COLLARS AND NECKLINES

AMEEN AMAL ANANTHU VIMAL

 HELLO!
In fashion, collars and necklines play a pivotal role in
shaping a garment’s overall aesthetic and silhouette.
These design elements not only frame the face but also
influence the garment’s style, functionality, and cultural
significance. From the structured sharpness of tailored
collars to the fluid elegance of plunging necklines, their
variations reflect evolving trends and societal norms.

This presentation will explore the various types of

collars and necklines available in the apparel industry,
their technical construction, and stylistic impact,
demonstrating their integral role in both fashion and
personal expression.
 SPREAD COLLAR
The spread collar is a staple in men’s fashion for its versatility and
timeless appeal, suiting both formal and semi-formal wear. Known for
its wide stance, it complements various tie knots, offering a polished
look that works well for most face shapes, especially angular or slim
ones. Its sophisticated aesthetic evolved from British and European
styles in the 1920s, making it a symbol of classic elegance and
confidence. The spread angle is usually 45-90 degrees with a wide,
open shape. The point length is Short at around 2.5–3 inches, to
maintain a structured but open look.

BUTTON DOWN COLLAR

The button-down collar is a versatile, relaxed choice, ideal for both
casual and smart-casual outfits. Originally designed by British polo
players, it features small buttons securing the collar points to the
shirt, giving a neat, slightly preppy appearance. Its moderate collar
spread allows it to be worn with or without a tie, making it adaptable
to various settings. The button-down collar’s practical design,
typically with a point length of about 2.5–3 inches, adds structure
while maintaining a casual elegance in men’s fashion.
 CLUB COLLAR
Known for its early 20th-century roots, the club collar exudes a
sense of heritage and timeless style. It is popular for its unique,
rounded points, giving it a vintage, refined look that stands out
from traditional collars. Its rounded edges give a softer,
understated look compared to sharp-pointed collars, making it a
refined choice for men who want a classic yet distinctive style.
The club collar’s rounded points, typically shorter (about 2.5
inches), soften its appearance. Often designed with a closer
spread, it can be worn with small tie knots or even without a tie.

MANDARIN COLLAR
The mandarin collar’s stand-up design creates a clean, polished
appearance without the formality of a traditional collar. It’s a
versatile choice for both casual and semi-formal wear and blends
effortlessly into fashion-forward outfits. Originating from East
Asian traditional wear, it adds a touch of global style influence,
bringing cultural heritage into fashion. The mandarin collar usually
stands around 1–2 inches high and encircles the neck without
folding down. The collarless design eliminates points, giving it a
streamlined, structured silhouette.
 CUBAN COLLAR
Initially popularized in Latin America, the cuban collar brings a touch of international
style to modern menswear, giving it a distinctive look. It has become popular in
men’s fashion for its relaxed, open-collar style that brings both a vintage and tropical
vibe to outfits. This style is especially favored in warm-weather wardrobes, offering
comfort without sacrificing style. The Cuban collar is flat and sits low on the chest,
creating an open neckline. Also, it is made from lightweight fabrics like cotton or
linen, ideal for warm weather and casual wear.

WINGTIP COLLAR
The wingtip collar is often reserved for black-tie or ultra-formal occasions. Its distinct
pointed “wings” add a refined elegance to traditional evening wear. With roots set in
19th-century formal wear, the wingtip collar brings an old-world elegance to modern
events, helping maintain tradition in formal men’s fashion. When paired with a bow
tie, it stands distinctly apart from other collar styles. The collar is made with a stiff
interlining to maintain its structure and is shorter than typical collars, keeping it close
to the neck for a clean, structured look.
CREW NECK
The crew neck is a classic and versatile choice in men’s fashion, known for its simple yet
attractive design. It works well with jeans for a casual look or layered under blazers for a
smart-casual ensemble. Crew neck t-shirts are typically made from soft, breathable
materials like cotton, enhancing comfort and wearability. The round shape of the crew
neck elongates the neck and frames the face, creating a flattering silhouette that suits
various body types.

V NECK
The v-neck design draws attention to the face and jawline, adding to a man’s overall
attractiveness. They are easy to layer under jackets, blazers, or cardigans, making them
suitable for both casual and semi-formal settings. The neckline allows for better airflow
compared to crew necks, making them a popular choice in warmer weather.

