Wear a Four-In-Hand Knot for Everyday wear, Business casual, Weddings. It's versatile and classic- the go-to first knot to learn. The asymmetry is part of the charm. The General Knot neckties are perfect for this knot- not too wide and not too narrow. A perfect balance.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Start with the wide end on the right (image above is a mirror view), hanging lower than the narrow end.

2. Cross the wide end over the narrow end.

3. Bring the wide end behind the narrow end across to the right.

4. Bring the wide end across the front to the left.

5. Bring the wide end up through the neck loop from underneath.

6. Pass the wide end down through the front loop, then tighten and slide the knot up.

Tips for a clean knot

A few small details make all the difference. The dimple - pinch the knot just below the loop as you tighten - is the one to get right; that small fold under the knot is what separates "tied a tie" from "wears a tie." Slide the knot up firmly to the collar, but not so tight that it pinches.

Fabric matters too. Cotton gives a soft knot. Linen wears a touch looser, which is part of its appeal. Heavier fabrics like wool build a slightly larger knot — fitting for fall and winter.

A four-in-hand suits a button-down or semi-spread collar. With a narrow spread, the knot's asymmetry reads as intentional. With wider spreads, you'll want a fuller knot like a half-Windsor.

Pair it with the right tie

The four-in-hand works best with ties of narrow to medium width-  General Knot's standard width of 2 7/8" hits that sweet spot. Narrower looks anemic; wider overpowers a button-down collar.

Every General Knot necktie is designed in Bedford, NY., and hand-made in our local US factory from selected unique specialty and contemporary textiles — printed cottons, fine silk/cotton blends, sun-washed chambrays, hand-loomed linens. Pick one that matches the look you're tying it for.

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