How to tie a necktie
By How To (/journals/how-to)
Every move keeps the wide end in control so the knot forms tight and centered. You'll need: a standard necktie and a collared shirt buttoned to the top.
1: DRAPE the tie around your neck with the wide end hanging 12 inches below the narrow end on your right side.
Button the collar first. You know the length is right when the wide tip reaches your belt line after the knot is finished. If the wide end starts shorter than 12 inches, flip the ends and start over.
2: CROSS the wide end over the narrow end at collarbone height to form an X.
Keep the crossing point two fingers below your Adam's apple. The narrow end stays still against your chest. Check that the wide end now hangs on your left.
3: WRAP the wide end behind the narrow end and back to the right side once.
Pull it snug but leave a finger-width gap at the neck. You feel the start of the knot when the fabric resists slightly. If it feels loose, wrap again with firmer tension.
4: LIFT the wide end straight up through the neck loop from underneath.
Hold the forming knot with your left hand. The wide end should now point at the ceiling. Confirm it passed fully through before letting go.
5: THREAD the wide end down through the front horizontal loop you just made.
Guide the tip through the pocket created by the wrap. Pull it down six inches. The knot locks when the wide end slides free and hangs centered.
6: SLIDE the knot up to your collar by pulling the wide end and pinching the knot.
Use your index finger and thumb to keep the knot neat while you pull. Stop when the top of the knot sits flush under the collar points. If it rides too high, ease it down half an inch.
The most common mistake
Starting with the wide end too short leaves the finished tip above the belt. Lengthen the wide end to 12 inches below the narrow before you cross.
Pro tip
Dimple the tie by pinching just below the knot with your thumb while you tighten for a sharp crease.
Say it every time
Drape twelve, cross, wrap once, lift, thread, slide flush.