Wingcollared

Wingcollared refers to clothing that features a wing collar. A wing collar is a stiff, formal shirt collar with two short, pointed tips that extend horizontally from the collar edge, resembling small wings. The collar is designed to be worn with a bow tie, with the points kept visible above the knot. The shirt is typically white or very light-colored, and may use a detachable collar for easier laundering; traditional versions often relied on starch to maintain rigidity.

Historically, wing collars became standard in men’s formal wear in the 19th century and remained a hallmark of white-tie attire into the early 20th century. Today they are most closely associated with white-tie events, state occasions, and period costumes, though some designers incorporate wing collars into vintage-inspired or women’s eveningwear for fashion purposes. Variations exist in the way the wings are produced or attached; some shirts use detachable wing collars, while others have a built-in wing design. The length and stiffness of the wings can vary by maker.

In styling, wingcollared shirts are typically paired with a white bow tie and formal tailcoat for white-tie ensembles. They may also appear with other formal suits in certain contexts, but this usage is less common in contemporary dress codes. Care for wingcollared shirts emphasizes crispness and maintenance of the collar’s shape, often involving careful laundering or professional cleaning and pressing to preserve the characteristic stiff, “winged” appearance.