A knitted tie is woven rather than cut from flat fabric, giving it a ribbed, textured surface and a distinctive squared-off (rather than pointed) end. That texture is exactly what makes it useful: it reads as more relaxed and tactile than a silk tie, while still being sharp enough for the office.
Knitted vs. Silk Ties
| Knitted Tie | Silk Tie | |
|---|---|---|
| Texture | Ribbed, matte | Smooth, glossy |
| Tip shape | Flat / squared | Pointed |
| Formality | Business-casual to business | Business to formal |
| Best knot | Four-in-Hand (keeps it flat and neat) | Any knot, including Windsor |
When to Wear a Knitted Tie
- Business-casual offices — pairs naturally with odd jackets, tweed, and chinos.
- Layering under a sweater or vest — the flat tip and thinner knot sit cleanly under knitwear.
- Fall and winter outfits — the textured weave suits heavier fabrics like wool and flannel.
- Everyday office wear — a step more casual than silk without looking underdressed.
How to Style One
Because a knitted tie already brings texture, keep the rest of the outfit simpler: a solid or subtly patterned shirt, and a suit or jacket without competing texture (skip tweed-on-tweed). Stick to the Four-in-Hand knot — it is the easiest to tie and keeps the tie's flat tip lying naturally, unlike bulkier knots that can look awkward with knitted fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are knitted ties less formal than silk ties?
Generally yes. They read as business-casual rather than formal, making them a better fit for casual Fridays or creative offices than for black-tie events.
Why does my knitted tie have a flat end instead of a point?
This is intentional and traditional to the style — knitted ties are designed with a squared tip rather than a pointed one.
What knot works best with a knitted tie?
The Four-in-Hand knot is the classic choice. It is small, slightly asymmetric, and keeps the flat tip from bunching.
Explore the full Knitted Ties collection, available in solid, striped, and checkered patterns.
Photos: Unsplash.
