How to Tie a Prince Albert Knot (a.k.a., Double Four in Hand)

Want to look elegant and understated while still exuding confidence and style? You can do just that by learning how to tie the Prince Albert knot!

The Prince Albert knot, also known as the Double Four in Hand, is a sophisticated knot that’s small in size and elegant in its look.

Its crisp and sharp, which makes it ideal for formal occasions, but its asymmetry makes it appropriate for business casual events too.

A relatively easy knot to tie, it’s basically a Four in Hand knot, but with the wide end wrapped around the narrow end twice instead of once. When finished, this results in a unique fold visible towards the lower part of the knot, giving it its subtle flamboyance.

When Should You Use This Knot?

Due to its small size, the Prince Albert knot looks best when worn with a tie that has a thick fabric.

Its double loop also requires more tie fabric, which is why it’s perfectly suited for long ties. This double loop also makes it a knot that works well for shorter men since it gives the tie an illusion of being shorter than it actually is.

The Prince Albert knot is what you should go for if you want a low key and subdued look, but with a dash of flair.

Though this knot looks good on most collars, shirts with a narrow collar complement it best because of the reduced gap between the knot and the collar.

When Should You Not Use This Knot?

Avoid using this tie knot on thin fabrics. Tying the Prince Albert knot on a thin fabric will result in a knot that’s disproportionately small and unimpressive.

Steer away from tying the Prince Albert knot on knitted and woolen ties too. They will produce a knot that’s too large.

How to Tie the Prince Albert Knot

Here's how it's done…

Drape the tie around your neck with the wide end about 12 inches lower than the narrow end.

Then cross the wide end over the narrow end.

Next, wrap the wide end around the back of the narrow end.

Then guide the wide end across the front, over two of your fingers so there’s a small gap to hold your loop open.

Now wrap the wide end once more around the back of the narrow end.

Wrap the wide end around your loop for the second time.

Push the wide end through the gap between your collar and tie. Then slide it through the opening at the top of the knot that you have been holding open using your fingers.

Then hold the narrow end and push your knot upwards towards your collar to tighten it. When finished, the first loop should be slightly visible under the second loop.

Conclusion

Because of its subtle and slender look, the Prince Albert knot will give you an air of elegance and sophistication.

Even though it may require you to put in some time and effort to master it, this knot is refined and stylish enough to make all your effort worth it.