Upturned Collar

This magazine ad caught my attention the other day. I know it’s the shoes we are supposed to look at but the man’s shirt really stood out. His dress shirt collar is prominently “popped”. For those of you who don’t know the term, it simply means the collar of the shirt is flipped up, also known as the “upturned” collar. This look nowadays is mostly sported on polos but has unfortunately made its way back to dress shirts.

Over the years it has gained a reputation of being the “prep boy look”, anyone sporting this look has been deemed as “trying too hard”. Many argue that the upturned collar can work for all collared shirts and jackets. Many also justify this as a way to keep the neck warm. But it just doesn’t work with dress shirts, no matter how cold the weather may be. We have scarves for a reason. Your dress shirts are there to keep you looking sharp, confident, important, and not a fashion mistake.

The man’s attire in this ad is very tailored with a touch of rock and roll. His pocket squares and crisp navy suit keeps him looking sharp while his popped collar gives him a touch of personal style. However this edgy and daring style should really just remain on print. Men can accomplish this look without having to flip one’s collar. Look at Brad Pitt and Tom Ford, they pull off their kemp yet scruffy look all the time by simply unbuttoning a few buttons and keeping their collars standing.

(if you are looking for more serious shirt collars or information on dress shirts be sure to download our free eBook on the topic.)

1. The Lagerfeld Collar

If you have ever set eyes on the man behind Chanel it would be hard to miss his extremely tall shirt collar. This has quickly become his personal trademark and as you can see it makes a really bold statement. This shirt collar will also be a real challenge to find at an affordable price only if you go to a really specialized tailor is this possible.

2. The Three Button Shirt Collar

We have mentioned this one before, but it is something else. Rarely do you see people wear this shirt collar, but if it were up to us the world should embrace it. Quite tall and of course with three buttons, this is undoubtedly unique.

3. The 70’s Shirt Collar

The 70’s were a great time for shirt collars. They a period of expansion… literally. These shirt collars had unusually long points and were not stiff. They have pretty solidly become a part of the past, but they are great for costumes.

4. The Imperial Shirt Collar

This shirt collar stands tall without ever bending over to create the traditional collar flips. Although this shirt collar was used centuries ago one thing is for sure, it would truly make a statement if worn today.

Don’t forget that this is NOT a shirt collar for men with short necks (they will look even shorter with this shirt collar). Read more about that in our Dress Shirt Collar Guide,our post on Unique Yet Cool Shirt Collars, French Cuff Dress Shirts or Custom Made Shirts – 3 secrets the Tailor Didn’t Tell You.