How this calculator works
A tie is the right length when the tip reaches the top of the belt buckle, or the middle of the buckle for a more traditional look. That point depends on the length of the torso, which generally grows with height, and on how much lace the knot consumes. A Full-Windsor uses more length in the knot than a Four-in-hand, so a taller knot needs a longer tie for the same finished position. A larger collar also sits higher and adds a little. The table gives the base length for a height, and the calculator adds or subtracts the collar and knot adjustments.
Formula
base length by height: under 168 cm 140 cm; 168 to 175 cm 145 cm; 175 to 183 cm 150 cm; 183 to 190 cm 155 cm; above 190 cm 160 cm. tie length = base length + collar adjustment + knot adjustment. Four-in-hand -2.5 cm, Half-Windsor 0, Full-Windsor +2.5 cm.
Worked example
A height of 178 cm starts at 150 cm. An average collar adds nothing and a Half-Windsor adds nothing, so the tie should be about 150 cm, or 59 inches. A Full-Windsor with a large collar would be 155 cm.
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Frequently asked questions
Where should the tip of a tie end?
At the top of the belt buckle, or the middle of the buckle for a classic look. Above the buckle shows shirt and below it looks sloppy. Check in a mirror after tying, because the knot tightens and shortens the visible front.
Does tie width matter?
Yes, and it should roughly match the width of the jacket lapel. A 7 to 8 cm tie is a safe modern width; wider ties suit wide lapels and a fuller face, and narrow ties suit slim lapels and a lean build.
Why does the knot change the length?
A knot folds and layers the fabric, using up length that does not show. A Full-Windsor uses several wraps and can consume 2 to 3 cm more than a Four-in-hand. If you tie both, size for the larger knot.
Is height the only factor?
No. Torso length, waist height and where you wear your trousers all matter. Height is a useful proxy because it correlates with torso length, but if you know the distance from your collar to your belt, use that: a tie is roughly twice that distance plus the knot allowance.