Quick answer
To tie a four-in-hand knot, cross the wide end over the narrow end, wrap it around, pass it up through the neck loop and down through the front loop, then tighten. For a bow tie, form the bow with the front end, fold the back end over it and push it through the loop behind.
Key takeaways
- ✓The four-in-hand is the easiest, most versatile knot.
- ✓The tip should reach your belt buckle.
- ✓Add a dimple under the knot for polish.
- ✓Practise a few times before your event.
How to Tie a 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.Wrap the wide end behind the narrow end and bring it back to the front.
- 4.Pass the wide end up through the loop at your neck.
- 5.Bring it down through the knot you just formed.
- 6.Hold the narrow end and slide the knot up to your collar.
- 7.Check that the tip reaches your belt buckle and add a dimple.
How to Tie a Bow Tie
- 1.Drape the bow tie with one end slightly longer on your left.
- 2.Cross the longer end over the shorter end and pass it up through the neck loop.
- 3.Fold the shorter end into a bow shape in front.
- 4.Drop the longer end over the middle of the bow.
- 5.Fold the longer end and push it through the loop behind the bow.
- 6.Adjust both sides until the bow is even.
| Mistake | Fix |
|---|---|
| Tie too short | Start with the wide end lower |
| Knot too loose | Slide it up to the collar |
| No dimple | Pinch below the knot before tightening |
| Uneven bow | Adjust each wing until balanced |
A video tutorial is coming soon. Our ties and bow ties ($19 each) are available at the studio if you want to practise on the real thing.
Complete the Look
Ask our team to show you how a tie or bow tie sits with your suit. Suit Archive's studio is at 12 Lorong Bakar Batu #06-07, Singapore 348745, open Monday to Friday, 11am to 11pm, by appointment. Every complete 3-piece suit is $178. Book online or WhatsApp us at (65) 8979 1210.
Try it on before you buy. Book a Suit Archive fitting and walk out in a suit that fits.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest tie knot?
The four-in-hand. It is quick to tie and works with most collars.
How long should a tie be?
The tip should end around your belt buckle.
Is a bow tie harder to tie?
It takes a little practice, but the steps are simple once you learn them.
