Collar Stays: Keeping Your Shirt Collar Sharp and Refined

Collar stays, also known as collar stiffeners or collar tabs, are small, flat pieces of material inserted into the collar of a dress shirt to keep it crisp and structured. They are essential for achieving a sharp and polished look and are a must-have for anyone who wants to take their grooming game to the next level.

According to an article published by The Wall Street Journal, the use of collar stays dates back to the early 20th century when men started wearing detachable collars. These collars were held in place with metal or bone stays, and the trend continued even after the introduction of attached collars.

Collar stays are necessary for several reasons:

They keep your collar in place, preventing it from curling or flopping over.
They maintain the shape and structure of your collar, giving it a crisp and refined look.
They improve the overall appearance of your outfit, making you look more put together and professional.

There are different types of collar stays available in the market, and some of the popular ones include metal, plastic, and magnetic collar stays. Additionally, collar stays can be either removable or permanent, with each having its benefits.

Using collar stays is a simple process, but it can greatly impact the overall look of your attire. For inserting collar stays, you need to locate the small pockets on the underside of your collar and slide the stays into them. To remove them, gently pull them out using the small notch on one end.

When choosing the right collar stays, it is essential to consider factors like matching the collar stay to the collar type, the fabric of your shirt, and the size of the collar. Additionally, proper maintenance of collar stays is crucial for their longevity. This includes cleaning metal stays with a damp cloth and storing them in a dry place away from direct sunlight. With the right collar stays, you can elevate your style and look sharp every time.

Key Takeaways:

Collar stays are small, stiff inserts that help keep your shirt collar crisp and in place.

Using collar stays not only adds a refined look to your outfit, but also prevents your collar from curling or flapping.

When choosing collar stays, consider the collar type, shirt fabric, and size for the best results, and remember to clean and store them properly for longevity.

What Are Collar Stays?

Collar stays are essential accessories for anyone who wants to keep their shirt collar looking neat and professional. They are small, stiff strips of material, typically made of plastic or metal, that are inserted into the collar of a dress shirt to provide structure and support. These strips come in various lengths to accommodate different collar sizes and prevent the collar from curling or flopping, giving the shirt a sharp and refined appearance.

So, what exactly are collar stays? They are the key to maintaining the shape of your shirt’s collar throughout the day.

Why Do You Need Collar Stays?

Collar stays are crucial accessories for maintaining the crisp, refined, and well-groomed appearance of your shirt collar. They provide necessary support and structure to the collar, preventing it from curling or flopping. Here are the reasons why you should invest in collar stays:

Maintain a professional appearance: Collar stays ensure that your shirt collar remains upright and sharp, creating a polished and put-together look.
Prevent collar curling: Collar stays prevent the collar from curling or rolling up, even after extended periods of wear.
Enhance collar stability: They keep the collar in place, preventing it from shifting or losing its shape throughout the day.

For optimal results, opt for collar stays made from durable materials such as stainless steel or brass. Consider investing in magnetic collar stays for easy use and convenience.

Remember, collar stays may seem like a small accessory, but they can have a significant impact on your overall appearance and confidence.

Types of Collar Stays

When it comes to keeping your shirt collar sharp and refined, the type of collar stay you use can make a big difference. There are several options available, each with their own unique features and benefits. In this section, we will discuss the different types of collar stays, including metal, plastic, and magnetic options. We will also explore the difference between removable and permanent collar stays, helping you choose the best option for your needs.

1. Metal Collar Stays

Metal collar stays are essential accessories for maintaining a sharp and refined shirt collar. Follow these steps to properly use metal collar stays:

Start with a dress shirt that has a collar slot for the metal collar stays.
Remove any existing collar stays, if present.
Insert the metal collar stay into the designated slot on the underside of the collar.
Ensure the collar stay is flat and securely in place.
Repeat the process for the other side of the collar.

By using metal collar stays, you can keep your shirt collar crisp and prevent it from curling or flopping throughout the day.

2. Plastic Collar Stays

Plastic collar stays are a popular choice due to their affordability and versatility. Here are the steps to effectively use plastic collar stays:

Start by identifying the correct size of the plastic collar stay for your shirt.
Insert the plastic collar stay into the designated pockets on the underside of the collar.
Ensure that the plastic collar stay is flat against the collar and extends to the pointed ends.
Smooth out any wrinkles or folds on the collar to achieve a polished look.
When removing the plastic collar stays, gently pull them out of the pockets and store them properly for future use.

