WHAT KNOT SHOULD I USE?

The Four in Hand Knot

The Four in Hand Knot is the most common knot (and therein lies its advantage and disadvantage). It is easy to tie and is well suited for someone with a short neck. However it is slightly asymmetrical. Those less charitable, and more demanding, consider it to be lopsided.

Nonetheless you simply can't go wrong with the Four-in-Hand Knot. This knot is considered to be acceptable with every type of collar as is the Double Knot and the Half-Windsor. The Windsor Knot should only be used if you are wearing a spread collar.

The Pratt (Shelby) Knot.

Another knot with which you cannot go wrong is the Pratt (or Shelby) knot. A nice alternative to the Four in Hand knot, it can go with any collar style.

The Pratt (Shelby) knot was invented by Jerry Pratt who used to work for the United States Chamber of Commerce, It is sometimes referred to as the Shelby knot. Don Shelby featured it on TV and received all the accolades instead of its true inventor. To be fair to Don Shelby, it was the New York City fashionistas, rather than Shelby himself who mis-named it.

The Windsor Knot.

The Full Windsor (or Double Windsor) is the dressiest knot. A wide triangular knot it is ideal for wide collar openings and extra-long neckties. It may, however, be inappropriate on a shirt with a narrow collar opening as it will look too crowded.

If you like the look of a windsor the Half Windsor is appropriate with all collars.

Read about the development of ties