HOW-TO & PRACTICAL

How do you tie a basic necktie?

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To tie a basic necktie, drape it around your neck with the wide end on your right side hanging about 12 inches lower than the narrow end, then cross, wrap, and pull the wide end through the loops you create to form a knot at your collar.

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Most common knot styleFour-in-hand
Time to tie30 seconds to 2 minutes for beginners
Wide end starting position12 inches lower than narrow end
Final lengthTip should reach middle of belt buckle
Difficulty levelEasy to moderate

Starting Position

Begin with the tie draped around your neck with the seam facing inward. The wide end should hang on your right side, about 12 inches lower than the narrow end on your left side. Stand in front of a mirror so you can see what you are doing.

Making the Knot

Cross the wide end over the narrow end from right to left, forming an X shape. Then wrap the wide end around behind the narrow end from left to right. Bring the wide end back across the front from right to left. Pull the wide end up through the loop around your neck. Finally, pull the wide end down through the knot you created in the front.

Finishing Touches

Tighten the knot by holding the narrow end and sliding the knot up toward your collar. Adjust the knot so it is centered and sits just below your collar points. The tip of the wide end should reach your belt buckle. The seam of the wide end should face backward and not be visible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not start with the wide end too low or the tie will be too short at the end. Do not wrap the wide end too many times or the knot will be too thick. Make sure the narrow end is hidden behind the wide end in the final knot. Practice in front of a mirror until you feel comfortable with the steps.

Sources

  1. menswearguide.com (menswearguide.com)
  2. realmenrealstyle.com (realmenrealstyle.com)
  3. wikihow.com (wikihow.com)