Are you perplexed by the infamous Windsor Knot? See our knotting diagram below for detailed instructions to help you master the popular Windsor necktie. We invite you to print this page for later use, as the photos are represented in reverse for mirror viewing.

The method...

When you tie this knot this way it goes on and off easy - no inner knot remains when you loosen this knot by carefully pulling the knot down the narrow tie length. Step # 7 & 8 are going the opposite direction from how the Duke of Windsor demonstrated it in 1936. That reverse of direction makes the difference. Hoax, or just a way to complicate the steps so not every man could look as handsome as the "Blue Bloods" the awkward necktie knot is easily tied now if you have our diagram.

The wide blade of the tie does all of the work. Start by turning your collar up and drape the tie over your neck with the wide tie blade near your knee. (this will calibrate the length of the tie so the wide blade covers your waste band when you are finished). The tie's slip stitching is against your chest with the front or face of the tie showing. You may need to practice several times so you are starting at the right point. Carefully fold the tie without twisting and after the final step just draw the knot up to your collar while holding the narrow blade of the tie. This diagram is reversed so you can tape it to a mirror and follow it step by step. In no time at all you will master this refined gentlemen's necktie knot and have a greater respect for the way you dress.

A bit of history...

Though the Duke of Windsor is credited for this stylish necktie knot, the "Windsor Knot" was allegedly named after the Duke without his consent. Folklore has it that his father King George V passed the knot down to him along with the crown jewels, thus associating the Duke of Windsor with the tying method from that time forward.

Later, in 1936, Edward the VIII abdicated his throne as King of Britain so that he could marry Wallis Warfield Simpson, an American divorcee. As a result, his brother took the throne and the title of Duke of Windsor was granted to Edward. The dashing gentleman captivated the world with his tale of sacrificing the throne for love. Throughout his time in the spotlight, Edward the VIII sported the symmetrical necktie knot with which American journalists and the general public ultimately associated him as well.