The Windsor Knot
A Windsor Knot, or “Full Windsor,” is a classic tie knot—and one of the most popular. It’s fuller and more symmetrical than others, so tying the Windsor takes practice. In terms of when to wear it, this knot is worn for formal and semi-formal occasions because of its pristine, elegant appearance. Plus, it pairs best with wide spread-collar shirts, which are suited to dressier events.
1. Place the wide end on your left and the narrow end on your right.
2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
3. Pass the wide end up through the neck loop.
4. Take the wide end down and to the right.
5. Bring the wide end under and to the left.
6. Take the wide end and bring it up and through the neck loop.
7. Cross over the loop to your right to form the knot.
8. Bring it up through the neck loop from below.
9. Pull it through the loosened knot.
10. Tighten and adjust the dimple.
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How to Tie a Half Windsor Knot
The Half Windsor Knot
This particular knot is suitable for almost all occasions—which is why it’s one of the most popular. Since it is smaller in size, it can be worn with more collars—such as the button-down, forward point or spread collar. It is appropriate for work and weddings—most semi-formal occasions, in fact. Learning how to tie a Half Windsor is relatively easy, too.
1. Place the wide end on your left and the narrow end on your right.
2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
3. Pass the wide end under the narrow end.
4. Bring up and through the loop.
5. Take the wide end down and to the right.
6. Bring the wide end up to the centre and wrap around to form a knot.
7. Pass the wide end through the loop and bring it down.
8. Pull the pointed end up and then down through the knot.
9. Tighten and adjust the dimple.