The most versatile tie knot for any British formal event is the Four-in-Hand for its slender, asymmetrical look, while the Full Windsor remains the gold standard for wide collars and high-stakes business meetings in the City. To achieve a perfect dimple and maintain the tie’s shape, always begin with a high-quality silk tie and a well-pressed spread collar shirt.
Master the Knot: 3 Essential Ways to Tie a Tie
Whether you are heading to a wedding in the Cotswolds or a boardroom in Canary Wharf, the way you tie your tie speaks volumes about your attention to detail. At Makrom, we believe every man should master these three definitive knots.
1. The Four-in-Hand (The All-Rounder)
Best for: Narrow collars and casual-smart occasions.
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Step 1: Drape the tie around your neck. The wide end should be about 12 inches lower than the narrow end.
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Step 2: Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
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Step 3: Loop the wide end underneath the narrow end.
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Step 4: Bring the wide end over the front once more.
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Step 5: Pull the wide end up through the neck loop and tuck it down through the front loop. Tighten gently.
2. The Full Windsor (The Power Knot)
Best for: Wide spread collars and formal weddings.
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Step 1: Start with the wide end on your right.
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Step 2: Cross wide over narrow, and pass it up through the neck loop.
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Step 3: Bring it down, then under the narrow end to the other side.
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Step 4: Pass it up through the neck loop again to create a symmetrical base.
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Step 5: Wrap across the front and pull through the loop to finish.
3. The Half Windsor (The Versatile Middle Ground)
Best for: Medium-width collars and daily office wear.
This knot provides a clean, triangular shape that isn't as bulky as the Full Windsor, making it ideal for our classic fit shirts.
Comparison: Which Knot Should You Choose?
| Knot Type | Difficulty | Symmetry | Best Collar Match |
| Four-in-Hand | Easy | Asymmetrical | Narrow / Button-down |
| Half Windsor | Medium | Symmetrical | Medium Spread |
| Full Windsor | Advanced | Highly Symmetrical | Wide Spread / Italian |
Expert Maintenance: Avoiding the Crease
A common mistake is leaving your tie knotted after the event. This ruins the inner lining. To keep your accessories in top condition:
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Always untie your tie in the reverse order you tied it.
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Store it flat or rolled. If you are travelling, follow our expert advice on how to fold a shirt and place your rolled ties in the collar to maintain the shirt’s structure.