6+ Shirt Collar Styles for Every Occasion

The collar is the most prominent feature of a shirt, and choosing the right style can make all the difference in your overall look. Whether you’re dressing for a formal event or a casual day out, choosing the right collar style is really important. In this blog, we’ll explore the various shirt collar styles and how to choose the best one for you.

1. The Purpose of a Shirt Collar: Why It Matters

A well-designed collar not only frames your face but also sets the tone for your entire outfit. It can make you look polished and put-together or casual and relaxed, depending on the style you choose.
The right collar can also enhance your facial features and draw attention to your best assets. Understanding the importance of shirt collar styles is essential for any man looking to elevate his wardrobe.

2. Shirt Collar Basics: Collar Stiffness and Height

The stiffness and height of a collar are crucial factors to consider when choosing a style. Ideally, the collar should be stiff enough to maintain its shape but not so stiff that it feels uncomfortable.
The height of the collar should be proportional to your neck size, with a minimum of 1.5 inches and a maximum of 3 inches for most men. Knowing these basics will help you select the right shirt collar styles that suit your needs.

3. 7 Shirt Collar Styles for Men That Every Man Should Know
a. The Point Collar

The point collar is a classic style that features two pointed tips that extend slightly past the neckline. It’s a versatile option that works well with both formal and casual attire, making it one of the most popular shirt collar styles.

Best for: Business meetings, job interviews, formal events
Pair with: A tie, a classic suit, or a blazer

b. The Spread Collar

The spread collar features two wide-set points that create a more open neckline. It’s a popular choice for formal events and can help balance out angular facial features, making it a best shirt for men option among various shirt collar styles.

Best for: Weddings, formal dinners, and upscale events
Pair with: A larger tie knot, a tailored suit, or a dressy sport coat

c. The Button-Down Collar

The button-down collar features two pointed tips that are secured to the shirt with small buttons. It’s a casual style that’s perfect for weekend outings or casual Fridays at the office, showcasing another one of the versatile shirt collar styles.

Best for:Casual Fridays, business-casual settings, and weekend outings
Pair with: A sweater, chinos, or a casual blazer

d. The Cutaway Collar

The cutaway collar features two wide-set points that create a more open neckline. This style of shirt is best for men with long or thin necks who want to create the illusion of a shorter, thicker neck, proving its effectiveness among shirt collar styles.

Best for: Fashion events, parties, and modern office environments
Pair with: A bold tie, a slim-fit suit, or a dress shirt worn open at the neck

e. The Club Collar

The club collar features two rounded points that create a more relaxed, informal look. It’s a unique style that works well with formal attire but can also be dressed down with a casual outfit, adding to the diversity of shirt collar styles.

Best for: Retro-themed events, fashion-forward office settings, and casual occasions
Pair with: A bow tie, a vest, or a tailored blazer

f. The Wingtip Collar

The wingtip collar features two pointed tips that extend upwards towards the face. It’s a formal style that’s typically worn with a bow tie and tuxedo, making it a classic choice among shirt collar styles for black-tie events.

Best for: Black-tie events, weddings, and formal galas
Pair with: A tuxedo, a bow tie, and a formal shirt

g. The Mandarin Collar

The Mandarin collar is a unique style that features a high, rounded neckline with no points. It’s a modern take on the traditional collar and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, showcasing its versatility among shirt collar styles.

Best for: Casual gatherings, beach weddings, and cultural events
Pair with: Linen shirts, lightweight blazers, or no jacket at all

4. Choosing the Right Shirt Collar Styles for Your Face Shape

When choosing a collar style, it’s important to consider your face shape. Here are some general guidelines:

Oval or round faces: Choose a collar with pointed tips, such as the point collar or button-down collar, to create the illusion of a longer, thinner face.
Square or angular faces: Choose a collar with a wider spread, such as the spread collar or cutaway collar, to soften your features.
Long or thin faces: Choose a collar with a higher neckline, such as the Mandarin collar or club collar, to create the illusion of a shorter, thicker neck.

At Botticelli, we believe that every man deserves to look and feel his best. That’s why we offer a wide range of 100% cotton shirts in various shirt collar styles, from classic to modern. Shop our collection today and discover the perfect shirt for every occasion.

FAQs

How do you style a men's collar shirt?

There are many ways to style a men’s collar shirt, depending on the occasion and your style. Pair a formal shirt for men with a suit and tie for a formal event. Wear a button-down collar shirt with jeans and a sports jacket for a casual day out.

Which type of collar is the most common style?

The point collar is one of the most common and versatile shirt collar styles for men. It works well with both formal and casual attire and is suitable for most face shapes.

Is a thick or thin collar better?

A thick collar offers a more formal and structured look, while a thin collar is better suited for casual or minimalist styles.

How do I know my collar size?

Measure your neck’s circumference just below the Adam’s apple, adding half an inch for comfort. Alternatively, use a well-fitting shirt’s collar as a reference, ensuring it’s neither tight nor loose.