How to tie a necktie

For anyone heading to work or an event who wants a clean four-in-hand knot that sits straight and holds all day.

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.

Step 01
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.
Step 02
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.
Step 03
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.

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.

Read it as an article on How To

Step 04

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.

Step 05

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.

Step 06

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.