How to Tie an Ascot: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

An ascot might look complicated, but tying one is actually remarkably simple. Once you've done it a couple of times, it takes little more effort than tying a conventional necktie.

Unlike a necktie, an ascot isn't supposed to look perfectly rigid or symmetrical. The soft folds and slightly relaxed appearance are part of its character.

Here's how to get it right.

How to Tie an Ascot in 6 Steps

1. Place the Ascot Around Your Neck

Start with your shirt collar open and place the ascot around the back of your neck.

Allow one end to hang slightly longer than the other. You don't need a huge difference in length – just enough extra fabric to comfortably form the knot.

2. Cross the Longer End Over the Shorter End

Bring the longer end across the front of the shorter end.

At this stage, the ascot will look similar to the beginning of a simple necktie knot.

3. Bring the Longer End Underneath

Take the longer end behind the shorter end and bring it upwards towards your neck.

Keep everything relatively loose. Pulling the fabric too tightly can make an ascot look more like a conventional tie.

4. Bring It Through the Neck Loop

Pass the longer end up through the loop around your neck and bring it down over the front.

The broad end should now cover the crossing point underneath.

5. Spread and Adjust the Fabric

This is what gives an ascot its characteristic appearance.

Gently spread the front section so that it becomes broad and full. Don't worry about creating perfectly even folds – a few natural creases usually make an ascot look better.

Adjust the knot until it sits comfortably at the base of your neck.

6. Tuck the Ascot Into Your Shirt

Tuck both ends inside your shirt and leave the top one or two buttons undone.

Arrange the visible section so that it fills the opening of the collar without looking overly tight.

That's it.

Should an Ascot Be Tight or Loose?

An ascot should generally be worn more loosely than a necktie.

The fabric should sit comfortably around your neck, with the front forming soft folds rather than a tight knot.

If it looks extremely neat and narrow, loosen it slightly and spread the fabric.

The aim is a full, relaxed appearance.

Does an Ascot Go Inside or Outside the Shirt?

For the classic ascot look, it is worn inside the shirt collar, with the ends tucked into the shirt.

Usually the top one or two shirt buttons are left undone, allowing the broad centre of the ascot to remain visible.

This is one of the main differences between an ascot and a conventional necktie.

Some formal cravat styles can be worn differently, particularly with traditional wedding attire, but the tucked-in style is the classic way to wear an everyday ascot.

Do You Button Your Shirt When Wearing an Ascot?

Generally, no.

Leave at least the top button undone. Many people prefer leaving the top two buttons open depending on the shirt and the size of the ascot.

The opening gives the fabric enough room to sit naturally.

A completely buttoned shirt can make an ascot feel unnecessarily restrictive and changes the relaxed character of the look.

Should the Ascot Show Above the Collar?

The ascot should be visible between the open sides of your shirt collar, but how much you show is largely a matter of personal preference.

For a subtle look, expose only a small section of fabric.

For something more distinctive, open another shirt button and arrange the ascot so that more of its colour and pattern is visible.

How to Stop an Ascot Moving Around

Because an ascot is deliberately tied loosely, it can occasionally move during the day.

Tucking both ends securely inside the shirt is usually enough to keep it in position.

You can also make the initial crossing slightly firmer before spreading the front section. This provides a little more structure without making the finished ascot look tight.

Historically, ascots and cravats were also sometimes secured with a tie pin, although this creates a considerably more traditional appearance.

What If Both Ends Are Uneven?

It doesn't really matter.

Unlike a necktie, the ends of an ascot are hidden inside your shirt. They don't need to finish at exactly the same length.

Concentrate instead on getting the visible section sitting comfortably and creating the shape you want.

What Fabric Is Easiest to Tie?

Different fabrics create slightly different results.

Smoother fabrics tend to create softer, flowing folds, while fabrics with a little more structure can produce a fuller shape around the collar.

The pattern can also affect the finished appearance. Paisley and floral designs work particularly well with the natural folds of an ascot, while plain colours provide a cleaner and more understated look.

What Should You Wear With an Ascot?

Once you've mastered the knot, there are plenty of ways to wear one.

A white shirt and dark blazer is perhaps the easiest starting point. Ascots also work particularly well with tweed jackets, especially in paisley, burgundy, green, navy and other traditional colours.

They can be worn for weddings and other special occasions, but there's no reason to reserve an ascot exclusively for formal events.

For more ideas on shirts, jackets, colours and occasions, read our complete guide to how to wear an ascot.

Don't Aim for Perfection

One of the most common mistakes when learning how to tie an ascot is spending too much time trying to make it perfectly symmetrical.

It doesn't need to be.

The knot is largely hidden and the visible fabric should have natural folds and movement.

Once you've tied your ascot, make a few small adjustments, spread the front and leave it alone.

The slightly relaxed finish is exactly what you're looking for.

Find an Ascot to Suit Your Style

At The Ascot Shop, you'll find ascots and cravats in a wide selection of plain colours, paisley patterns, florals and other designs.

Whether you're dressing for a wedding, pairing an ascot with tweed or simply looking for something different from a conventional necktie, there's plenty of choice to find a style that works with your outfit.