Types of Collars

A complete guide to the different types of collars on dresses, including the 28 most popular styles.
Types of Collars
Types of Collars
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The 28 Different Styles of Collars: A Complete Guide to Types of Collars on Dresses

Introduction: The Role of Collars in a Dress

Collars are a key part of any dress. They can be made from different materials, have different shapes and styles, and can even be adorned with other details such as bows or flowers.

The collar is the part of the dress that covers the neck area and it is a key element in any dress. The collar can be made from different materials such as cotton, silk, lace, or tulle. It could have a variety of shapes such as round, square, or V-shaped. It could also have a variety of styles like standing up straight or hanging down in an open way.

Collars are usually decorated with other elements such as bows at the front or flowers on the back for example to create an elegant look.

What is Collar in Sewing

A collar is the part of a garment that frames your neck and offers you great opportunities for design variations. Some collars are seen closer to the neck while others are longer. Collars can be wide, narrow, round and high but can also be pointed and scalloped. Collars can have 2 different styles: convertible or non-convertible. They sit around the neck, but convert to a shorter style when unbuttoned and opened.

3 Basic Types of Collars

As earlier, most collars were detachable, but lately they are an integral part of our clothes. Collars can be attached to the garment by sewing or detachable. You can classify them under three basic types of collars – stand collar, roll collar, and flat collar.

  • Stand collar - the band essentially stands upright, around the wearer's neck.

  • The roll collar is another type of collar that starts out as a stand collar which then gets rolled or folded over.

  • A flat collar can be worn on the shoulders or tucked in.

Collars are made to frame the neckline and complement the face. Some basic styles are timeless and well known. Collar styles vary in size, cut, placement, fullness and tradition. So, now let's discuss about various styles of collars.

Various styles of collars

Shirt Collar

Shirt Collar

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

Button Down Collar

 Button Down Collar

A shirt collar with buttons on the points fastening it to the shirt is called button down collar. On the other hand, a button down shirt is a type of shirt which features a button down collar on its design. They are usually made of a thicker material known as Oxford cloth. Oxford is a type of fabric that was originally made in Scotland and has a rough, woven quality to it. These qualities make the Oxford cloth popular for clothes (like shirts) because it can be durable when put through tough conditions. Oxford cloth is a type of cloth that has a tendency to retain its shape over time. It's generally a lot stiffer than other types of fabric too.

The shirt made with Oxford cloth is called Oxford shirt. Oxford shirts typically have a button-down collar. This helps it stay in place and prevents it from getting caught underneath your other clothes.

Whisk Collar

Whisk Collar

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 and then evolved to be worn as a neck ornament. It was also popular with many fashion trends of this period.

Shawl Collar

Shawl Collar

A shawl collar is a type of collar that is typically found on men's suit jackets and blazers. It is a wide, flat collar that covers the neck and extends down the chest. It is turned down and goes around the neck like a wide lapel (What is a Lapel ? The definition is present in the below paragraph). It has the appearance of wrapping up and around like a shawl. Shawl collars are made up of fabric that is wrapped around and drapes over the shoulders. Shawl collars can be made of different materials, such as wool, cotton, or polyester. They can be worn on their own, or as part of a suit jacket. 

Lapel

What is Lapel in dresses

A lapel is a fold of 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 that folded over the front. In the modern usage the lapel term is referred to the folded flap of cloth on the front of a garment, below the collar.

Turle Neck and ruffle collar

Turtle Neck Collar

The turtle neck collar is one type of stand-up collar, but the most common neckline to wear in this type of shirt would have is a roll-up or roll-down collar. 

A turtle neck is a funny thing. It's kind of cute, and it's also pretty functional because it keeps your throat covered in cooler weather. But there really isn't much to it - while they might have been big in the 90s, nowadays they're typically worn by only a few people such as bankers or doctors. It's an interesting look, but we don't recommend going out and buying anything just yet.

