A Guide to Men's Dress Shirt Collars
Collars like you wouldn't believe
We believe that every guy should have a mix of collar styles in his dress shirt rotation. From deep cutaways to classic points and everything in between, the collar is often the most distinctive component of a classic dress shirt, and it's good to have a little variety in your fitted dress shirt collection!
There are some that believe that you should wear a collar that counterbalances your face - e.g., if you have a longer face, you should wear spread collars, or if you have a rounder face, you should wear a point collar. We think this is absolutely bogus. We believe you can enjoy a collar that matches your own personal style, and not worry about following someone else's rules for what they feel might look good on you. Obviously, the most important thing is to have a shirt that fits your unique body type, everything else is personal preference. That being said, here is a little guide on the most commonly found dress shirt collar types.
A Guide to Men's Dress Shirt Collars
Tall Spread Collar
Our most formal collar. The formality comes in the form of a high collar band, which we call "tall." The higher collar band gives this collar an upright, formal stand, which is best worn under a blazer or suit jacket. An incredibly versatile collar, this one works great professionally or casually and with a variety of tie knots and sizes.
Cutaway Collar
Our most popular collar, and for good reason. It works with everything. The Cutaway Collar has a subtle Euro feel to it, and looks good with patterned or solid shirts. It can be dressed up or down - with a suit and tie, or with denim. We love it because it gives a subtle rakishness to any look that no other collar style has.
Point Collar
Our most traditional collar, and often thought of as a more American collar. It has a narrower distance between the two collar points and, when buttoned, a smaller enclosure for a tie knot. An excellent choice and a classic look for the office, it also transitions easily into casual wear when the tie comes off.
Button Down Collar
Our Button-Down Collar evolved after a tremendous amount of trial and error trying to get the height, roll, look and feel of the collar right. We landed on a medium-sized collar that walks the line between modern and classic perfectly. It has just the right amount of interlining to have a perfect roll when worn casually or with a tie for a more prep-inspired look.
Club Collar
Inspired by the early 20th century, when rounded Eton or "club" collars were considered a classic mainstay of a man's wardrobe. Ours is simple and classic and has just enough interlining so that it sits perfectly under a jacket with a tie. We think it's a great twist on a traditional shirt.
Small-spread Collar
Quietly elegant, the small-spread collar provides a smooth and refined look that is extremely versatile. Removable collar stays are included to ensure clean lines, and the crisp minimalism of this style ensures that it works well in combination with either a formal or a casual blazer, with or without a tie. Day or night, it’s a classic.
Semi-Spread Collar
One of our favorite styles for dressier occasions. Think of it as a more traditional alternative to our cutaway styles. It has a wider collar blade that is particularly well-suited for wear with a tie under a jacket. It’s a crisp and clean look for formal or professional occasions that is also perfect for post-event unwinding.
Casual-point Collar
This is a new collar style for us. Given that it has less interlining and thus less structure, it is perfect for casual shirts, such as seasonal plaids, or work twills. The collar is reminiscent of workwear or utility shirts, made from tough fabrics such as twills. A sensible, straightforward choice for casual comfort.
The Banded Collar
Often called a "Mandarin Collar" or "Nehru Collar," this is one of our new collars. It is essentially a slimmer collar band, without a collar blade or fold to the collar. It's a pretty versatile collar, with the ability to be worn more formally, or incorporated into more everyday designs. Paired with a blazer, it’s a great alternative look.
Rolled Button-down Collar
The “roll” of this collar is created by having slightly more fabric in the collar blade itself than in the distance between the seam and the button. The result is a loose curve in the collar that creates a comfortable and casual look. It’s an excellent choice when you want to look sharp, but leave the tie at home.
Small Button-down Collar
Unlike our classic and rolled button-downs, the small button-down features a much shallower collar blade, suggesting a more prep-inspired, collegiate style, but with a bit of a modern twist. It works well in a casual office setting, and it also looks great with a pair of jeans. It’s relaxed, easy and informal.