Choosing the Right Dress Shirt Collar
Just like there are many different suit cuts and tie designs available, so are there many choices in men’s dress shirts. One important (if not the most important) design aspect of the shirt is the collar.It is the part that is visible right away – even if the shirt is covered up with a blazer, sports coat, V-neck, or suit jacket. Below are the 5 most common collar styles and some information on how and when to wear them.
Classic Turn-Down
This is the classic and most common shirt collar that suits many dress codes ranging from business casual to formal black tie. There are variations in collar spread. Make sure to match your tie knot to the spread of the collar. The wider the collar spread the larger of a knot you want to tie.
Button Down Collars
The button down collared dress shirt is another common collar style. It is usually less formal. It can be worn with or without a necktie, and it should always be worn buttoned down. Most button down collared shirts have a medium to narrow collar spread that is best matched with a smaller tie knot (such as the Four in Hand).
Formal Wing-Tip Collars
The wing-tip collared shirt (pictured above) is the common choice for formal black tie attire. It is never worn with a necktie but a bow tie or an ascot instead. Most wing tipped collared shirt also have French cuffs and a decorative pleats.
Detachable Collars
The detachable collar is common for black tie and the even more formal white tie dress code. The detachable collar has wing-tips. Detaching the collar from the shirt makes dry-cleaning and starching much easier. In addition, the collar height can be adjusted to suit the wearer’s neck and body type.
Mandarin Collar
The mandarin collar is quite rare in Western men’s fashion. It originated in Asia and is usually worn in combination with a mandarin jacket or Mao suit. The mandarin collar is never decorated with a tie but instead with an elegant button stud.
Other Related Readings:
Guide to Mens Black Tie Dress Code
Overview of Mens Dress Shirt Styles
Your TieKing Team – Your Site for Finest Designer Ties