Types of Shirt Collars Explained: The Complete Guide
Choosing the right dress shirt that matches all your requirements as fit, color, and brand may already seem like a lot, but there’s one last thing to take into consideration and to learn about: the collar type. These guys exist in all shapes and forms - and the biggest factor in choosing is, of course, a matter of personal taste. But since each one of them has a history, and each spread complements different outfits in different ways, we owe you an explanation.
Given that the collar meets the eye first, and this part of the shirt is located closest to your neck and face, we’re going to need a shape that will complement that area in the best way possible. That’s why we provide you with a quick guide to every type of shirt collar worth knowing about - paying close attention to the following factors:
- Collar height & size
- Stiffness
- Spread type
The different types of shirt collars
In this quick guide, we’ll make this little job an easy one. Out of all the 50+ types, we’ve broken it down to the 11 most common shirt collars - when to wear them, how to wear them, and how to choose them. But to disobey the ‘collar rules’ a little bit, and to focus on the most important: the final goal is to help you find a collar type that you feel good in and, above all, look good in. Let’s go!
Point Collar
Probably the most known, and therefore the classic one: the (forward) point collar. This type is a perfect, multipurpose option to cover a lot of occasions and looks with. Shirts with this more straight shaped collar owe their name to - yes - the point-shaped ends. From attending a wedding to attend an important business meeting - this is your go-to option: it frames the tie perfectly, regardless of the type of knot you choose to tie your tie in.
Stylist tip: go for a classic white color and include this style in your smart casual look, pairing it up with a blazer and dry denim. Wearing this traditional collar with a suit is a great option as well.
English Spread
Originally curated in Great Britain to wear with wider tie knot - to show off the tie - the spread collar is the way to go when more noticeable neckwear is something you’re planning to add to your outfit. Think: good quality, structured woolen ties - maybe even printed. The spread collar goes well with different styles of knots, but specifically with a regular half Windsor or full Windsor knot.
Buttondown Collar
The idea of the classic button-down was found as a solution to the problem of flapping-up collars while playing polo. Back in the days, it was essential for polo players to show up and play in a tailored shirt. But with all that speed going on, that often led to a loss of vision. In the modern days, the button-down is the least dressed option of all. Perfect when you’re aiming for a sporty, laid back, but still sophisticated look.
Stylist tip: the button-down looks great in a comfortable Sunday outfit, combining it with a sporty sweater and slim-fit denim.
Tab Collar
Different from the other collar types, this is one that has one simple rule you should not forget: wear this type of shirt collar, wear a tie. The tab holds the collar neatly in place, but also gives a little more volume and body to the tie you wear, subtly pushing him a little up. The tab collar is a classic, vintage style - and shows that you know what you’re talking about if you wear it well.
Cutaway Collar
As the name speaks; the cutaway collar is shaped more cut away from the face. With an extreme cutaway, the collar points are cut at an angle of 180 degrees. In this way, looking from the front, the collar almost creates a straight line. A formal style to match up with a presentable tie, preferably in the wide full Windsor knot. Perfect for weddings, for example.
Stylist tip: wear in a classic always a good choice outfit, consisting of a navy blue blazer, tie, and white dress shirt.
Club Collar
Founded by Britain’s Eton College, the club collar is - once again - a classic on the list. The rounded shape of the collar points immediately gives a vintage and dandy feel to the shirt. Matched to perfection with a collar pin, a slimmer tie, and a checkered, slim-cut blazer, this is surely one to stand out the crowd with.
Pin Collar
The pin collar can be placed in the same category as the tab collar - with its narrow space in between the collar points, this collar style also gives the tie space to shine. Exactly how we like it. The pin collar has just that opportunity to give your look a little extra: pins and bars are available in a wide range of varieties.
Stylist tip: go bold with either the collar pin or the tie. A printed tie means a subtle collar bar. Extraordinary collar pin design? Keep the tie design clean and minimalistic.
Band Collar
Given the fact that there’s almost no collar - this casual style is meant to be worn without a tie. The band collar has become a favorite under the young professionals, more ‘fashion’, going for a smart-casual look. In the same genre, there’s a more distinguished version: the Mandarin collar. The difference between these two collarless shirts is the button closure - the band- or ‘grandad’ collar can be closed until the top, the mandarin collar can’t - there’s no top button.
Hidden Button Collar
This collar style is often considered as the best of both worlds - the straight, pointy ends from the point collar, and the practicality of the button-down collar. Yes: this is a win-win. From day to night, this one will stand by your side and makes you look decent at any occasion, tie, or no tie.
Stylist tip: goes well with tailored pants and dress shoes. Add a colorful pair of socks to give a little twist to your office look.
Wingtip Collar
The wingtip has a sleek, sharp, and minimalist feel to it. Maybe it’s because of the small standing-up collar points, maybe it’s because this collar style is worn with a bowtie and tuxedo. Or maybe both. Nonetheless: this is the perfect basic for eveningwear, such as white-tie events.
Cuban Collar
The Male Report’s all-time favorite. We’ll explain to you why: the Cuban collar often comes with a more relaxed fit shaped shirt, resulting in an airy, breezy, and comfortable feel: perfect when dealing with high temperatures. Go all the way and choose a printed version and soak up that funky aloha style.
Stylist tip: match with plain swim shorts and flip flops, or try a printed version on light-washed, slim-cut denim and your favorite pair of sneakers.
Look your best in shirts with a collar type that suits you best, and dress like the man you feel to be on the inside.
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