Ties have been around for hundreds of years, stretching back to the 17th century. Croatian forces, brought in to assist France and King Louis XIII in battle, wore a piece of cloth around the top of their uniform. King Louis was fond of this style and popularized it, naming it La Cravate in honor of the Croatians.
Today, ties are a staple of the business and fashion world. Ties signal capability and confidence; they are a must-wear accessory for formal events and job interviews. Despite their importance, however, many men are unsure how to actually tie a tie. In this blog post, we’ll explain how to tie a Windsor knot.
How to Tie a Windsor Knot
A Windsor knot is triangular, symmetrical, and a true classic. In this post, we’ll look specifically at the full-Windsor knot, which has some differences from the half-Windsor. Sometimes known as the double-Windsor, it is a formal knot that is full and wide, making it appropriate with wide-spread dress shirts.
Step One
For a full-Windsor knot, you will start with the wide end of the tie on the right side. The tip of the small end will hang down slightly above your belly button. During this process, you will only move the wide end of the tie.
Step Two
Move the wide end over the small end to the left and then move it up into the neck loop from underneath.
Step Three
Next, down the wide end down to the left and then around the back of the small end to the right side.
Step Four
Things are starting to take shape now. Move the wide end up to the center, through the neck loop and down to the right.
Step Five
Next, move the wide end across the front to the left and then up into the neck loop from underneath. Bring the wide end down through this loop that has been created in the front.
Step Six
Finally, tighten the knot by pulling down the wide end until you are satisfied. Looking Sharp!
Why Is It Called a Windsor Knot?
The Windsor knot is one of the most popular ties today, indeed it has endured as a popular style through the decades. It is believed to have been named after the Duke of Windsor, previously known as King Edward VIII before he abdicated.
Many believe that it was actually invested by his father, George V. The Windsor knot is commonly used in the Armed Forces in Britain, though since his abdication some section of the army deems it inappropriate to wear. Follow these tips for casually wearing a knit tie.
For a Classic Look, Choose a Windsor Knot
The Windsor knot is a great go-to tie knot. If you only learn one way to tie a tie, then it’s recommended that you choose the Windsor knot. It is one of the most enduring tie knots and for good reason, given how it can increase your appearance in formal settings.
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