How to tie a Windsor Knot

Difficulty
Recommended collar: classic, wide-spaced.
Recommended tie: standard, lightweight fabrics.
Also known as: Full Windsor, Double Windsor

About Windsor knot

The Windsor knot, also sometimes referred to as a Full Windsor or erroneously as a Double Windsor to distinguish it from the half-Windsor, is a method of tying a necktie around one's neck and collar. The Windsor knot, compared to other methods, produces a wide symmetrical triangular knot. The knot is often thought to be named after the Duke of Windsor (King Edward VIII before his abdication). It is, however, named after his grandfather Edward VII.

The Windsor knot is worn on more formal occasions, and it is especially suited for a spread or cutaway collar that can properly accommodate a larger knot. For correct wear the tie used for a windsor knot should be about 40 cm longer than a conventional tie. The Windsor knot is the only tie knot that is to be used by all personnel in the Royal Air Force in the UK when wearing their black tie while in uniform.

When tied correctly the knot is tight and does not slip away from the collar during wear. It is very comfortable to wear, as the knot itself will hold the tie firmly in place while still keeping space between the collar and neck.
The knot is symmetrical, well balanced, and self-releasing. It is a large knot, which amply displays the fabric and design of the tie when wearing a closed jacket or coat, and helps keep the throat area warm during the colder winter months.
A large knot can distract attention away from the wearer's face; therefore, a Windsor best compliments a strong square or round face, or those sporting facial hair.

Instructions Windsor knot viewed from a mirror

Start with the wide end of the tie on your right. Extend it about 12"/30cm below the narrow end.

Cross the wide end over the narrow, and bring it up through the loop.

Bring the wide end down, around behind the narrow, and up on you right.

Push this end down through the loop and pull it tight.

Turn the wide end and pass it across the narrow.

Pull the wide end up through the loop.

Slip the wide end through the knot in the front. Tighten and draw up to the collar.