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What is a tie dimple and how do I integrate it perfectly?

Benno Büchler, 29.03.2023

Süsser Hund im Anzug mit Einstecktuch

There are many tie knots, but a true gentleman pays attention not only to the perfect knot, but also to that certain something that distinguishes him from others:

the dimple.

What exactly is your tie dimple? and how to integrate it perfectly?

The dimple is a small kink just below the tie knot. It is so called because it looks like the dimple that can adorn people's smiles. It is made by tying the tie knot with two or three fingers, before putting it on, to give the wide end the desired wavy shape.



Because a true gentleman does not want to be exposed as a philistine. The dimple is a very clear sign of exactly that.

What is a dimple in the tie?

As a gentleman, I'm sure it goes without saying that you place great value on your appearance.

A tie is simply part of a stylish outfit for you, otherwise you would not read this blog. But there is a little trick that not everyone knows and that makes the difference between an ordinary tie and a really elegant tie.

But what exactly is a dimple?

A dimple is a small kink or indentation that you create in the knot of the tie by squeezing the tie slightly at a certain point and then tightening the knot properly. The result is a small but subtle fold below the knot that gives the tie more volume and depth, enhancing the entire outfit.

Tie experts and true gentlemen can tell if you are wearing the tie because you have to or if you are truly one of them.



How to tie a dimple in the tie

You always tie the dimple about the same.

The big difference between the dimples of different tie knots is in both how it's tied and when you tie it.

We differentiate tie knots based on which end (wide or narrow) takes on the active role. The end that you move around when tying is referred to as the active end.

I didn't invent this term, Elliot Truelove, the inventor of the Truelove Knot used it and I think the term is just very apt.

Back to the topic.

Scenario 1: The wide end is the active end. This is the case for most of the classic and simpler knots.
In this case, you form the dimple when tightening the tie. You create it by gripping the wide end below the knot with your thumb and index finger (making sure that a dimple actually forms) and then gently tightening the knot while holding this position.

Ein Dimple in die Krawatte geformt.
Source: Own photo

Scenario 2: The narrow end is the active end. Here you have to think much earlier about the dimple.

This knot usually begins by placing the narrow end over the wide end. Grasp the wide end with your thumb, index finger and middle finger and hold it in place until the point is practically held by the narrow end. As you tighten the knot, the dimple will form.

Szenario zwei, wenn das schmale Ende das aktive ist
Source: Own photo

When and why do you wear a dimple?

A dimple is indeed an important part of an elegant tie look and should ideally be done with every tie.

A dimple adds depth and character to your tie and shows that you know how to wear a tie properly. If you walk around without a dimple, you might be recognized by other gentlemen as a tie philistine.

There are a few, (very few) exceptions to this rule.



When not to do a dimple

A dimple is unnecessary exactly when you can't even see the part of the tie where the dimple would be placed.

These are, for example, the "Onassis knot", where the entire tie is turned up around the knot, or the "Murrell knot", where the narrow end is in front of the wide and thus covers this part.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the tie dimple is a small but nice feature that gives an outfit that certain something and shows you as a real gentleman.

So in the future, pay attention to the dimple when tying your tie and impress those around you with a perfectly tied and dimpled knot.

If you have any other questions about the topic or are interested in more tips around your stylish appearance, feel free to read my other blog posts and leave comments.

Quelle Titelbild: Pixabay | überarbeiteter Beitrag



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