Knotting a tie: one gesture, four interpretations

At Selection, our most premium collection, the tie is seen as a stylish gesture that goes beyond mere functionality. To explore this new spring/summer drop in depth, we have created a series of four tutorials that reveal the art behind different tie knots. Each one highlights not only the technique, but also the personality of the pieces that accompany it. Because choosing the right knot is, at its core, a matter of proportion, occasion and attitude.

Simple knot: the everyday gesture

The simple knot is the starting point: easy, slightly asymmetrical and designed for everyday wear. Also known as the Four-in-Hand, it originated in 19th-century England, associated with London coachmen and clubs, and soon became an everyday standard. It adapts easily to practically any type of tie and shirt collar, though it has a special affinity with button-downs, where its casual character fits perfectly. We pair it with a navy blue tie in a silk and linen blend, lightweight and with a matte texture that adds a touch of freshness. Its three-fold construction, unlined and with hand-stitched edges, reinforces that artisanal, unpretentious feel.

It is ideal for… looks that are casual or office-appropriate, where elegance need not be overbearing.

Windsor Knot: formal balance

Wider and more symmetrical, the Windsor introduces structure and presence. It is the natural choice for more open collars, such as those on Italian shirts, and in more formal settings where a polished look is desired. That is why we have chosen this 100% silk tie woven in a reps weave, recognisable by its subtle ribbed texture. The matte brown finish adds depth and strikes a fine balance between formality and discretion, crafted with seven pleats (where the silk is folded over itself multiple times) that create a natural volume perfect for tying this knot.

It is ideal for… weddings and professional events that require precision without stiffness.

Pratt Knot: refined simplicity

The Pratt —also known as the Shelby— is a practical knot, easy to tie and particularly useful with shorter ties. Its clean, slightly more compact shape makes it a modern alternative to the more classic, voluminous knots mentioned earlier. In this case, the star of the show is a bolder tie, crafted from grenadine, an open-weave gauze-like fabric much loved for its subtle texture and lightness. The three-fold construction, unlined and with hand-sewn ends, reinforces its artisanal character and natural drape.

It is ideal for… versatile settings, somewhere between formal and relaxed.

Prince Albert Knot: distinctive character

It is less common, but when you see a tie tied in a Prince Albert knot, you won’t forget it. Although its name evokes Queen Victoria’s consort, its exact origin is less clear and likely later, yet it retains that reinterpreted classic air, with a more distinctive elongated silhouette. It works particularly well with narrow collars and slimmer ties, where its shape can be fully appreciated.For this tutorial, we have selected a forest green tie, made from pure silk with a Reps weave, whose seven-fold construction provides the body and presence needed for the knot to retain its shape precisely.

It is ideal for… more contemporary looks, where the detail makes all the difference.