How to Tie a Tie Half Windsor

The half Windsor knot makes for a nice, wide, straight knot that is an attractive look for any occasion. It's a little more complex than the typical four-in-hand, but allows for a straighter knot that is fairly easy to accomplish. With one less loop than the full Windsor, it also takes less fabric to achieve. Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to tie a tie half Windsor style.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Pull shirt collar up to get it out of the way. Drape tie around neck, with the smaller end of the tie hanging level with the bottom of the shirt pocket.

2. 
    

   Cross the large end of the tie over the small end.

3. 
    

   Now slip the large end of the tie underneath the small end. (As shown in the photo, you should be looking at the underside of the large part of the tie.)

4. 
    

   Bring the tie back up toward the collar, slipping the large end through the loop around the collar. You can see in the photo that the tie will slide under the right side of that loop.

5. 
    

   Twist the tie so the underside shows again. You can see the knot forming here.

6. 
    

   Flip the long end of the tie across the knot.

7. 
    

   Wrap around the knot and slip the end through the loop around the collar again. Pull straight up the middle.

8. 
    

   Now slide the end through the top loop of the knot you've just made. Pull down straight.

9. 
    

   Insert finger though the loop underneath to keep the knot even as you tighten.

10. 
     

    Adjust knot so it sits snugly against the top button of the collar. (Holding the knot gently with one hand, while tugging on the short end of the tie with the other, can help slide the knot closer to the collar.) Fold collar down and your tie with half Windsor knot is complete.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep practicing to get the knot just the way you want it. The length of the tie, where you make the initial loops, and how much you adjust the tie can affect the final turnout. The more you practice, the more you'll learn the small details that will help you achieve a neat and attractive half Windsor knot.

[moneydoc]

on 2/9/2009 These directions with illustrations are superior to most other on the web showing half windsor, great advice on a great knot.

[ValerieDavid]

on 6/11/2008 Thank you, DFA. I know just reading directions never helps me--I need pictures! So I was hoping the shots here would help others like they help me. :)

[ValerieDavid]

on 6/11/2008 Thank you, DFA. I know just reading directions never helps me--I need pictures! So I was hoping the shots here would help others like they help me. :)

[DeathFromAbove]

on 6/8/2008 I like the pictures, nice touch. This is good for people who've never had to tie a tie before, such as myself.