How to Tie a VIP TIE

1- The Windsor Knot Tying Instructions

Although the Duke of Windsor never specifically used the Windsor knot, he did favor a wide triangular knot. In actuality, the Duke achieved his trendsetting look by tying a Four-in-Hand with specially made wide and extra thick ties. The Windsor knot was invented by the public as a way to imitate the Duke's knot style. There are several derivatives of the Windsor that are all referred to by the same name. The Windsor delivers a symmetrical and solid triangular knot that works best with a spread collar. This knot is also mistakenly referred to as the “Double Windsor” knot.

1. Start with the wide end of the tie on the right and the small end on the left. The tip of the small end should rest slightly above your belly-button (this will vary depending on your height and the length & thickness of your tie). Only move the active (wide) end.

2. Wide end over the small end to the left.

3. Up into the neck loop from underneath.

4. Down to the left.

5. Around the back of the small end to the right.

6. Up to the center, towards neck loop.

7. Through the neck loop and down to the right.

8. Across the front to the left.

9. Up into the neck loop from underneath.

10. Down through the loop you've just created in the front.

11. Tighten the knot by pulling down on the wide end. Slide the knot up & adjust.

2- The Half Windsor Knot Tying Instructions

The Half Windsor knot is an extremely versatile knot. Unlike what the name suggests, the Half Windsor knot is actually closer to three-quarters the size of the Windsor knot. The Half Windsor is medium in size, nearly symmetrical and, when tied correctly, it produces a deep and substantial dimple. Best used with neckties of a medium to light thickness.

1. Start with the wide end of the tie on the right and the small end on the left. The tip of the small end should rest slightly above your belly-button (this will vary depending on your height and the length & thickness of your tie). Only move the active (wide) end.

2. Wide end over the small end to the left.

3. Under the small end and to the right.

4. Up to the center, towards neck loop.

5. Through the neck loop and to the left.

6. Across the front, over to the right.

7. Up into the neck loop from underneath.

8. Down through the loop you've just created in the front.

9. Tighten the knot by pulling down on the wide end. Slide the knot up & adjust.

3- The Four-in-Hand Knot Tying Instructions

Named after a 19th Century Gentleman's Club of the same name, the Four-in-Hand is the reigning champion of necktie knots. Its popularity stems from its simplicity and versatility. It is easy to tie, slender, tapered, mildly asymmetrical and self-releasing. If you only learn one knot, make it the Four-in-Hand.

1. Start with the wide end of the tie on the right and the small end on the left. Begin with the small end slightly above your belly-button (will vary depending on your height and the length & thickness of your tie). Only move the active (wide) end.

2. Wide end over the small end to the left

3. Under the small end and to the right

4. Across the front and to the left

5. Up into the neck loop from underneath

6. Down through the loop you've just made in the front

7. Tighten the knot by pulling down on the wide end. Slide the knot up & adjust.