Wing collar shirt

Origin of the broken collar shirt

This shirt experienced its golden period at the beginning of the 20th century, during the golden age of formal menswear. We all have this image in mind: this collar worn by high society men in the 1920s, usually accompanied by a glass of brandy and a cigar. However, this collar gradually lost its popularity with the arrival of more comfortable turn-down collars. That said, this change in our clothing habits has not sent the broken collar to oblivion: it remains a classic to wear for more formal occasions.

What is a broken collar shirt?

The broken collar shirt is a shirt with a rather short and straight collar with points folded horizontally. These triangular points form a very pronounced and rigid flap on the collar, which is why it is called a "broken collar." It is very dressy and is only taken out of the wardrobe very rarely (or more often, for the most daring!). It is not necessary to have a whole collection of them, so it is essential to get one with a very high-quality double-twisted fabric in order to be at the height of masculine elegance for a solemn event.

How to wear a broken collar?

This collar is ideal if you like small accessories. To showcase your shirt, pair it with a bow tie or an ascot and the elegance of your outfit will be at its peak! There are several types of bow ties, but which one to wear with a broken collar?

The self-tie bow tie is the one we recommend for a broken collar shirt. You can give it the shape you want and adjust it to your liking, for an authentic and elegant result.

Regarding the pre-tied bow tie, it can also be worn with a broken collar shirt. You can adjust it to your liking and you won't waste time trying to make THE perfect knot. So, for all your formal occasions or ceremonies, opt for the bow tie with your broken collar. On the other hand, if you want to give a retro look to your outfit, you can choose to wear an ascot with your broken collar shirt.

Some styling tips

Reserved only for special occasions, the broken collar can be paired in several ways, either with a tuxedo, with a tailcoat, or with a three-piece suit. Are you lost with all these choices? Let's look at several outfit ideas together:

- You are invited to a ceremony, to be the most elegant of all, we suggest a black tuxedo, a timeless piece, under which you will wear a broken collar shirt that has a pleated front: this will add an elegant touch to your appearance. Don't forget to wear a pair of black leather dress shoes to perfect your look.

- Let's change the mood, this time, you are the king of the evening. Yes, it's the big day you're getting married! Want to impress your guests and display a refined appearance? Opt for a broken collar shirt that you will accessorize with a silk ascot. Favor a solid color that matches your suit and don't forget to wear your most beautiful leather shoes. You're ready, she/he can only say: YES!

- The modern man is also a man who travels a lot and who likes to feel free in the clothes he wears, without neglecting the elegant French touch. The ideal outfit for a business meeting? Cigarette suit pants in which you tuck a white poplin Mao collar shirt and over which you put on your suit jacket. Add a pair of derbies to your feet and the modern businessman look is complete!

For which occasions do we wear a broken collar shirt?

This type of shirt is worn for special occasions, ceremonies, society dinners or weddings. When the dress code is "chic attire required," don't hesitate... The broken collar is the perfect collar. Indeed, the broken collar, being more formal, is associated with the evening shirt. A classic collar worn with a suit is undeniably elegant, but the broken collar will amplify this feeling so that the guests only look at you! You can also adopt this shirt at a wedding if it is very solemn, you will undoubtedly receive many compliments, if you're not the groom, be careful not to steal his spotlight!