kraagstijven

Kraagstijven are small inserts used to stiffen the collar of a shirt or blouse, helping to maintain a crisp and upright collar shape. They are typically placed in channels or pockets at the tips of the collar and are visible only to the wearer when the collar is turned up or viewed from the front.

Two main forms exist. Removable collar stays are thin, flat pieces of material that slide into internal channels at the collar points. Integrated stays are less common today but may be built into certain shirt designs, providing stiffness without separate inserts. The stays are usually designed to be unobtrusive and comfortable, with rounded ends to avoid snagging fabric or skin.

Materials vary by era and purpose. Traditional stays were made of metal such as brass or stainless steel, sometimes with a polished finish. Later versions used plastic, cellulose, or other lightweight polymers. High-end or vintage options may feature materials like mother-of-pearl, horn, or bone. Modern stays are often plastic or metal and come in different lengths to fit various collar widths and shirt sizes.

Historical context commonly ties kraagstijven to formal attire, especially within periods when detachable collars and heavy starching were common. In such settings, stiffeners helped collars hold their shape throughout wear and movement. With changes in manufacturing and garment construction, collar stays remain a practical accessory for maintaining a neat collar, particularly in dress shirts and in vintage fashion circles.

Care and use are straightforward: remove the stays before washing unless the garment is designed to be washed with them in place, to prevent rust, deformation, or fabric damage. Store stays flat and dry when not in use.