Tying a tie and a bow tie: The ultimate guide for your wedding (step-by-step)

Tying a tie or bow tie to perfection is one of the most important details for a well-dressed groom or guest. Standing in front of the mirror on the morning of the wedding and struggling with the knot is a classic scenario – but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Style expert Andreas Weinås teaches you how to master both the tie knot and the hand-tied bow tie, so you can focus on the celebrations rather than the mirror.

1. Tying a tie with Andreas Weinås’s favourite: the Four-in-hand

Many people think you need to know ten different knots, but the truth is you only need one: the Four-in-hand. It’s a neat, slightly asymmetrical knot that gives a sophisticated yet natural look.

• Suitable for: All types of shirt collars.
• Tip: Tighten the knot properly so that it sits small and snug against the collar. There shouldn’t be a gap between the knot and the button.

Andreas expands on his thoughts about why the simplicity of a Four-in-hand trumps more complicated knots in the Bröllopsguiden podcast. Listen to the segment on tie knots right here

2. The elegant bow tie – tie it yourself!

Does the invitation say ‘Tuxedo’? Then a bow tie is the way to go. But skip the pre-tied version with an elastic band.
“The whole charm of a hand-tied bow tie is that it’s imperfect. You can tell you’ve done it yourself, and that adds a personal touch,“ says Andreas Weinås on the Bröllopsguiden podcast.
(Here’s where we’ll include the instructional images: Step-by-step guide to tying a bow tie)

3. Common mistakes when tying a tie or bow tie

Coordination: Never match your tie exactly to the handkerchief in your breast pocket. They should complement each other, not look like a set from a gift box.

Length: The tie should end right at or in the middle of your belt buckle. Not above it, and definitely not hanging down over your fly.

The Dimple: Try to create a small indentation just below the knot. This gives the tie life and volume.

The whole charm of a hand-tied bow tie is that it’s imperfect. You can tell you’ve done it yourself, and that gives it a personal touch

Would you like to hear more from Andreas? Listen to our podcast episode ‘Men’s Style for the Wedding – Andreas Weinås’s Best Tips‘.