Let’s face it. With the exception of winter scarves, neckwear is not a very pragmatic idea. Instead, it’s almost entirely aesthetic – enabling one to accent and accessorize any outfit without too much fuss.
Thomas Pink – Detachable Cuffs & Collar
This same idea underlies the recent popularity behind the detachable collar. The idea itself is brilliant. You can pair collars of different materials, styles, and colors with tops you already own – all without the potential bulk of layering a button-up or polo. It’s an ingenious way to style-up an otherwise drab or monotonous wardrobe.
Some of the biggest names in fashion design have capitalized on these collars throughout the last several years, but no one sums it up better than contemporary artist Louise Bourgeois. (In fact, she felt so strongly about her detachable collar that she included a monologue about it in her segment for PBS’s Art 21 series.)
“Instead of a blouse, you see, you just have these things so it is just nice” – Louise Bourgeois
But in any case, here is a curated look at some of the best and most varied examples available. As you can see, the possibilities are endless.
1) Cleo Ferin Mercury – “Hibernate with Me”
Cleo Ferin Mercury – Silk Badger
A playful throwback to the full mink scarves of the Mid 20th Century, this collar from Cleo Ferin Mercury is actually 100% silk and 100% ethical. Each one is made by hand in England. Although pictured here in the “Badger” style, it’s also available in an artic fox and a hedgehog.
2) 11 Objects – “Peacock” Collar
11 Objects – Silk Collar with Gold Leaf
Just as a collar might complement an outfit, the gold leaf is perfectly paired with a beautiful navy silk faille. It also features a brass stud closure and is proudly made in NYC by 11 Objects.
3) Falconiere – “Flower Bomb” Collar
Falcionier – Flower Bomb
Stemming from their Baroque collection, this collar from Falconiere relies on chainmaille to achieve a lace-like visual character. The juxtaposition between the materials is particularly striking, but is nonetheless extremely cohesive.
4) Miu Miu – Nudes Collar
Keira Knightley in Miu Miu Collar
Miu Miu is largely credited for bringing these collars onto the runway and into the mainstream. Despite only being around a short time, their collars verge on being one of their more iconic pieces. The label is also known for their sparrow and cat printed collars.
5) Offset Warehouse – Peter Pan Collar
Offset Warehouse – Peter Pan Collar
These collars are cut, sewn, and finished by hand in North London. Offset Warehouse uses recycled leather remnants and a wide satin ribbon to achieve a simple, but elegant look. The one above is pictured in navy, but they are also available in red, black, and tan.
6) Brooks Brothers – Wingtip Collar
Brooks Brothers – Wingtip Collar
This is the only collar in the group that is made for men. It’s everything you would expect from Brooks Brothers: clean, classic, and well made. That said, in all likelihood, women would look better in it anyway.
