So you need to knot up. Don't worry, you've come to the right place. Right here you'll find clear illustrations and simple directions that make learning how to tie any kind of tie knot easy. Choose from popular knots like the Windsor, the four in hand, or the simple knot—even the self-tied bow tie.

Just take a look below and start practicing in front of the mirror.


How to Tie a Full Windsor
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A classic knot, and one of the most common, this knot is a favorite of style icons like Sean Connery's James Bond and Tom Ford. Wear it with a more traditionally tailored, non-skinny suit and tie combo. It's also a good knot to use with a spread collar.


How to Tie a Half Windsor
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Unless you are an English soccer player, this is a knot generally worn in a more formal setting. Something that would require a morning suit and a butterfly collar..


How to Tie a Four In Hand
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Slender without being skinny, the four in hand is the knot most commonly used. It's also quite a bit simpler than the Windsor knots and will look good in basically every non-tuxedo situation.


How to Tie a Simple Knot
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The simple knot is exactly that: simple. It's the way to go if you want a really small knot, sort of a 1940s style. And it's also the knot to use with a skinny tie. Just keep in mind, if you wear a skinny tie, make sure to wear a skinny suit. You shouldn't have a lapel width thicker than two inches at the absolute most.


How to Tie a Bow Tie
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Bow ties are actually not that hard to tie, and self-tied look a hell of a lot better than pre-tied. Especially if you're wearing it with a tux. Put it this way: James Bond wouldn't go near a pre-tied bow tie, and who in this world looks better in a tux?


Illustrations by Zander Abranowicz