SCOOP NECK
The scoop neck offers more room and comfort around the neck making it a cozy option
for everyday wear. Scoop neck t-shirts can be dressed up or down, making them suitable
for various occasions, from casual outings to semi-formal events. available in various
cuts and lengths, scoop necks can cater to different preferences and body types, making
them inclusive for a wider audience.
 HENLEY NECK
Henley’s simple design allows for a put-together look without being overly formal, striking the
perfect balance between comfort and style. It can be worn casually with jeans or chinos or
dressed up slightly with tailored pants, making them a versatile wardrobe staple.

MOCK NECK
The mock neck has gained popularity in men’s fashion due to its chic yet laid-back design.
The high collar elongates the neck and frames the face, creating a polished look that can
elevate the overall outfit. Having been made from light materials like cotton, wool, or blends,
mock necks provide ease while maintaining a refined look.

TURTLE NECK
The turtleneck draws attention to the face, enhancing features and creating a sophisticated
look. It can be easily layered under blazers, jackets, or sweaters, making them ideal for
transitional weather and adding depth to outfits. Despite their fitted design, turtlenecks allow
for easy movement, making them practical for everyday wear.
 PETER PAN COLLAR
The rounded edges of the Peter Pan collar add a
soft, feminine quality to outfits, enhancing the
overall look with a touch of whimsy. The Peter Pan
collar can be incorporated into various garments,
such as blouses, dresses, and sweaters, making it a
versatile option for different occasions. With roots
in early 20th-century fashion, the Peter Pan collar
has a classic charm that transcends trends, making
it a lasting staple in women’s wardrobes.

SHAWL COLLAR
Shawl collars are paired with various pieces,
including blazers, cardigans and coats making
them a versatile option for different styles and
occasions. Often made from cozy materials like
wool, cashmere, or cotton blends, shawl collars
provide warmth and comfort while maintaining a
polished look. The wide, soft lines of the shawl
collar can balance broader shoulders or create a
softer look for more structured silhouettes, making
it flattering for various body types.
SAILOR COLLAR
While it has traditional origins, the sailor collar
has been modernized in contemporary fashion,
allowing it to remain relevant and stylish. Sailor
collars can be worn with blouses, dresses making
them a versatile choice that can be dressed up or
down for various occasions.Typically made from
lightweight, breathable materials, sailor collars
offer comfort while ensuring a stylish look, making
them suitable for warm weather.

RUFFLED COLLAR
Ruffled collars introduce a fun, dynamic aspect to
clothing, making them visually engaging and
attention-grabbing. The ruffles around the
neckline draw focus to the face and neckline,
enhancing the wearer’s features and creating an
elegant appearance.Ruffled collars come in various
sizes and styles, allowing for personal expression
and catering to individual preferences.
 SWEETHEART NECKLINE
The Sweetheart neckline is shaped like the top of a heart, this neckline dips in the
center, highlighting the bust with a romantic, feminine look. It goes best with formal
dresses, bridal wear, and evening attire.

BOAT/BATEAU NECKLINE
This neckline runs horizontally from shoulder to shoulder, creating a broad, straight
line across the collarbone. It is appropriate for a more structured, classic look often
seen in blouses and dresses; it’s great for balancing out narrow shoulders.
 V-NECK
The V-neck creates a “V” shape that elongates the neck and draws attention to the
collarbone and upper chest. It ranges from shallow to deep cuts. The v-neck has a
Flattering design that enhances all body types and creates a balanced, slimming
effect.

HALTER NECK
The halter neckline ties or fastens behind the neck, leaving the
shoulders and arms bare, while typically covering the chest. It
elevates summer tops, dresses, and formal wear and is ideal for
highlighting toned shoulders and arms.
 CONCLUSION
In essence, collars and necklines are defining
touches in both men’s and women’s fashion, elevating
style and enhancing personal expression. From the
timeless point and spread collars in men’s wear to the
elegant sweetheart and off-the-shoulder necklines in
women’s, each choice lends sophistication and
versatility to an outfit. A refined understanding of
these details allows one to select pieces that
perfectly blend occasion and style, adding elegance
and class to any look.