Ruffle Collar(Ruff)

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

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

Wing Collar-Sailor Collar-Pointed Flat Collar

Wing Collar

A wing collar is a type of formal shirt collar characterised by a pair of pointed "wings" that extend from the collar points. The wings are usually made from the same fabric as the shirt body and fold over the front of the shirt. 

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

Sailor Collar

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

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.

Notched Collar

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 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 provides extra room for the tie knot, making it easier to achieve a comfortable, relaxed fit. Notched collars are often seen on dress shirts and are a popular choice for both men and women. The notched collars are also a popular choice for business and casual shirts alike.

Peter Pan and Revere Collar

Revere Collar

A revere collar is a type of shirt collar that is 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.

Revere collars are most commonly seen on dress shirts and are typically worn with a tie. However, they can also be worn without a tie, as is often the case with more casual shirts. When worn without a tie, the collar provides a clean and simple look that can be dressed up or down as needed.

Whether you are looking for a more formal or casual shirt, a revere collar is a great option to consider. This versatile style of collar can be dressed up or down to suit your needs and can be a great way to add some variety to your wardrobe.

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

Peter Pan Collar

A Peter Pan collar is a collar without a lapel, often seen on blouses and dresses. The collar is named after the character Peter Pan, who is often depicted wearing a similar collar.

Chinese Johnny crew pilgrim square convertible collar

Pilgrim Collar

A pilgrim collar is a type of clerical collar that is 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.

Johnny Collar

A JOHNNY COLLAR is a type of shirt collar that was 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 today it is available in a variety of fabrics and colors.

Chinese Collar or Mandarin Collar

A Chinese collar is a shirt collar that stands up and frames the face. It is a popular style in East Asia, and has been gaining popularity in the Western world in recent years.

The Chinese collar is also known as a Mandarin collar, after the traditional dress of Imperial China. Mandarin collars were first seen in the West in the early 20th century, when Chinese diplomats visited Europe. The style became popular in the 1930s, when Hollywood stars like Marlene Dietrich and Greta Garbo began wearing Mandarin-collared shirts in films. 

In the 21st century, the Chinese collar is enjoying a resurgence in popularity. It is often seen on men's shirts, but is also worn by women. The Chinese collar is a versatile style that can be dressed up or down, making it a popular choice for both casual and formal wear.

Square Neck Collar

A square neck collar is a type of shirt collar that has 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, dresses, and even some sweaters. The square neck collar is a versatile collar that can be dressed up or down, depending on the outfit.

Crew Collar

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

Convertible Collar

A convertible collar is a type of dress collar that can be worn in multiple ways. It can be worn as a stand-alone collar, or it can be attached to a dress. Convertible collars are a versatile and stylish option for any woman.

Cowl Chelsea Cascade Bib Bow and Tie Collar

Cowl Collar

A cowl collar is a type of neckwear that is 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.

Cascade Collar

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

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 on formal dresses. It is named after the Chelsea district in London, England.

Bow Tie Collar

A bow tie collar is a type of collar that is made up of two pieces of fabric that are 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 take a look at the tag. Knowing the different types of collars can help you find the perfect dress for any occasion!

Bib Collar (Dickie)

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

Bertha Funnel Quarterly Zip and Jabot Collar

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.

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 a variety of materials, including cotton, linen, and silk.

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.

Jabot Collar

A jabot collar is a type of collar that is 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.

Fichu Collar

When it comes to finding the perfect dress, there are many factors to consider. One important element is the collar, and specifically, the fichu collar. But what is a fichu collar?Fichu Collar

A fichu collar is a triangular piece of fabric that is attached to the neckline of a dress. 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.

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


It doesn’t matter whether you are a man or a woman there are endless types of collars and choices. They are all derived from the three basic types of attaching a collar. These 28 styles of collars are all derived from the three basic types of attaching a collar. The three basic types of attaching a collar are button-down, spread, and pointed. Each of these styles has a different purpose and can be worn for different occasions. Button-down collars are the most versatile and can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. Spread collars are perfect for formal occasions, as they give the shirt a more polished look. Pointed collars are the most formal and should only be worn for very special occasions.

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