halsboorden

Halsboorden is a Dutch term that refers to the collar or neckband of a garment. The word combines hals (neck) and boord (edge or collar) and is used primarily in historical and textile contexts to describe the neck area of shirts, dresses, and outer garments. Halsboorden can be an integral part of the garment or a detachable component.

Historically, halsboorden evolved from simple neck openings to more structured and decorative forms. In the Early Modern period (roughly 16th to 17th centuries) neckbands often featured stiffening, interlining, or starch to preserve shape. Fabrics commonly used included linen and cotton, frequently adorned with embroidery, lace, or ruffles. In the 18th and 19th centuries, variations ranged from high, elaborate collars to more modest designs, and detachable collars became common in Western dress, facilitating cleaning and interchangeable styling.

Construction and materials vary, but typical halsboorden are made from linen or cotton, with possible interlining or stiffening to maintain form. Finishes such as frills, lace, and decorative stitching reflect fashion trends and social status. Their design could influence the overall silhouette of a garment, from close-fitting necklines to dramatic, high collars.

In modern usage, the term halsboorden is mainly encountered in historical, costume, or textile studies. In everyday Dutch, kraag is the more common term for collar, while halsboorden remains a descriptor in museums, archives, and scholarly works detailing historical clothing.