How to Tie a Bunad-Inspired Tie: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide

A bunad-inspired tie is a modern way to wear a nod to Norwegian heritage with a dress shirt, blazer, or suit. It is an alternative to wearing a full bunad, making it a natural choice for the 17th of May, weddings, confirmations, and other occasions.

The easiest knot to start with is the four-in-hand. It has a relaxed, slightly asymmetrical shape that works well with most collars and lets the regional design remain the focus.

Before You Start

• Put on the shirt and fasten the top button.
• Turn up the collar if that makes it easier to work.
• Stand in front of a mirror and let the tie hang with the wide end on your dominant side.
• Position the wide end lower than the narrow end. The exact starting distance depends on your height and the length of the tie.

How to Tie a Four-in-Hand Knot

1. Cross the wide end over the narrow end. Hold the crossing point near the top button of your shirt.
2. Wrap the wide end behind the narrow end. Bring it from your dominant side across to the other side.
3. Bring it across the front. You should now have a horizontal band of fabric across the front of the knot.
4. Bring the wide end up behind the knot. Guide it upward between the tie and your collar.
5. Pull the wide end down through the front loop. Keep the front band gently in place as you pull.
6. Slide and tighten the knot. Hold the narrow end and move the knot upward until it sits comfortably beneath the collar.
7. Set the finish. Smooth the front of the tie. A small, natural dimple below the knot is optional.

How Should the Tie Sit?

For a polished look, the knot should sit neatly under the collar without pressing uncomfortably against your neck. The tip of the wide end should usually reach around the middle of your belt or waistband. If it sits too high or low, start again with a different position at the beginning rather than forcing the finished knot.

Do not pull the knot too tightly. A bunad-inspired tie should look considered but still feel comfortable, especially during a long Constitution Day celebration or wedding.

Choosing the Right Collar and Outfit

A four-in-hand knot works well with button-down, point, and spread collars. Wear the tie with a crisp white or light-coloured shirt when you want the regional colours to stand out. A navy, charcoal, brown, or black suit or blazer creates a calm backdrop for the design.

The tie is a modern heritage accessory, not part of a full bunad. Wear it instead of a full bunad when you want to express a connection to a Norwegian region in a contemporary outfit.

Common Problems and Quick Fixes

• The tie is too short: Start with the wide end lower, or try a smaller knot such as the four-in-hand.
• The tie is too long: Start with the wide end higher, or adjust the knot position before tightening.
• The knot looks bulky: Loosen it and make sure you are not wrapping the wide end more than once around the narrow end.
• The tie feels twisted: Untie it and begin again, keeping the front side facing outward at each step.
• The design is hidden: Loosen the knot and check that the wide end is sitting flat and facing forward.

After You Wear It

Untie the knot fully instead of pulling the narrow end through it. Hang the tie on a tie rack or coat hanger, or roll it loosely to avoid wrinkles. For more guidance, read how to care for your bunad-inspired tie.

Find Your Regional Style

Once you have the knot down, choose the regional design that feels meaningful to you. Explore the regional tie collection and find a modern way to carry your Norwegian connection.