1. Show Your Dimples
A ‘dimple’ or small fold beneath the knot of a tie is essential. Adding it provides additional visual interest that transforms the tie and communicates the wearer's style chops. Those with dimples send a clear message: style and polish are never too much to ask for the wearer.
2. Make the Knot Tight
We often see men with knots that were tied loosely. It typically lends itself to a dimple-less over-sized knot that doesn't look like the intended shape.
3. Keep It Simple
Knots like the Eldredge are too much and risk upstaging you. Ties should only complement the wearer. Elaborate knots are flashy, flamboyant, and the polar opposite of understated style. A "less is more approach" always wins the day. For this reason, we almost always use the Four-In-Hand knot because of its simplicity and asymmetry.
4. Give Your Knot Some Room
Always consider collar spacing and knot proportions. Leave some space between your collar tips and the edge of your knot. If the Four-In-Hand isn’t quite suitable, try out the Prince Albert (tight, slender shape), Kelvin (full, symmetrical), Pratt (wider for spread collars), or Half-Windsor (the widest you should consider). Part of mastering timeless style is knowing how to balance proportions.
5. Hit The Belt
Visually speaking, the best measure for where your tie should end is the belt buckle: the tip of your necktie should be in or around the centre of your belt (or where your belt would be), a length that will balance your frame.