Money & Career

How to Tie a Tie (Easy Step-by-Step)

The world's most searched how-to: the simple four-in-hand knot for interviews, weddings and holiday parties.

Editorial TeamNovember 6, 20261 min read

"How to tie a tie" is one of the most searched how-to questions in the world. The four-in-hand knot is the easiest place to start and works for almost any occasion.

The four-in-hand knot

  1. Drape the tie around your neck with the wide end on your right, hanging about 30 cm lower than the narrow end.
  2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.
  3. Bring the wide end under the narrow end.
  4. Cross it over the front again.
  5. Bring the wide end up through the loop around your neck from underneath.
  6. Pass it down through the front knot.
  7. Hold the narrow end and slide the knot up to tighten.
Right lengthThe tip of the tie should just touch the top of your belt buckle. Adjust the starting length if it's too long or short.

Finishing touches

  • Create a small dimple just under the knot by pinching the fabric as you tighten.
  • Make sure the collar covers the tie around your neck.
  • Tuck the narrow end through the loop on the back.

Practice

It may take a few tries. Practise in front of a mirror before your interview or event.

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