How to Make a Necktie Knot

The four-in-hand knot is an excellent style for beginners

Neckties are a necessary part of a man's business attire. Many employers and even upscale events require the wearing of ties because they convey a successful, white collar image and are a hallmark of professional dress. The problem with neckties, like any other clothing, is that a sloppy, ill-tied necktie will spoil your professional appearance and create a bad impression with others. If you are just starting out in the professional world, the best necktie knot for you to make would be the common four-in-hand style.

Things You'll Need

• Mirror

Instructions

1. Position your tie. Stand your collar completely upright, then drape the tie around your neck at the base of the collar, with the seam facing inward. The narrow end of your tie should be on the left side when looking at the mirror, and the wide end should extend 12 inches further down than the short end.

2. Cross your tie. The broad end of your tie should be crossed in front of the narrow end, about a half inch from the top button of your shirt. Keep the two halves crossed by holding them with the thumb and index fingers of your non-dominant hand, and don't let go.

3. Prepare to create the knot. With your right hand, fold the wide end of your tie behind the narrow end so that the seam points outward. Then fold the wide end back in front so that it wraps around the narrow end, creating a loop.

4. Create the knot. Thread the wide end behind the loop and up over the "Y" where the narrow and wide end were originally crossed. Again, the seam of the wide end should now be facing outwards. Fold it down and thread into the loop. At this point you should be able to let go of the loop with your non-dominant hand and pull the wide end until the knot is properly tightened.

5. Tidy up. Pull the knot up until it is at the hem of your collar. When you turn your collar down into the proper position and button it to your shirt, the knot should be right up against the top button of your collar. Then thread the narrow end of your tie through the tag on the seam side of the wide end.

Tips & Warnings

• Ties rarely come in different sizes. Make sure the broad end of your tie reaches your belt buckle, but no further.

• Don't wear your tie too tight. Although the risk is very low, it can lead to excessive vascular constriction, which can cut off the flow of blood to the brain and can cause you to pass out.