Luxe to Less: The Oversized Collar

Sizable collars are yet another recurrent fashion trend finding a modern rejuvenation.

Originally attracting regal influence as a status marker in the 16th century, large collars have undergone an extensive evolution over the decades. From the delicate Peter pan collars of the 60s to the Saturday Night Fever collar-over-lapel-moment of the 70s, it’s hard to envision an era without some form of custom collar cut.

2021 is no exception, as you’ll be certain to step into a room collar first with the exaggerated collar trend. And after a year that supplied us with whimsical cottage-core fanfare and Princess Diana style recreations in The Crown, the presence of the large collar trend needs no further explanation.

Our luxe category is an opportunity to celebrate the finer things in life. This time around, we’ve gone all out with leather-on-leather luxury, uniting deep shades in a true high fashion moment. The glue of the outfit is, of course, the silk sailor collar shirt from S.A.R.K, which works its magic to balance a dominant black 16 Arlington skirt. The lavish neckline also adds depth when paired underneath the ochre toned Lvir leather shacket, resulting in a perfectly coordinated fit. If, like us, you’re feeling extra daring, pair your look with this statement tie-dye tote from Bottega Veneta for a look fit for the runway.

S.A.R.K. Statuesque Sailor-collar Silk-satin Shirt, $586, Matches Fashion

Our ‘low’ section is a saviour for times when your love for a trend exceeds the stretch of your wallet. And while our higher priced collared shirts aimed to complement bold prints and fabrics, our low category places the Peter Pan collar front and centre.

With the unique potential to transform the entire aesthetic of an outfit, a giant collar is a must-have in your outfit arsenal. Whether you want to channel your cottage-core fantasy with a feminine broderie-anglaise collar, or put your business foot forward with a pointed Chelsea collar, the opportunities to elevate your everyday outfits are endless.

While sophisticated and defined in their own right, we think layering is the collar’s true calling. A long-time favourite fashion accent on the street style scene, layering large collars is growing to become a fully androgynous affair, after pop sensation Harry Styles began donning scallop hemmed collars and soft wool knits in an unassuming combination that sent Sartorialists wild.

Knit vests and cardigans have since become one of the most popular ways to style an exuberant collar, which is why we decided to pair this Monki cream knit vest with a classic pilgrim style collar to flaunt fabric and structure while maintaining a timeless neutral colour palette. We added chocolate boots and accessories to further enhance the look.

Monki Pari Long-sleeved Collar Top, $40, ASOS