Learn to Tie a Trinity Tie Knot The Easy Way With Oliver Wicks
If you’re looking for an interesting way to jazz up the look of your groom’s outfit, or simply for a sleek, but eye-catching change from regular triangular tie knots, then the Trinity knot could be the perfect choice for you. Sleek, and elegant, it generates a ton of interest. You’ll find people staring at you, trying to work out what’s new and different, and it’s the perfect first step into the world of fancier tie knots. Incredibly practical despite being decorative, the Trinity knot is a great choice if you’re looking to throw sartorial caution to the wind. .
The History of the Trinity Knot
With a shape that echoes the famous Celtic trefoil, the Trinity knot is both subtle and powerful. Ironically, we have no real idea who started this tie knot style, and it resembles a type of nautical knot-knot, as well.
While people often draw parallels with the Celtic trefoil, it also parallels a Norse decorative choice known as Odin’s knot. Without a known pedigree, it’s impossible to give credit to a specific person, or even a place or time where this decadent tie knot originated from. All the same, it’s a sleek and beautiful way to add interest to a tie, and one that can easily fit into many celebrations in your life. While we’re here, why not raise a glass to whatever hidden soul created it?
When Should I Wear the Trinity Knot?
Needless to say, like the Eldredge knot, the Trinity knot is far too flashy for the boardroom. Rather look to the Half Windsor or Double knot for that. It’s a nice way to break free of the Windsor knot for events, however. It’s also a bit of a challenge, so be prepared to practice, practice, practice, as you want to ensure The Fit That Suits You.
We’re sure you will agree that it looks fantastic enough to be worth the effort, so hang in there if you’re struggling! And remember that the width of the tie is responsible for creating three symmetrical lobes. If you use a classic tie with a defined taper towards the tail, it will create some asymmetry.
It’s certainly ‘knot’ for everyone, which we need to be honest about! It’s a knot for the ‘cheeky lad’ with a loud personality - Think tongue-in-cheek novelty, for the man that takes every aspect of life with an edgy joke, a laid back attitude, and listens to his music a bit too loudly on the train. For a more traditional approach to formality, including weddings, we’d suggest something like the classic Double Windsor… but, we’re here to talk about all kinds of tie knots, to help you make an informed decision for yourself.
- Collar: This is a larger knot that needs a spread collar to accommodate it.
- Knot size: The Trinity knot is on the larger side, but it can be compacted by dressing it neatly with a thinner tie material.
- Symmetry: Despite having more than one axis, the Trinity knot is still very symmetrical.
- Best used: We recommend this for flashy, trendy events across dress codes. This is a ‘pleasure’ knot ideal for weddings and events, and won’t transition well to the office or more traditional settings.
- Pair with: The Trinity knot needs a sleek, simple tie. While you can make a convincing argument for some patterns that are in all directions, like a fine polka dot, we prefer single color choices that let the knot shine. The tie should have less of a taper than normal to correctly make the knot. With it’s ‘out-there’ nature, it also works very well with high-sheen ties.
How Do I Tie the Trinity Knot?
Despite its overall air of mystery, the Trinity tie can be mastered, so let’s get to it! We know it’s sometimes easier to see someone do it with you, so don’t forget to look at this handy mirrored video.
Preparing to Tie a Trinity Knot
As always, make sure that you have closed and set your collar as it will be worn, so that the tie can be properly created around it. Then lift the stiff part of your collar, or pop the collar, so you have the space to work. Drape the tie around your neck with the seam side down. The wide end, or head, of the tie must sit just above your belt, where you want the tie to lay when the knot is complete. The tail side hangs on the left. You can reverse this if you are left-handed, but may not need to with the Trinity knot.
How to Tie a Trinity Knot
When you've finished your Trinity knot, you may need to fluff it a little and adjust the sides, so keep an even, gentle hand as you tie. Remember that this knot is mostly driven by the tail of the tie, rather than the wide end as with other knots.
- Cross the tail diagonally in front of the wider side to make an X shape. Bring it up under the loop around your neck.
- Pass it back over the top of the loop, then pass it horizontally behind the wide end.
- Flip it over the top loop of your collar again.
- Feed it down, through, and out the bottom of the loop, so it comes out on the far right side of the knot.
- Now pass the tail horizontally, right to left, over the front of the knot. This will make a horizontal band, keeping this open with a finger.
- Take the tail up underneath the collar loop, and down through the band you made. Place a finger underneath the tail section, just above the knot.
- Pass it around and behind the wider end, once again right to left.
- Feed it up and over the collar loop and through the small loop you were holding.
- Pull it all the way through, gently pulling in an upward and right direction until snug.
- Now you will need to tweak the knot to remove slack and balance the three folds. You can tuck the remainder of the tail behind the head of the tie, or out of sight at your collar.
Remember, the fancier the knot, the more practice it will take to get confident making it. However, the end result should be well worth it! We hope you enjoy the unique looks of this classic ‘fancy’ tie knot! Remember, if you’re looking for a knot for a different occasion, or a more practical knot, you can find out all about tie knots on this helpful hub.
Where will you be wearing your Trinity knot? The Oliver Wicks team has helped many grooms-to-be master their wedding wardrobe, so if you need a little help with this tie, don’t be afraid to reach out with any questions at custom@oliverwicks.com!
If you’re after a practical guide, with instructional videos, we’d suggest creating an account on our site (free of charge, with no purchase obligations). Here you’ll be able to access our measurement videos, which walk you through every step of measuring in an easy-to-follow process that can have you measured from head to toe in 15-minutes or less.
To learn more, check out the links in this article for more in-depth resources on sizing and measurements from Oliver Wicks.