How to Tie a Shirt Knot: 10 Simple Ways to Transform Your Look

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Spice up your favorite tees with these stylish and easy knots.

This may surprise you, but a simple T-shirt can be just as fashionable as any other top. When paired with your favorite high-waisted jeans, a T-shirt can be knotted, tucked, tied and wrapped in different ways to give it more pizzazz. That's why we're sharing how to tie a shirt knot to bring more personality to your look.

Below, you'll find 10 shirt knot ideas. We have the basic front knots, back knots and side knots. Those who prefer more elevated and cropped styles can consider the ruffled side knot or the pretzel knot (and yes, the finished look should be just as eye-catching as the treat itself!). And if you're looking forward to wearing button-down shirts for the cooler weather, we have a knot idea just for you! Plus, we have a few creative fake knot options that'll require a rubber band and a decorative scarf.

Remember, when making these knots, your shirt can be as low or cropped as you'd like. It all depends on your personal preference and plans for the day. So, grab a white T-shirt (preferably one with a bit of stretch), stand in front of the mirror and get to knotting, because we're showing you how something so simple can be transformed into a must-have piece.

Changing your T-shirt's style can be as easy as creating a knot in the front. Let the knot hang as low or high as you want, all while making sure the knot is tight for a fitted look.

Consider a back knot if you want the shirt to look tighter and more fitted in the front. It's just as easy as a front knot, with only minimal changes to the steps.

It's double the knot and double the style! Create a simple knot on both sides of the shirt. If you create the knots in your midsection or higher, it'll give you a cropped look that's perfect for summer.

Optional: Rubber bands will help keep your knots in place.

We call this a pretzel knot because the shape reminds us of the salty chip itself. It's a style that works well with different types of shirts, including long-sleeved picks that need a bit more oomph.

It's like the front and back knot, except this time it's on the side of your waist. Follow the same instructions to create a basic knot. Remember, these knots can be made as high or low as you'd like.

Optional: Leave the end sticking out of your knot or tuck it in for a cleaner look.

Use a decorative scarf to give any of your knots a boost of color or visual appeal.

Optional: Based on your preference, keep the scarf's tails hanging or continue wrapping them around your knot until hidden.

Here's a knot idea specifically for your button-down shirts. For cooler weather, you'll want to find creative ways to give long-sleeve shirts some flair.

This may be one of the cutest knots on our list. It's a unique ruffled look that you can recreate with your own T-shirt rather than going for a store-bought version.

If knots aren't your forte or you find these ideas to be complicated, then use a rubber band to fake it.

Here's another shirt idea that'll look like it's knotted, but in reality, your tee is just crisscrossed and tucked!

Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women's Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master's degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She's also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work.

The Best Fall Fashion on Amazon

We Tried This Viral Uniqlo Bag That Costs Only $20

30 of the Cutest Amazon Summer Fashion Finds

35 Black-Owned Jewelry Brands You'll Love

20 Swimsuits With Tummy Control

29 Best Amazon Spring Fashion to Shop in 2023

Kelly Clarkson's Best Outfits on 'The Voice'

The Most Comfortable Flats of 2023

16 AAPI Clothing Brands to Shop Now

40+ Times Celine Dion Upstaged Literally Everyone

Best Places to Shop Bridesmaid Dresses Online

8 Jewelry Trends to Watch in 2023