A Guide to Shirt Collars: 100 Hands Exclusive

In the elegant dance of tailored menswear, the collar does more than just frame the face—it whispers secrets about style and individuality. A 100 Hands collar is a testament to the craftsmanship of artisans who stitch not just fabric, but also confidence into every seam.

For a detailed and accurate representation of the various collar styles offered by 100 Hands and their suitability for different facial features, along with generating consistent images, let's start by breaking down each collar type:

The Cutaway Collar

The cutaway collar, also known as the spread collar, is marked by its wide-spread collar points angling back toward the shoulders. Originating in the early 20th century, it gained popularity in the 1930s and 1940s, particularly among the British aristocracy. Designed to accommodate larger tie knots like the Windsor knot, popularized by the Duke of Windsor, this style offered a relaxed yet sophisticated look.

Favored for its ability to frame the face, the cutaway collar remains a staple in men's fashion today. It pairs well with modern suits and blazers, blending tradition with contemporary elegance.

Recommended Face Types: Best suited for narrow or oval faces. The widespread balances the face's proportions, making it look fuller.

The Point Collar

The point collar, also known as the straight collar, holds a special place in men's fashion history. Emerging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this collar style was designed to offer a sharp, streamlined appearance. The closely set collar points create a narrow gap, which adds to its refined look.

Imagine a time when modern dress shirts were becoming a wardrobe staple. The point collar quickly rose to prominence because of its ability to flatter almost any face shape and accommodate various tie knots. Its clean lines and traditional style made it a go-to choice for formal and business attire, symbolizing professionalism and elegance.

Even today, the point collar remains a beloved classic, embodying a timeless elegance that transcends fashion trends. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity and versatility, allowing men to present themselves with confidence and sophistication in any setting.

Recommended Face Types: Ideal for most face shapes, especially round faces, as the vertical lines of the collar elongate the face, creating a slimming effect.

The Button-Down Collar

The button-down collar, now a timeless classic, was born out of necessity on British polo fields in the late 19th century. Polo players sewed buttons onto their collars to keep them from flapping during matches. This practical innovation caught the eye of John E. Brooks of Brooks Brothers, who brought the idea back to the U.S. in 1896.

Brooks Brothers introduced the button-down collar shirt, combining function with style. It quickly gained popularity, becoming an Ivy League staple and a symbol of American preppy fashion. Its versatility, suitable for both casual and semi-formal wear, has made the button-down collar a beloved choice for over a century.

Recommended Face Types: Suitable for oval and long faces. The buttons add a horizontal line that helps balance the face’s length.

The Mandarin/Nehru Collar

The Mandarin or Nehru collar, known for its short, stand-up band, boasts a fascinating cross-cultural history. Originally from traditional Chinese clothing like the changshan, it provided a clean, elegant look without needing a tie.

In India, this collar gained fame through Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister, who wore it as a symbol of modern yet traditional style. The Nehru jacket became iconic in the mid-20th century and gained global popularity in the 1960s, partly due to The Beatles.

Today, the Mandarin/Nehru collar is cherished for its minimalist sophistication, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and contemporary fashion.

Recommended Face Types: Complement round and square faces by adding length to the neck, making the face appear longer.

Timeless Shirt Collars to Elevate Your Style

In exploring the world of shirt collars, from the classic Point Collar and the practical Button-Down to the sophisticated Cutaway, the and the minimalist Mandarin/Nehru Collar, we see how each style brings its unique flair and functionality to your wardrobe. These collars not only frame the face and enhance your look but also tell a story of cultural heritage and evolving fashion. Embrace these timeless designs to elevate your style and express your individuality with confidence and grace.

We hope you enjoyed this dive into the world of shirt collars. Stay stylish!

For more insights and sartorial tips, stay tuned and continue exploring the elegance of men's fashion with us.

Nillesh Karani

Director at KING'S