Performance shirt

The origins of the Mao collar

The Mao collar is of Asian origin and more precisely Chinese. It was formerly called the Mandarin collar and was differentiated by the fact that it has no lapels unlike other shirt collars. First appearing in the 20th century, the straight collar adorned the "qiuipao", traditional robes worn by the king's courtesans. It was only when Mao Zedong, former leader of the Chinese Republic, appeared in public wearing a jacket with a Mandarin collar that it was renamed the Mao collar, gaining all its popularity.

For decades the Mao collar has been synonymous with simplicity and elegance. It can be found in all men's wardrobes. Every occasion is good to take the Mao collar shirt out of the closet: it is timeless!

The particularities of this shirt

Having no lapels, the Mao collar is a simple collar stand: the two panels with rounded corners do not overlap, so it is worn slightly open. The Mao collar shirt is a true all-rounder found in several fabrics all as high quality as each other: in poplin, linen or even flannel.

Short collars, like the Mao collar or the officer collar, are highly appreciated for their modernity and flexibility in terms of style. Indeed, they fit into both formal and casual looks, which allows these shirts to be worn in professional settings as well as in private life. However, while we may agree on their similar stylistic qualities, we still need to know how to differentiate them! For this, nothing could be simpler: the officer collar has a button allowing it to be completely closed.

The stylistic flexibility and casual-chic appearance of the Mao collar shirt must however be sufficient on its own, because it cannot be accessorized as desired: the absence of lapels makes it impossible to wear with a tie or bow tie - unlike the wing collar shirt, which is perfectly enhanced with a bow tie.

You have a business meeting, but you don't want to waste time tying a tie? The Mao collar shirt is the solution! More exotic and original than the Italian collar, it will be your best choice under a suit jacket to ensure the elegance of your outfit.

Our styling tips for the Mao shirt

The Mao collar shirt is everywhere in the streets of France and more particularly in Parisian streets, and has been for several years already, thanks to designer Pierre Cardin who democratized this shirt collar in ready-to-wear. Discover below our styling tips for the Mao collar shirt according to the occasion:

- You're going away for a weekend in the south of France and want to adopt a chic but relaxed look in the image of the French Riviera? The white linen Mao collar shirt will be perfect to complete your look! Wear it slightly unbuttoned over navy blue chinos to accentuate its casual side and slip on a pair of loafers. You're ready for a day at sea. Don't forget your sunglasses!

- Still in a casual spirit, let's return to Paris, you're invited to brunch in the Marais on a sunny Sunday. The perfect outfit: a gray melange linen Mao collar shirt worn with beige chinos and white city sneakers. Your look will be elegant and relaxed, like a true Parisian!

- But the Parisian man is also a businessman who travels a lot and likes to feel free in what he wears without neglecting elegance. The ideal outfit for a business meeting: slim-fit suit trousers into which you tuck a white poplin Mao collar shirt and over which you put on your suit jacket. Add a pair of derby shoes to your feet and the modern businessman look is complete!