By following these steps, you can maintain a crisp and neat appearance for your shirt collar using plastic collar stays.

3. Magnetic Collar Stays

Magnetic collar stays provide a convenient and secure solution for keeping shirt collars in place. Follow these steps to use them effectively:

Insert the metal collar stay into the collar as usual.
Attach the magnetic collar stay on the underside of the collar, aligning it with the metal stay.
The magnetic force will hold the collar in place, preventing it from curling or shifting throughout the day.
To remove the collar, simply detach the magnetic stay and pull out the metal stay.

Fun Fact: Magnetic collar stays are a popular choice among travelers and busy professionals for their ease of use and ability to keep collars looking sharp.

4. Removable vs Permanent Collar Stays

When it comes to collar stays, there are two main types: removable and permanent. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

Removable Collar Stays:
- Easily inserted and removed from shirt collars.
- Allow for flexibility and customization.
- Can be interchanged between different shirts.
Permanent Collar Stays:
- Attached to the shirt collar permanently.
- Provide a more structured and consistent look.
- Ensure the collar remains sharp and crisp.

Fun Fact: Did you know that collar stays were first used in the early 20th century to maintain the shape of men’s shirt collars?

How To Use Collar Stays?

Collar stays are an essential tool for any well-dressed individual looking to keep their shirt collar sharp and refined. In this section, we will discuss the proper ways to use collar stays, including inserting them correctly and removing them without causing damage to your shirt. By mastering these techniques, you can elevate your style and ensure that your collars always look polished and put-together. So, let’s dive into the world of collar stays and learn how to use them effectively.

1. Inserting Collar Stays

When inserting collar stays into your shirt collar, follow these steps for a sharp and refined look:

Begin with a clean and wrinkle-free shirt collar.
Locate the small pockets on the underside of the collar where the collar stays will be inserted.
Select the appropriate collar stays based on the type of collar and your personal preference.
Gently slide the collar stay into one pocket, ensuring it lays flat against the collar.
Repeat the process for the other pocket, making sure both collar stays are aligned.
Smooth out the collar to secure the stays in place.
Adjust the collar as needed to achieve your desired look.

By following these steps, you can easily insert collar stays to maintain a sharp and polished shirt collar.

2. Removing Collar Stays

Removing collar stays is a simple process that can help you maintain the shape and structure of your shirt collar. Here are the steps to effectively remove collar stays:

Gently unbutton the collar and unfold it to expose the underside.
Locate the small pockets or slots on the underside of the collar where the collar stays are inserted.
Using your fingers or a pair of tweezers, carefully grip the collar stay and slide it out of the pocket.
If the collar stays are removable, you can easily take them out and store them separately for future use.
If the collar stays are permanent, they may be stitched or fused into the collar. In this case, they cannot be removed.

By following these steps, you can properly remove collar stays without damaging your shirt collar.

How To Choose The Right Collar Stays?

When it comes to keeping your shirt collar sharp and refined, collar stays are a must-have accessory. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this section, we will discuss the key factors to consider when selecting collar stays. From matching the collar stay to your specific collar type, to taking into account the fabric of your shirt, and choosing the right size, we will guide you in making the best choice for your collar stay needs.

1. Matching The Collar Stay To The Collar Type

To properly match your collar stay with the collar type, simply follow these steps:

Determine the collar type: Identify if your shirt collar is a point collar, spread collar, button-down collar, or any other type.
Understand the specific collar stay requirements: Different collar types may require specific collar stays to maintain their shape and structure.
Select the appropriate material for the collar stay: Choose between metal, plastic, or magnetic collar stays based on your preferences and the collar type.
Consider the length of the collar stay: Collar stays come in various lengths, so make sure to choose the correct size that matches the length of your collar.
Insert the collar stay: Place the collar stay into the designated slots or pockets on the underside of the collar.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your collar stay perfectly matches the collar type, providing the necessary support to keep your shirt collar sharp and refined.

2. Considering The Shirt Fabric

When selecting collar stays, it is crucial to take into account the fabric of your shirt to ensure a proper fit and avoid any damage. Here are some steps to follow:

Check the fabric type: Different fabrics have varying thickness and stiffness. For instance, lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen may require softer collar stays, while thicker fabrics like denim or flannel may need sturdier ones.
Consider the collar style: Certain collar styles have more structure and may require firmer collar stays, while others are more relaxed and can accommodate softer stays.
Evaluate the collar stiffness: If your shirt collar is already stiff, it may be best to opt for more flexible collar stays to avoid making it too rigid.
Take note of any special care instructions: Certain fabrics may have specific care requirements, so choose collar stays that won’t cause damage or be affected by the fabric’s cleaning process.

