Mandarin collar shirt
The mandarin collar is part of the short stand-up collars and originates from Asia, as its name indicates. Minimalist and modern, this collar is strictly worn without any neck or bow ties, giving off an elegant nonchalance.
The first steps of the Mao collar shirt
The Mandarin collar originates from Chinese women's clothing, generally silk with floral motifs, called "qipao" and worn by the king's courtesans. Towards the beginning of the 20th century, this traditional dress became the symbol of the Republic of China. Its split collar is the one later known as the "Mandarin collar ».
Why Mandarin? It was when Mao Zedong came to power that he decided to ban these women's clothing because for him it represented the apology of capitalism. He wanted the Communist Republic of China to be represented by the blue collar workers. Nevertheless, it was he who made this collar known during his public appearances as a military officer. This straight collar goes up along the neck and does not make folds.
The Mao collar shirt in the 21st century
The main characteristic of the Mandarin collar shirt is, of course, its straight collar, whose rounded tips do not generally come into contact, unlike the reverse collar shirt. The latter starts at the base of the neck and rises 2 to 5 centimeters depending on the model. The Mandarin collar shirt brings an ethnic aspect to a casual outfit. However, this collar can also be worn for more sophisticated occasions with formal pieces since it is worked, original and elegant. You can wear a leather belt or a cognac belt with this collar and put on a pair of derby shoes!
Its unique shape means it cannot be worn with a tie, so it is best worn for occasions when a formal dress code is not required. You can still wear a Mandarin collar shirt with a classic suit to add a creative touch to your outfit. This type of shirt is also perfect for the summer seasons. Indeed, they are often made from aerated materials such as linen or cotton in light colours such as grey or white.
A question about our collections?
The Mandarin collar stands out for its minimalist elegance and short, banded design without flaps. It is typically worn in a casual style but can also adapt to more formal outfits depending on the context. Here are some tips for wearing it:
- Casual look: Pair a Mandarin collar shirt with chinos or jeans. Leave the collar slightly open for a relaxed and casual style.
- Formal style: For a more sophisticated look, button the shirt all the way up and wear it with dress pants or a tailored jacket. The Mandarin collar adds a modern touch while remaining elegant.
- Accessories: Avoid ties or bow ties, as they do not suit this type of collar. Opt for a watch or a discreet bracelet to complete the outfit.
The Mandarin collar is a versatile option that fits various situations thanks to its minimalist and modern style. Here are some occasions where it is particularly suitable:
- Daily wear: Perfect for relaxed yet elegant outfits. Pair it with jeans or chinos for a neat but laid-back look.
- Evenings: For a dinner or outing, choose a Mandarin collar shirt with dress pants or a lightweight jacket.
- Professional settings: In a less formal work environment, the Mandarin collar can replace a classic shirt.
- Summer events: Ideal for weddings, garden parties, or summer events, especially in light fabrics like linen or cotton.
- Travel: The Mandarin collar is practical for travel due to its flapless design, making it easy to pair with different styles while staying comfortable.
The Mandarin collar, inspired by traditional Chinese clothing, is soft, minimalist, and often rounded, making it perfect for casual-chic or summer outfits.
The stand-up collar, originating from military uniforms, is more rigid and straight, with a structured design that gives a formal and elegant touch. It is better suited for dressy or semi-formal settings.
The Mandarin collar, with its minimalist and refined design, pairs well with jackets that complement its style without overwhelming it, such as:
-Light jackets or unstructured blazers: Choose a jacket without marked shoulders, in a relaxed style, like a linen or cotton blazer, which matches the simple elegance of the Mandarin collar.
-Straight or short jackets: A straight-cut jacket or minimalist bomber maintains balance with the Mandarin collar while avoiding overly bulky styles.
-Cardigan or overshirt: For a casual look, a lightweight cardigan or overshirt pairs well with a Mandarin collar for a comfortable, modern style.
-Collarless jackets: For perfect harmony, a collarless jacket or one with a slight stand complements the Mandarin collar while respecting its clean design.
Avoid jackets with bulky or overly detailed collars, such as wide lapels or hooded parkas, as they can overwhelm the outfit.
Yes, the Mandarin collar works well for business casual attire, especially in environments with a relaxed dress code. Its minimalist design adds a modern and elegant touch.
For an appropriate look, pair it with chinos or dark jeans and a lightweight blazer in a semi-formal context. Opt for high-quality fabrics and neutral colors to enhance the professional style.