Performance shirt

The origins of the Mandarin collar

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

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

The particularities of this shirt

Without flaps, the Mandarin collar is a simple stand-up collar: the two rounded corner panels do not overlap, so it is worn slightly open. The Mandarin collar shirt is a true all-rounder that comes in several high-quality fabrics: poplin, linen, or flannel.

Short collars, such as the Mandarin collar or the officer collar, are highly appreciated for their modernity and flexibility in terms of style. Indeed, they fit into both dressed-up and casual looks, allowing these shirts to be worn in both professional and private settings. However, while we may agree on their similar stylistic qualities, it's important to know how to differentiate them! It's simple: the officer collar has a button allowing it to be completely closed.

The stylistic flexibility and casual-chic look of the Mandarin collar shirt should, however, be sufficient on its own, as it cannot be accessorized as desired: the absence of flaps makes it impossible to wear with a tie or a bow tie - unlike the cutaway collar shirt, which is perfectly enhanced with a bow tie.

Do you have a business meeting but don't want to waste time tying a tie? The Mandarin 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 style advice on the Mandarin collar shirt

The Mandarin collar shirt has been seen on the streets of France, particularly in Paris, for several years now, thanks to designer Pierre Cardin who popularized this shirt collar in ready-to-wear. Discover below our style advice for the Mandarin collar shirt depending on the occasion:

- Going for a weekend in the south of France and want to adopt a chic but casual look in the spirit of the French Riviera? The white linen Mandarin collar shirt will be perfect to complete your look! Wear it slightly unbuttoned over navy 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, where you're invited to brunch in the Marais on a sunny Sunday. The perfect outfit: a heather gray linen Mandarin 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 comfortable in what he wears without neglecting elegance. The ideal outfit for a business meeting: cigarette suit pants in which you tuck a white poplin Mandarin collar shirt and over which you slip on your suit jacket. Add a pair of derby shoes to your feet and the modern businessman look is complete!