Last Updated on September 21, 2023
Wondering how to tie a tie? Here, I break it down for you in a few simple steps. If you’ve made it to adulthood without knowing how to put on a tie, you’re not alone. I’ve only just learnt how to do it myself, and while it took me a while to get to grips with, I’m now well-versed in how to tie a tie. Whether you’re learning to do it for a loved one or have decided to get to grips with it for your own benefit, it’s a must to know how to do different knots, including the classic Windsor and double Windsor.
Ties are one of AW23’s biggest trends, so this one isn’t just for men. The trend has been updated since the Y2K era, when Avril Lavigne, Miley Cyrus and Taylor Momsen wore theirs to complement their rock chick looks. Today’s ties are a little more elevated and are styled with tailored pieces rather than jeans, as seen at Chanel, Valentino, Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Carolina Herrera and David Koma’s AW23 fashion shows.
In short, it’s never been more important to know how to tie a tie. So let’s get into it! Next, read 5 Foolproof Ways to Wear Cargo Pants, 6 Tricks That Make Walking in Heels a Doddle and How to Stretch Out Jeans.
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Which necktie knots you should wear in 2023
Men have been sporting ties for ages, but in modern times, they are not just part of a suit or formal look; others also wear them casually. In 2023, there are popular necktie knots seen in most people. With a mix of old and new, there are two on-trend knots for neckties.
The most popular and probably the most classic is the Windsor knot, or, as some may call it, full Windsor. It has a triangular knot, with the wide end part of the tie draped in front of the narrow end. The full Windsor is often used by men for formal occasions.
Another is the Pratt knot or Shelby knot, which is best in slightly wider neckties with light or medium-weight fabric. Although it is similar to a Windsor knot, don’t get confused. The Shelby knot creates a more discreet and smaller triangle.
How to tie a tie
As mentioned, the Full Windsor is a great option for formal occasions and works best with a button-down shirt with wider collar points. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving the look.
Step 1
Drape the tie around the collar with the wide end on the right. Make sure to extend the wide end around 12 inches below the narrow end.
Step 2
Cross the wide part horizontally over the slim end to create an X-shape.
Step 3
Pull the wide end up through the loop around the neck, facing downward behind the X shape. The trick here is to secure X in place using one finger to hold it in.
Step 4
Pull the wide part all the way down.
Step 5
Cross the wide part around over the knot and pass it horizontally from right to left.
Step 6
Flip the wide end tip upward and pass it through the loop at the front.
Step 7
On the other side, loop the wide tip over the top of the loop around your collar and pull it all the way down. It should emerge on the left of the thin end.
Step 8
Make sure that it forms a horizontal band in front by tugging the wide end from left to right.
Step 9
Bring the wide part underneath the loop one more time, around the collar, with the tip aiming upward.
Step 10
Taking the wide part, pull it all the way down and smooth out creases along the way as it forms a knot.