3. Choosing The Right Size

When selecting collar stays, it is important to choose the correct size for a proper fit. Here are the steps to follow when determining the right size:

Measure your collar: Use a measuring tape to measure the length and width of your collar.
Refer to the collar stay size chart: Each brand may have its own size chart. Find the appropriate size based on your measurements.
Consider the material of the collar stay: Metal collar stays are typically available in standard sizes, while plastic collar stays may have adjustable lengths.
Test the fit: Insert the collar stay into the collar and make sure it lays flat and fits snugly against the fabric without causing any bunching or bulging.

Fun Fact: Collar stays were first introduced in the early 1900s to maintain the crisp shape of shirt collars.

Tips For Maintaining Your Collar Stays

As essential accessories for a polished and put-together look, collar stays play an important role in keeping your shirt collar crisp and refined. However, like any other item of clothing, they require proper maintenance to ensure their longevity and effectiveness. In this section, we will discuss some useful tips for maintaining your collar stays, including how to clean metal collar stays and how to properly store them when not in use.

1. Cleaning Metal Collar Stays

Properly cleaning your metal collar stays is crucial for maintaining their durability and effectiveness. To effectively clean your metal collar stays, follow these simple steps:

Remove the collar stays from your shirt collar.
Rinse them under running water to eliminate any surface dirt or debris.
Fill a bowl or sink with warm water and add a small amount of mild dish soap.
Place the collar stays in the soapy water and gently scrub them with a soft brush or cloth to remove any residue or stains.
Rinse the collar stays thoroughly with clean water to ensure all soap residue is removed.
Use a clean towel to pat dry the collar stays or allow them to air dry completely before using or storing them.

By following these steps, you can effectively clean your metal collar stays and keep them in pristine condition, ensuring they continue to keep your shirt collar sharp and refined.

2. Storing Collar Stays Properly

Properly storing collar stays is crucial for their longevity and organization. To ensure your collar stays are stored correctly, follow these steps:

Before storing, clean your collar stays to remove any dirt or residue.
Use a designated container, such as a small box or a collar stay organizer, to keep them organized and prevent them from getting lost.
Avoid storing collar stays loosely in a drawer where they can become tangled or damaged.
Consider using a magnetic collar stay holder to easily organize and access your collar stays.
Label or categorize your collar stays by type or size for easy identification.
Store your collar stays in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent warping or discoloration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are dress shirt collar stays and why are they important?

Ans: Dress shirt collar stays are small, stiff strips of material that are inserted into the collar of a dress shirt to keep the collar points flat and straight. They are important because they help to maintain a polished and refined look, preventing the collar from curling and appearing unkempt.

What are the best options for dress shirt collar stays?

Ans: The best dress shirt collar stays on the market are those that are durable, easy to use, and provide the desired level of stiffness for the collar. Some popular brands include Wurkin Stiffs, Stiff-N-Stays, and Power Stays. It is recommended to have a variety of sizes on hand to fit different collar types and sizes.

What is the history behind dress shirt collar stays?

Ans: In the late 19th and early 20th century, men’s shirts had detachable collars and a crisp, sharp collar was a desired look. Starching the collar was common during this time, with an excessive amount used to create a stiff and uncomfortable collar. Dress shirt collar stays existed during this era, but were uncommon and sewn into the collar’s leaf, rather than being removable.

Who invented the modern dress shirt collar stay?

Ans: The modern collar stay, made of plastic and inserted into a diagonal “pocket” in the collar’s points, was invented by Max Rittenberg in the late 1910s/1920s. Rittenberg’s employer, James Oviatt, did not see the value in the invention and passed it on to a friend at Van Heusen shirt company. The company subsequently patented the design and began producing plastic collar stays.

What is the connection between collar stays and the bespoke menswear haberdashery, Alexander and Oviatt?

Ans: Alexander & Oviatt is a custom dress shirt maker and bespoke menswear haberdashery based in Los Angeles. They specialize in creating high-quality, custom-made dress shirts for their clients. As a dress shirt company, they understand the importance of collar stays in maintaining a polished and refined look.

Can collar stays be used with a contrast collar shirt?

Ans: Yes, collar stays can be used with a contrast collar shirt. It is important to choose the right size and type of collar stay to fit the specific collar and ensure it stays flat and straight. The collar stays should be inserted into the diagonal “pocket” on the underside of the collar to keep it in place.