Until 1900 there was only one. In the 1930s, Edward, the Prince of Wales, became the unwitting embodiment of two more, even though he in fact wore neither. It was not until 1989 that a fourth became popular. Throughout the 150-year his-tory of the modern tie, only four tie knots have been recognized. That is, until now.

In this history of and guide to tie wearing, Thomas Fink and Yong Mao trace the peculiar evolution of the knotted neckcloth from the seventeenth century to its modern form. These two Cambridge physicists applied a model more often used to describe atomic motion to the twists and turns of this central item of men's dress. They discovered eighty-five ways to tie a tie, thirteen of which survived their aesthetic test, and earned their recommendation. The result is a rich blend of history, science, fashion, and practicality that will become the must-have accessory for all well-dressed men.

Wonderfully illustrated and wittily written, this little classic of sartorial elegance will charm and inform in equal measure.