18-05-2025
If you've got it, flaunt it! Statement collars are certainly in fashion
Beautifully tied up with a white shirt featuring a collar adorned with not one, but three bows! Photo: Moschino
It's one of the overlooked aspects of an outfit, yet it is important if you want to create a flattering look and bring out your best angles. We're talking collars here.
The right style can frame your face well and complement your features.
Among the more common tips is that soft, rounded collars can soften the features, point collars can create the illusion of a more elongated neck or face, while oblong faces should avoid wearing high or wide collars as they tend to elongate the face further.
For a slimmer face effect, narrow collars are the best design element as they visually minimise width and add length.
A leather coat featuring a sculptural and dramatic collar makes a striking statement. Photo: Balanciaga Speaking of collars, the latest looks on the runway feature collars ranging from those that take inspiration from historical periods to fashion-forward versions that are bold and eye-catching.
Read more: Brimming with style: Cowboy hats are now taking the fashion spotlight
This highlights a trend where collars that are interesting and noticeable are designed as such to make even simple clothes stand out.
Most dramatic has to be the one from Dior's Autumn/Winter 2025 ready-to-wear line.
Inspired by the Elizabethan ruff collar, a distinctive pleated, fan-shaped collar once worn by medieval and Renaissance royalty, this period-inspired collar lends a regal flourish to a metallic silver dress.
A simpler interpretation of the collar, yet still striking can be seen at Louis Vuitton.
Part of a jumpsuit, this version is crafted in metallic gold that is beautifully pleated and adorned with a black velvet ribbon.
Our top pick is a high collar with ruffles that speaks volumes about style and sophistication.
A Ralph Lauren creation, it forms part of a white shirt worn under a tailored dress. So dramatically chic!
Italian label Moschino takes the same dramatic style route with a white shirt featuring a collar that's tied together beautifully – not with just one bow, but with three!
Read more: Want to look fashionable – and ultra rich? Dress in cream, beige or off-white
British brand Burberry reimagines Count Dracula's flair with a cool, suave open collar.
The collar, part of a pyjama- style ensemble of matching pants and a coat, offers a look perfect for an evening out, with Dracula himself sure to approve.
An exaggerated version of the Dracula collar is evident at Balenciaga where a leather coat is designed with a collar that is flipped high up that it even covers the back of the model's head! Talk about turning heads!
