28 Different Types of Collars: A Complete Guide to Types of Collars on Dresses

Collars are more than just a functional part of a garment; they’re a statement of style and personality. From the elegant Peter Pan collar to the bold Mandarin collar, each types of collars bring its own charm to an outfit. Collars frame the neckline, highlight the face, and can transform a simple dress into a fashion masterpiece. In this guide, we’ll explore 28 unique collar styles that showcase the versatility and creativity in fashion design.

#1 Shirt Collar

Shirt collars are fundamental types of collars. The shirt collar is a flap of fabric on the front of a shirt that folds down over the top part of the shoulder. Depending on its design, it should button in some ways or stand up, but it may also be long and fold down over at least some portion, as determined by the person. The term "shirt collar" is typically used to describe stand-up collars found on shirts. However, it also applies to other types of collars, such as button-downs or turtlenecks.

#2 Button Down Collar

A button-down collar is a type of shirt collar with buttons on the collar points that fasten it to the shirt. This design ensures the collar stays neatly in place, even during active movement, making it practical and stylish.

A button-down shirt, on the other hand, is any shirt that features a button-down collar as part of its design. These shirts are versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Oxford cloth is a popular fabric often used for making button-down shirts. This material was originally developed in Scotland and is characterized by its basketweave texture, which gives it a slightly rough yet durable feel. Oxford cloth is known for its sturdiness and ability to maintain its shape, making it an excellent choice for casual and semi-formal shirts.

#3 Whisk Collar

A stiff collar with a folded tip that sits at the top of your shoulder and extends to the bottom in a half-moon shape. The whisk collar was a wide-standing collar, originally a stiff, ornate chest decoration worn during the first decades of the 17th century in Spain. It then evolved to be worn as a neck ornament. It was also popular with many fashion trends of this period.

#4 Shawl Collar

A shawl collar is a type of collar that is typically found on men's suit jackets and blazers. It is a broad, flat collar that curves smoothly around the neck and extends down the chest, resembling a shawl wrap. It folds like a wide lapel, adding a soft, elegant touch to garments. Shawl collars are often seen on suit jackets, blazers, and robes, giving them a stylish and polished look.

These collars are made from various fabrics, such as wool, cotton, or polyester, and can be worn with formal wear or casual outfits. The design drapes gracefully over the shoulders, making it functional and fashionable.

What is Lapel?

A lapel is the folded cloth on the front of a jacket or coat. The word derives from Old French lappel, meaning "flap," and originally referred only to the part of a garment folded over the front. In modern usage, the lapel term refers to the folded flap of cloth on the front of a garment below the collar.

#5 Turtle Neck Collar

A turtleneck is a funny thing. It's kind of cute, and it's also pretty functional because it keeps your throat covered in cooler weather. It is a type of high, close-fitting collar that wraps snugly around the neck. It is usually made from stretchy fabric and can be folded over or left standing upright. Turtlenecks are commonly found on sweaters, shirts, and dresses and are ideal for keeping the neck warm in cooler weather.

This versatile collar style is both functional and fashionable, often adding a sleek, sophisticated look to casual and formal outfits alike.

#6 Ruffle Collar(Ruff)

A ruffle collar is a type of collar made up of several layers of fabric gathered together. The gathered fabric creates a ruffled look often seen in dresses and blouses. A ruffle collar can add a touch of elegance to an outfit and is a great way to add some extra warmth during the colder months.

This was popular during the 17th and 18th centuries. Modern neckline versions have smaller heights and are often equally soft and gentle on the skin.

#7 Wing Collar

A wing collar is a formal shirt collar characterized by a pair of pointed "wings" extending from the collar points. The wings are usually made from the same fabric as the shirt's body and fold over the front of the shirt.

The wing collar is most commonly seen on formal shirts and is generally considered the most formal of all shirt collars. It is usually worn with a bow tie.

#8 Sailor Collar

A sailor collar is a type of shirt collar characterized by its wide, flat appearance. It is usually made of stiff fabric and has a wide band of fabric around the neck. Sailor collars were traditionally worn by sailors and were often seen as a sign of nautical status. Today, they are worn by both men and women and are considered a stylish and modern option for shirt collars.

#9 Pointed Flat Collar

A pointed flat collar is a type of shirt collar that is flat in shape and has pointed ends. This type of collar is most commonly seen on shirts and is considered to be a more formal style of collar.

#10 Notched Collar

A notched collar is a type of shirt collar that has a small notch on each side of the collar.  The step or notch cut is present in the collar at the point where it joins the shirt's placket. The notch helps the collar to lay flat against the neck and provides a clean, sharp look. Also, the notch offers extra room for the tie knot, making achieving a comfortable, relaxed fit easier. Notched collars are often seen on dress shirts and are a popular choice for both men and women. The notched collars are also popular for business and casual shirts.

#11 Revere Collar

A revere collar is a type of shirt collar characterized by its wide, flat appearance. The name comes from the fact that this style of collar was popularized by the 18th-century British statesman Sir Robert Walpole, who was known for wearing shirts with this type of collar.

A revere collar is a flat, open collar that lies against the garment and forms a V-shaped neckline. Its folded-back edges characterise it, creating a small notch where the collar meets the lapel. This style is commonly seen on shirts, blouses, and dresses, adding a touch of elegance and a slightly formal look.

Revere collars are also a type of notched collar only. There are many variations to this type of collar, and it can be worn with an extremely luxurious look or on a more casual occasion.

