The Half Windsor knot is a versatile knot that will work for any formal or professional occasion. It’s considered one of the most popular neck ties in use. The Half Windsor is medium in size, nearly symmetrical and works best with a medium spread collar. It’s also best used with a necktie that has a medium to light thickness. Despite its name the Half Windsor knot is not half the size of the size of the Full Windsor but rather 75% of the size. It’s a better choice for taller men as it uses less of the necktie then the Full Windsor. And of course, you can also learn how to tie a bow tie for someone else here.

This classic knot was created to simplify the steps of the Full Windsor knot. It became popular in the 1950’s amongst men in business. Men felt powerful wearing this clean knot.

Follow these step by step instructions to get the perfect Half Windsor knot:

1. Drape the tie over your neck and adjust it until the wide end is longer than the narrow end.

2. Cross the wide end of the tie over the narrow end

3. Bring the wide end around and behind the narrow end.

4. Take the wide end over and through the opening near your neck.

5. Wrap the wide end across the front of the thin end.

6. Pull the wide end under and through the neck opening.

7. Pull the wide end of the knot through the loop formed in the front.

8. Finally, tighten the knot by pulling on the wide end while holding the knot until you’re satisfied with the look.

Your tie should rest between the top and middle of your belt line. If your tie comes up too short, then you will need to start over making the narrow end higher. Same goes if its to long, start over making the narrow end lower.