|
|
|
|
 |
Choosing the appropriate collar style is extremely important. There
are four basic types: straight, spread, tab and buttondown. Straight
collars are generally conservative and available in traditional (stitched
a ΒΌ" from edge of collar) and European (edge-stitched) versions. A
safe choice with any basic dress shirt, this collar style is a traditional
favorite and complements almost any facial structure.
Spread collars are cut at a sharper angle, leaving more fabric showing
at the top of the shirt placket. The Windsor spread collar has a straight edge, while the
varsity spread is cut with a slight arc. Spread collars are available
in most basic dress shirts, but are particularly appropriate in contrasting
collar and cuff dress shirts (a colored or patterned shirt with a
white collar and cuff) because of their dressier nature.
Tab collars resemble straight collars in cut, but the two sides of
the collar are held together by two small pieces of fabric, each with
one side of a snap tab or a button. When snapped, it allows the points of the
collar to lie flat on the body of the shirt, providing a very neat
and precise look.
The buttondown collar is perhaps the most popular and versatile
collar style available. Less formal than other collar styles, it is still
appropriate for a wide variety of business and business casual
settings. A buttondown dress shirt can easily be worn with or without
a necktie.
Selecting a collar style is largely a matter of personal taste. There
are a few things, however, to consider. Your collar should counterbalance
your facial structure. If you are tall and lean with a thin face, a straight
collar will further accentuate those features. To balance out these physical
features, a spread collar would be the optimal choice. Conversely, a spread
collar will accentuate a round face, while a straight collar provides more balance.
While the majority of men favor button (barrel) cuffs, French cuffs add
refinement to any dress shirt. In addition, French cuffs allow a man to
express some individuality through his selection of cufflinks. Elegant
contrasting white collar and white French cuffs are popular dress
shirt options as well.
In addition to basic blue and white, dress shirts are available in
a wide variety of options. We are most pleased to report
to you that color and pattern are once again driving forces in men's dress
shirts. The judicious use of color is an excellent way to add some life to
your business wardrobe. Gingham, glen plaid, stripe and check patterns
are also effective options.
If you have any additional questions, please email us at
PFadvisor@paulfredrick.com
|
|