Pratt Knot Necktie

The Pratt Knot is known as the Shelby Knot and the Pratt-Shelby. It was invented by Jerry Pratt in the late 1950s and popularized as the Shelby Knot; after Pratt taught it to a television reporter, Don Shelby, who felt his tie was unkempt and poorly tied. 

The Knot is a variation to the Nicky Knot as it is notably tied inside out. This knot was considered revelatory in its time. However, the knot was only recorded in the late eighties in the tie industry’s standard reference guide, despite its popularization since the ’50s. 

The Pratt Knot is unusual as it’s starting position is reverse side out. The Knot uses less material than the Half-Windsor and Windsor knot, so it is well suited to a shorter tie or the wearer being a tall individual.

The Pratt method produces a symmetrical knot and is of medium size, somewhere between the Four in Hand and the Windsor. It is the perfect knot to wear for business casual or social events. Pair this knot with a Narrow point collar or button-down collar. This knot works best for a medium face structure and does not dwarf a face like the Windsor knot. This knot is not self-releasing and so to untie your necktie please reverse the steps by pulling the thick end back out first.

Watch this following video from Don Shelby, explaining how to tie this versatile knot.

Make a statement in our bespoke neckwear for your business, club or society.

If you would like more advice, check out our guide to necktie colour combinations on our blog here. There you can find information on the best colour pairings to make a statement with your suit style.

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