#12 Peter Pan Collar

A Peter Pan collar is a type of collar without a lapel often seen on blouses and dresses. It is named after the character Peter Pan, who is often depicted wearing a similar collar. To learn more about peter pan collars click on the below link.

Peter Pan Collar

#13 Pilgrim Collar

A pilgrim collar is a type of clerical collar worn by some Anglican and Lutheran clergy. It is similar to a Roman collar but has a wider band and is made of black fabric. The collar is worn over the clergy shirt and is usually secured with a small pin or clasp.

#14 Johnny Collar

A Johnny Collar is a type of shirt collar popular in the early 20th century. It is named after its inventor, Johnny Collins, who patented the design in 1901. The collar is characterized by its small size and rounded shape, which fits snugly around the neck. It was traditionally made of white linen or cotton, but it is available in various fabrics and colours today.

#15 Chinese Collar or Mandarin Collar

Chinese collar, also known as Mandarin collar, is a short, stand-up collar that encircles the neck without folding down. It typically has a straight or slightly curved band and may close at the front with buttons or hooks. This collar style is inspired by traditional East Asian garments and is often seen on shirts, jackets, and dresses.

In India, this collar style gained popularity when Jawaharlal Nehru adopted it in his kurtas, which later became famously known as Neheru Kurta. Today, Chinese Collar or Mandarin Collar is widely used in modern fashion. It is commonly seen in men's and women's shirts, as well as traditional Indian attire like kurtas, kameezes, and kurtis. In India, this versatile collar is mainly favoured for casual wear but is also appreciated for its stylish and minimalist appeal.

Click on the link below to explore different types of Chinese collar kurtas that are available for shopping in India.

Chinese Collar Kurta

#16 Square Neck Collar

A square neck collar is a type of shirt collar with four corners, all of which point downwards. It is a very popular collar style for both men and women and can be seen on shirts, tops, kurtas, kurtis, and even some sweaters. The square neck collar is versatile and can be dressed casually or formally, depending on the outfit.

#17 Crew Collar

A Crew Collar is a type of shirt collar with a band of fabric encircling the neck. The name comes from the fact that this type of collar was once popular among sailors and other working-class members.

#18 Convertible Collar

A convertible collar is a versatile type of garment collar that can be worn in two ways: open or closed. When open, it lays flat against the garment, resembling a notched collar or a lapel. When closed, it forms a high-necked finish, providing a more formal or structured appearance. This type of collar is commonly found in shirts, blouses, and dresses, offering both style and functionality.

#19 Cowl Collar

A cowl collar is a type of neckwear worn in cold weather to protect the neck and chest from the cold. It is typically made from a thick, warm fabric such as wool or fur and is often lined with a softer fabric for added comfort. Cowl collars can be worn as part of a coat or jacket or as a separate piece of clothing.

#20 Cascade Collar

A cascade collar is a type of neckline often seen in dresses. It is characterized by cascading ruffles or folds that start at the shoulder and cascade down the chest. Cascade collars can be made from various materials, including lace, chiffon, and satin.

#21 Chelsea Collar

A Chelsea collar is a type of collar that is attached to the dress and stands up around the neck. It is usually made of lace or another delicate fabric and is often seen in formal dresses. It is named after the Chelsea district in London, England.

#22 Bow Tie Collar

A bow-tie collar is a type of collar made up of two pieces of fabric tied together in the middle. This type of collar is often seen on more formal dresses, as it gives the dress a more polished look. If you're ever unsure about what type of collar is on a dress, simply ask a sales associate or look at the tag. Knowing the different types of collars can help you find the perfect dress for any occasion!

#23 Bib Collar (Dickie)

A bib collar is a type of collar attached to a dress's bodice. It is often made of a material different from the dress, such as lace or embroidery. Bib collars were popular in the Victorian era, and they are returning in modern fashion.

#24 Bertha Collar

A bertha collar is a type of collar that is attached to the dress at the neckline and extends down over the shoulders. It is a very popular style of collar for dresses and is often seen on formal wear.

#25 Funnel Collar

A funnel collar is a type of collar that is wide at the top and tapers to a narrow point at the bottom. It is a popular choice for dresses and blouses because it is both stylish and flattering. Funnel collars can be made from various materials, including cotton, linen, and silk.

#26 Quarter Zip Collar

A quarter zip collar is a type of dress shirt collar that has a zipper running along the front edge of the collar. The zipper allows the wearer to adjust the amount of coverage they want from the neckline of their dress. Quarter zip collars are a popular choice for both formal and casual wear.

#27 Jabot Collar

A jabot collar is a type of collar attached to the front of a dress. It is usually made of lace or other decorative fabric and is often trimmed with beads or sequins. Jabot collars were popular in the 18th and 19th centuries and are making a comeback in the 21st century.

#28 Fichu Collar

A fichu collar is a triangular piece of fabric attached to a dress's neckline. It is often made from the same fabric as the dress itself but can also be made from a contrasting fabric. The fichu collar serves two main purposes. First, it adds a touch of elegance to the dress. Second, it can be used to cover up any exposed skin on the neck or chest.

A fichu collar is a great option if you are looking for a dress with some extra elegance. It is also a good choice if you want to ensure that your neck and chest are fully covered.

Conclusion | Start Your Tailoring Journey

Collars are not just about aesthetics—they symbolize creativity and craftsmanship in fashion. From the timeless elegance of the Peter Pan collar to the minimalist charm of the Mandarin collar, understanding different collar styles opens up a world of possibilities in garment design. If this guide has inspired you, why stop here? Dive deeper into the world of tailoring by enrolling in a tailoring course.

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