one of the simpler styles to wear so perhaps a good place to begin. You’ll also likely hear it referred to as the schoolboy or simple knot, perhaps for that reason. It’s a good choice for less formal occasions, featuring an asymmetrical knot that works well with wider ties and heavier fabrics.

The Pratt knot

If you need a longer length in your tie, then the Pratt knot would be a good choice, perfect for any taller people out there. The Pratt looks especially good with a skinny tie, so bear this in mind as well.

The half Windsor

If you need an in-between style of knot, one that isn’t overly formal but one that avoids being too casual, the half Windsor is the knot for you. It’s smaller than the full Windsor (perhaps unsurprisingly, given its name) and works well with lightweight or medium-weight materials.

3 quick tie tips

Bear the length of your tie in mind and try and fix it so that it sits on the beltline, not above or below it. In terms of width, you’ll find that ties come in a variety of different sizes so, again, it’s a matter of personal preference but generally try and match the width of your tie to that of the lapels on your jacket for a stylish and effortless look.

Something else to remember is that a tie is often the very first aspect of your appearance that people will notice, so choose your neckwear wisely! Try and avoid novelty ties unless the occasion truly demands it and, although you will want your tie to look good on its own, it should complement the rest of your outfit and not contrast or clash with it.

And, finally, don’t forget to dimple your tie as a lovely finishing touch. When you’ve finished tying it, simply press your thumb against your finger below the knot to form a crease in the fabric. Now you’re ready to stand out from the crowd!