3 Basic Tie Knots for Beginners

How you knot a necktie may seem like an unnecessary detail to most but make no mistake, how you do your tie goes on to send a subliminal message to the observing eye as a focal point of your outfit. There is a lot more science that goes into which tie knot goes with what type of outfit, shirt, and collar. The right kind of tie knot brings a level of professionalism and elegance to a suit, vest, or shirt and slacks.

The foremost thing to consider before choosing the appropriate tie knot is the shirt and collar style. Few considerations like choosing a tie knot that fills up the space between your collar and isn't too big that it takes up space under the collar. It should also not be so small for extra band to be visible on the sides. For example, an Orient knot with a wide collar or a large Windsor knot with a classic collar can easily throw your whole outfit off balance. To save you these faux pas, here’s a guide to three classic can’t-go-wrong tie knots with simple instructions that you can practice and perfect in no time:

Oriental Knot

Being the easiest and smallest tie knot, The Oriental tie knot is among the most popular for its quick technique and slick look. This knot is ideal if you're using a short tie or you're a tall person. It works best with classic and medium spread collars.

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect oriental knot:

  1.  Wrap the tie around your collar with the thick end on your left, a few inches lower than your ideal length.
  2. Put the thick end under the thin one and pass it to the right side.
  3. Pass the thick end across the front through the big loop.
  4. Fold the thick end over the intersection. Wrap it around and pull it down slowly.
  5. Now, insert the thick end between the gap in the loop. Pull it through, and then insert the tip of the wide end into the top layer of the knot.
  6. Pull it through gently.
  7. Windsor Knot

Windsor knot or Full-Windsor knot is widely regarded as the perfect option to create a professional and classy look for business endeavors. Here’s how you can master it:

  1. Drape the tie around your neck with the thick end hanging twice as long as the narrow one.
  2. Cross the thick end over to the narrow end and loop it around.
  3. Pass the thick end to the back from the intersection and pull it down.

  4. Now pass it again from underneath and to the right of the narrow end with the seam facing out.
  5. Cross the thick end over through the left of the narrow part with the facing the back.
  6. Pull the thick end up through the intersection.
  7. Pass it through the loop at the front and snug it down.
  8. Slide the knot carefully up toward the collar with the other hand.

Half Windsor Knot

 A simple symmetrical knot that’s super easy to master, Half Windsor Knot’s the chic younger version of Windsor. This medium thick knot pairs with any dress shirt and is perfect for thicker ties.

Learn how to tie it with a few simple steps:

  1. Wrap the tie around your neck with the narrow end on your right side in a way that it's half in length as the thick end.
  2. Pass the thick end over the narrow end and loop it back from the other side.
  3. Bring the thick end towards your face and pass it through the gap between collar and necktie and wrap it over the narrow end.
  4. Pull the wide end up through the gap between the collar and necktie loosely to form a loop at the intersection.
  5. Pass the thick end through the loop you just created and pull it snug.
  6. Hold the knot with one hand and pull the thick end through that little knot, with the other hand until tight.

Neckties do wonders to enhance your outfit by giving you a detailed sophisticated look. There are various knots that go with different tie styles, fabrics, colors, and patterns. Explore the ANK catalog to find the perfect tie for your outfit from a range of classy ties in premium fabrics and styles, both traditional and exotic.

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