Types of shirt collars – which one suits me best?

Overview of different collar types

There are many different types of men's shirts: short-sleeved or long-sleeved, classic white or checked casual shirts, formal tuxedo shirts, and many more. Aside from the different fabric qualities, colors, and patterns, shirts also come in numerous collar styles.

How are you supposed to navigate all of this? No problem: We'll introduce you to the most important collar variations. We'll also tell you which collar shape you should prefer for everyday business, formal occasions, or casual wear.

Kent collar – the classic

If you choose a shirt with a Kent collar, you can't go wrong. This basic collar is named after the English Duke of Kent.

The rather narrow collar and the medium-length, tapered collar shanks create a visually elongating effect. Therefore, this collar shape is also ideal for rounder faces and shorter necks.

Both a tie and a bow tie go well with the Kent collar. The Kent collar can also be worn open.

As you can see, the Kent collar is a true all-rounder. Whether for everyday business or leisure, you're on the safe side with the Kent collar.

Kent collar shirts should be a staple in every man's wardrobe. Don't have one yet? Then browse the bugatti online shop. You're sure to find something perfect for you.

bugatti Guide - The Kent Collar

bugatti Guide - The classic collar

bugatti Guide - Casual Button-Down Collar

bugatti Guide - The ideal business collar

Shark collar – fashionable in everyday business life

With this collar shape, the rather short collar wings are widely spaced. It almost looks as if a piece of the classic Kent collar had been "bitten off."

With a cutaway collar shirt, you can wear either a wider tie with a large knot—for example, a Windsor knot—or a wider bow tie. But you'll also look good without a tie or bow tie.

With a cutaway collar, you'll be able to confidently navigate your business routine. This fashionable and extravagant style is currently very popular. Jackets with a deep, wide neckline work particularly well with the cutaway collar.

Note: Please avoid wearing ties that are too thin with this collar type. They'll look a bit lost in the wide-open collar.

You will also find a suitable shirt and matching tie for this collar shape at bugatti.

Windsor or New Kent collar – the modern all-rounder

The Windsor collar also has wider collar wings, but not as wide apart as the cutaway collar. The collar points are also slightly rounder and shorter.

You can wear it open or closed. Depending on your personal taste, you can wear it with a tie—preferably with a voluminous knot—or a bow tie.

Conclusion: The Windsor collar is the absolute all-rounder with which you are perfectly styled – from business meetings to evening dinners

Tab collar – elegant and classic

According to legend, this collar style was first worn by the Prince of Wales, later King Edward. This particularly elegant collar style has now also become established in everyday business life.

The tab collar is similar to the Kent collar. However, the collar points are a good deal closer together.

A distinctive feature of the tab collar is the concealed fabric tab that holds the collar wings together. This prevents the collar from folding upwards and slightly lifts the tie or bow tie. The tab ensures a perfect fit.

GOOD TO KNOW: This collar shape should not be worn topless, but always with a bow tie (pre-tied or self-tie) or a tie. It simply looks better!

Wing collar – the festive one

Are you invited to a gala, a ball, or a formal dinner with a black tie dress code? As a perfect gentleman, you should now opt for the ultimate shirt collar: the wing collar.

The elegant wing collar, also known as a tuxedo collar, is worn with a tuxedo, tailcoat, or tailored suit for formal occasions. It is a stand-up collar with smaller collar points folded forward. Other features of the tuxedo shirt include a concealed button placket and cuffs, which are worn with matching cufflinks.

Be careful: Wing collars are only worn with a bow tie or ascot tie. The concealed button placket alone indicates that a tie is rather inappropriate. With a tuxedo shirt, this doesn't need to be "hidden" with a tie.

bugatti Guide - Blue cotton shirt

bugatti Guide - Striped shirt in blue

bugatti Guide - Blue Oxford Shirt

bugatti Guide - White long-sleeved shirt

bugatti Guide - Checked shirt in pink

bugatti Guide - White long-sleeved shirt

Button-down collar – the casual alternative

This casual collar shape originated in the sports world. The loose ends of the collar were secured to the shirt with a button for practical reasons. Important: You shouldn't remove the buttons either!

Nowadays, shirts with a button-down collar are very popular both in business and casual settings. The button-down collar goes well with both a fashionable, sporty jacket and a sweater.

You don't necessarily have to wear a tie with a button-down collar. For men who don't like wearing ties or bow ties, the button-down collar is the perfect solution.

At bugatti, we also offer a wide selection of shirts with this type of collar. The selection ranges from plain and checked shirts to shirts with floral patterns. There's something to suit every taste and occasion.

The contrast collar – not an everyday item, but a real eye-catcher

For men who prefer something a little more extravagant, a contrast collar might be the right choice. The contrast collar, also called a Winchester collar, is enjoying increasing popularity.

Contrast collars can be worn both in business and casual settings. They go well with jackets , jeans , and sweaters .

It is usually white, contrasting with the otherwise plain, striped, or patterned shirt. White contrast cuffs are often included. Elegant cufflinks then perfectly complete the look. More fashion-conscious people wear a

Contrasting collars and cuffs can also be made in a color other than white. Black is usually chosen as the contrast color.

Note: You should be a little more careful when choosing a tie. The more striking the shirt fabric, the more subtle the tie should be. A contrasting collar already draws attention.

Conclusion – The occasion and your style decide the collar question

Before you buy a new shirt , you should consider what occasions you'll be wearing it for. Thanks to our tips, you now have the necessary know-how to be well-equipped for every event.

One thing is certain, though: The most important thing is that you like your new shirt and collar and that you feel comfortable in it. Feel free to try something unusual and combine elegant and casual elements if that suits your style.