The History of Windsor Knots

Like a woman's shoe tells a lot about her, a tie tells a lot about a man's personality. Not only would a tie brighten up your outfit, but it would also change the perception people have of you.

There are different ways to knot a tie, yet the Windsor knot appears to be a very famous method used. It is not only popular, it's been around for almost a century. What then, makes the Windsor knot so special? We'll discuss what exactly is the Windsor knot, it's history, why you should wear one, and how to knot a Windsor knot.

What is a Windsor knot?

Like other numerous knots, a Windsor knot has a triangular shape. The only distinguishing factor is that it is wider than the conventional knots. It is known for its intricate symmetrical design and it is more balanced than the regular four-in-hand knot. The Windsor knot is designed to display your tie's unique pattern. The Windsor knot is a very popular choice in the workplace because of its bold, yet relaxing fit. The width of the Windsor knot makes it suited to be paired with a widespread or cutaway collar.

Out of the so many knotting techniques in the world, the Windsor knot is the only knot approved by the Royal Air Force and the Royal Air Force Cadets in the UK.

History of Windsor knot

The Windsor knot was named after King Edward VIII before he abdicated the throne. He later became known as the 'Duke of Windsor'. The Duke was considered one of the godfathers of fashion and was very inclined to textures and patterns. In fact, he referred to his trending styles as “dress soft” or what we describe today as 'business casual.'

The Windsor knot became popular after the Duke visited America. Unlike the conventional way of knotting ties, the Duke was always spotted on a wide, triangular knot. Not only was the look considered relaxing and casual, but it was also so influential that other aristocrats adopted this style.

Shortly after though, his style became popular, gaining the public's attention and finding its way into the US fashion in the 1930s.

Ironically though, the Duke of Windsor never spotted the Windsor knot. The Windsor knot was made to copy the Duke's unique knotting pattern. He achieved his wide, triangular look by using the regular 'four-in-hand knot' with a thicker stitch. This look, however, was adapted to become a necktie of its own using normal thickness cloth, or what we know as more conventional ties.

Is there a difference between a Windsor knot and a Half-Windsor knot?

A Windsor knot, also known as full Windsor is different from a Half-Windsor knot. While the latter is made for tall, sleek men with a sleeker fabric, a Windsor knot is used for larger men with rounder or more salient square faces, made with thick ties. A Windsor knot is especially ideal for a cutaway collar.

Why wear a Windsor knot?

The Windsor knot is easily one of the most famous preferences in the world of ties. Its comfortable and well-balanced look makes it adequate for professional use. The Windsor knot is ideal for most men and because of its wide knots, complements those with rounder and more prominent square face. Since it helps distracts attention from the wearer's face, it is suitable for guys with beards, helping to even out the weight and look of their facial hair with the rest of their clothing.

The Windsor knot has the ability to turn a simple, regular color scheme into something alluring and sophisticated, creating a classic look for men to gain confidence in any situation. As an added benefit, it helps keep the throat warm during very cold weather.

Prepping for a classic look

The Windsor knot conveys both a sophisticated look and bold confidence. For a classic look, choose a tie that's at least one and a half inches longer than a conventional tie. Always choose a tie you love as this is the first thing people would notice. Then pair the tie with a dress shirt with a widespread collar. Although the Windsor knot is usually associated with the 'dimple' in the tie, you can go for a more traditional look by wearing the knot flat.

Don't know how to tie the famous Windsor knot? No issue. Although it takes a great deal of time and patience to learn, the visual appeal and sophisticated style makes learning the Windsor knot worth it.

How do you tie a Windsor knot?

1. Start by wrapping the tie over your neck. Make sure the wider end is on the right and the narrow end of the tie on the left.

2. Next, cross the wider end of the tie over the narrow end of the tie and bring it inwards and up, so it passes the intersection and under the neck. This forms the base of the knot.

3. Bring the wide end to the right.

4. Bring the wide end inward and then left, so that it passes under the intersection to the left.

5. From the front, bring the wider end towards the center, to the neck loop.

6. Afterward, take the wider end inward and down, so it passes through the intersection to the right.

7. Then, bring the wider end of the tie over the narrow end of the tie, to the left.

8. Next, bring the wider end of the tie into the loop from under once again.

9. Then, tuck in and pull the wider end of the tie through the intersection you made.

10. Finally, straighten out the tie by pulling the wider end of the tie downwards, then pass the knot up.

11. Adjust the knot until you get a comfortable even triangle.

Remember, it takes a whole lot of practice to learn to tie a Windsor knot. When putting on the Windsor knot, ensure that the top sits evenly at the center of the collar bone. When tied properly, it would look symmetrical and wouldn't have a choking effect on the wearer. A vintage messenger bag goes well with the outfit.

When looking for a tie, remember that you have an array of options to choose from so don't limit yourself to just a particular style or texture. Choose what you like. And most importantly, always choose the right shirt for your body.

Express your class, confidence, and style with the Windsor sense of boldness.