

The four-in-hand is named for the coach and four, either because reins were held in a manner which the necktie seemed to parrot, or because the coachmen purportedly tied their own cravats in this manner to keep them from flying off while driving. It is the perfect knot because it is small and precise, and it is appropriate with British and American natural shoulder dress in this country. The Windsor knot, which was purportedly introduced by the Duke of Windsor in the 1930s, was intended to go with the cutaway, a wide Windsor collar, and it is too bulky to fit well in the collars of most shirts today. The half-Windsor is appropriate when a larger knot is desired. To tie a knot perfectly, be sure to pull up the knot smartly so as to create a dimple in the center of the tie directly below the knot. A slight twist upward will set the knot in place to display the tie to its best advantage. If it lies straight upon the shirt, it will have no life to it and light will not reflect off the silk to show the tie at its best.