It may seem like a grueling job from the get-go, but tying a tie is not a difficult task. Like with any activity, practice makes perfect, and the more knots you tie, the easier it will become. Beginners need not get discourage, because soon you too will be a master in the art of making silk necktie knots. Here is a step by step recipe for creating a dazzling tie:· Begin with the wide end of the tie hanging about 12 inches lower than the narrow end. This may vary with height, but a good rule of thumb is to have the narrow end land between the second and third buttons of your shirt.· Cross the wide end over the narrow end, and then bring the wide end back under the narrow end.· Continue by again wrapping the wide end over the narrow end.· Bring the wide end up through the loop created around your neck.· Making sure you have a loose grasp on the knot, bring the wide end back down through the front loop on the knot.· Tighten the tie by grabbing hold of the narrow end and pulling up on the knot.This is known as the Four In Hand Knot. This asymmetrical knot is good for any button down shirt. For dress shirts, use the Half Windsor Knot. The first two steps will be the same, but the process is slightly different thereafter:· Bring the wide end up and pull it through the loop to the right at the collar.· Move the wide over the narrow end, making sure to go from right to left.From here, the process matches that of the Four In Hand Knot. Bring the wide end up through the loop, place it through the front of the knot, and tighten.
From business casual to black tie affairs, a well-made silk necktie knot will complement any button down shirt or suit. It will undoubtedly be hard the first time you stand in front of a mirror and try and make a tie, but like riding a bike, it will soon become second nature.
Written by Derek Schimmel, a freelance writer.
