The main collar cuts for your workwear: comfort and style for your employees

In day-to-day work, comfortable and practical clothing is essential to enable your employees to concentrate on their work. However, this doesn't mean that style has to be sacrificed. One of the key elements that influence both the comfort and appearance of professional clothing is the collar.

In this post, we take a look at the main collar cuts, to help you make the best choice for your workwear.

Why choose the right neckline?

The choice of collar for your workwear should not be taken lightly. Whether you're focusing on freedom of movement, ventilation or aesthetics, it's crucial to select a collar that meets the specific needs of your employees.

As well as the functional characteristics of the items chosen (jacket, overalls, so shell, blouse, etc.), don't forget that professional clothing is also a sign of belonging to a group, an establishment, a team or a function. A customer or patient needs to be able to identify which professional is in front of them by their clothing (medical clothing, kitchen clothing, PPE clothing, etc.). Just as you can distinguish the pilot of a plane from the flight crew, we need to be able to distinguish a cleaning staff member from a care worker, an employee from a department head, etc.

The different types of neckline

The neckline is the part of a work top that surrounds the neck. 

1.       Round neckline: comfort and simplicity

The round collar, otherwise known as the 'U' collar, is o en used for T-shirts, jumpers and simple tunics. Its so , wrap-around design provides great comfort, while offering a discreet, classic  look. It's an excellent option for those looking for a functional, no-frills garment (medical tunic: particularly for a women's tunic). The cut can be more or less low-cut, or deep U-shaped or teardrop-shaped. 

2.       V-neck: functionality & freedom of movement

V-necks are one of the most popular choices for tunics and blouses. Its V-shaped opening offers great freedom of movement and optimum ventilation, essential for intense working days. Suitable for all body shapes. 

3.       Asymmetrical V-neck: originality

The asymmetric collar is characterised by a cut that is not symmetrical, o en with one side higher or lower than the other. This creates a dynamic and modern visual effect, ideal for garments that seek to stand out from the crowd. Asymmetric collars are o en used in dresses, tops and even jackets for a bold, contemporary look. 

4.       Sweetheart neckline: elegance

The wrap collar is formed by crossing the two sides of the garment and overlapping them at the front, creating a deep V neckline. This type of collar is very popular in dresses and tops, as it enhances the silhouette while offering undeniable comfort and elegance. The wrap collar is synonymous with femininity and sophistication. 

5.       Gooseneck: Refinement

The swan collar is high and wraps around the neck, sometimes in several layers, creating a graceful, elongated swan-like effect. This collar is ideal for jumpers or winter clothing, as it adds both warmth and style. It's perfect for a refined, elegant and protective look. 

6.       Bateau neckline: elegance and practicality

Less common, but just as practical, the boat neck offers a wide cut that follows the line of the collarbones. It's ideal for blouses and tunics that require great freedom of movement while adding a touch of elegance to everyday wear. Less suitable for everyday wear, there is a drop-shoulder version. 

7.       Square neckline: simplicity

The square collar has a geometric shape with a straight horizontal cut on the chest and right angles at the corners. This type of collar adds a structured, modern touch to an outfit. It is o en used in dresses or tops for an elegant, retro look. 

8.       Trapeze neckline: style

The trapeze collar has a flared shape, wider at the base than at the top, reminiscent of a trapeze silhouette. This collar adds subtle originality to garments, creating a visual effect that elongates the bust. It is o en used in women's clothing for a chic yet casual effect. 

9.       Bold  trapeze neckline

This collar is the opposite of the classic trapeze collar, with a narrower base and an opening that widens towards the top. This unusual shape gives garments an avant-garde look, highlighting the neck and shoulder area. It's perfect for creations that are looking for an innovative and distinctive style. 

The different types of collar

The collar is a part attached to the neckline of the garment, framing the neck. 

1.       Tailored collars: authenticity and refinement

The tailored collar is a wide collar with a lapel, used mainly on coats, jackets or blouses. It is designed for anyone who wants to maintain a formal, wellgroomed appearance in a professional context (o en required for a medical gown: particularly for a woman's white coat). It is particularly suited to environments where image and presentation play a key role in interaction and credibility. 

2.       Shirt collar or knight's collar: professionalism and versatility

For professionals who want to adopt a more formal look, the lapel collar, otherwise known as the shirt collar, is an excellent choice. It adds a touch of professionalism while remaining comfortable. Shirt collars are particularly suited to blouses or polo shirts. There are many different collars: French, Italian, English, American, Cuban, cutaway, horizontal, club, broken, shawl, claudine, cape, poet, shirt, napoleon, etc.

 

3.       Officer's collar: simplicity and modernity

The stand-up collar has no flap. It's ideal for a modern, streamlined look. Its minimalist cut is elegant, but also very practical, because it eliminates any risk of neck discomfort, which is crucial during long hours of service (ideal for a kitchen jacket or a men's sleeveless waistcoat). This cut can be used to distinguish a 'men's' model from a 'women's model. You can choose from a number of variations: Mao collar, Russian collar, Mandarin collar, etc. 

4.       High collar: comfort

Otherwise known as a trucker neck, it rises vertically around the neck and has a zip fastening that usually opens at the front. It can be fitted or slightly loose, covering the neck up to a certain height. It is o en designed to offer protection from the cold, while adding a touch of sophistication. It is particularly popular for outerwear, where functionality and comfort are paramount. 

These different collar cuts allow you to play with the styles and effects you're looking for in your garments, from the most formal to the most casual, using a variety of cultural influences. Our sales team and design office can help you clarify your requirements.

Do not neglect the choice of your textile items, as they will show off your teams to best advantage!

Get in touch with ALM's sales department now, who will help you choose a model to suit your employees' requirements