Can you Tie a Tie?

Formal dresses are on their way out and a casual look is not frowned upon even at prestigious occasions now. But once in a while you might just happen to receive an embossed invitation card with the words ‘black tie’ event written on it. So what do you do now? Yes, you  have to learn how to knot a tie. Ties are not passé yet. You can also be a working professional who suddenly finds himself having to wear a tie now that he has been promoted. You may also feel the need for a tie while going for your first interview after graduating from college. You can always go in for a clipped variety if you are in a hurry. But wearing the real thing will set you  apart in a class of its own.  Let’s have a look at the tie knots currently in vogue.

Windsor Knot- This particular knot is thick with a wide, triangular edge. It looks formal and wearing this knot may just help to boost up your confidence level by several notches. The Windsor knot is normally seen during official presentations, formal job interviews or courtroom appearances. It is quite easy to tie the knot and looks best with spread out shirt collars. While it looks just fine on almost everyone, men with long necks look particularly striking in it.

Half Windsor Knot- This is a modification of the Windsor knot and is perfectly symmetrical in appearance. The even triangular shape helps to emphasize any dress shirt. Wide ties made from light to medium light fabrics are specially suited for this knot.

Four in Hand Knot- This knot is much narrower and looks slightly asymmetrical. It goes well with buttoned down versions of the dress shirt and looks elegant on wide neckties made up of heavy woolen or other fabrics.

Pratt Knot- This is also known as Shelby knot and looks neat. It is wider than a Four in Hand Knot but just a trifle narrower than the Windsor knot.