Wingtip Collar Shirts: The Ultimate Guide to Wearing a Classic with Style

Wingtip collar shirts, also known as spread collar shirts, are a versatile and timeless wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down for a variety of occasions. With their distinctive spread collar tips that extend beyond the neckline, wingtip shirts add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit.

History of the Wingtip Collar Shirt

The origins of the wingtip collar can be traced back to the early 19th century, when it was a popular style among European royalty and aristocrats. The wide, spread collar was designed to accommodate the high necklines of waistcoats and cravats that were fashionable at the time.

Over time, the wingtip collar became a staple of men's formal wear. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, wingtip shirts were widely worn with tuxedos, tailcoats, and dinner jackets. However, in recent decades, the wingtip collar has become more versatile and is now seen in a variety of casual and dressy contexts.

Types of Wingtip Collars

There are several different types of wingtip collars, each with its own unique characteristics:

• Short-point wingtip collar: The tips of the collar extend slightly beyond the neckline, creating a subtle and understated spread.
• Long-point wingtip collar: The tips of the collar extend significantly beyond the neckline, creating a more dramatic and eye-catching spread.
• Cut-away wingtip collar: The tips of the collar are cut away at an angle, creating a wider and more open spread.
• Tab wingtip collar: The collar has a small tab at the center that can be buttoned down to create a more formal look.
• Spread wingtip collar: The tips of the collar are spread apart at a moderate angle, creating a classic and versatile spread.

Choosing the Right Wingtip Collar Shirt

When choosing a wingtip collar shirt, there are several factors to consider:

• Face shape: Wingtip collars can complement different face shapes in different ways. Short-point wingtip collars tend to suit round or square faces, while long-point wingtip collars can elongate and slim down longer faces.
• Neck size: The width of the collar should be proportionate to the size of your neck. If your neck is relatively thin, a narrower collar will be more flattering. If your neck is wider, a wider collar will help to balance your proportions.
• Body type: Wingtip collar shirts can be tailored to flatter different body types. For example, shorter men may want to opt for a shirt with a shorter spread collar, while taller men can wear a shirt with a longer spread collar.
• Occasion: The formality of the occasion will determine the type of wingtip collar shirt that is appropriate. For formal events, a shirt with a cut-away or tab wingtip collar is a good choice. For more casual settings, a shirt with a short-point or spread wingtip collar is more versatile.

Styling Wingtip Collar Shirts

Wingtip collar shirts can be dressed up or down with a variety of accessories and outfit choices:

• Suits and ties: Wingtip collar shirts pair well with suits and ties for a classic and elegant look. A cut-away or tab wingtip collar will add a touch of sophistication to a tuxedo or tailcoat.
• Sport coats and blazers: Wingtip collar shirts can also be worn with sport coats and blazers for a more casual yet polished look. A short-point or spread wingtip collar will create a more versatile outfit that can be dressed up or down.
• Jeans and chinos: Wingtip collar shirts can be paired with jeans or chinos for a more casual and relaxed look. A short-point or spread wingtip collar will create a more casual outfit that is perfect for running errands or meeting friends.
• Accessories: Accessories such as cufflinks, collar stays, and pocket squares can be used to add personality and style to a wingtip collar shirt. A pair of cufflinks with a subtle design can add a touch of elegance, while a colorful pocket square can add a pop of color.

Tips and Tricks

• Always wear a collar stay to keep the collar points in place and looking sharp.
• If you have a narrow neck, consider opting for a narrower collar to avoid looking top-heavy.
• If you have a wider neck, a wider collar will help to balance your proportions.
• For a more formal look, pair a wingtip collar shirt with a tie and a suit.
• For a more casual look, pair a wingtip collar shirt with jeans or chinos.
• Add accessories such as cufflinks, collar stays, and pocket squares to personalize your look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not wear a wingtip collar shirt with a button-down collar.
• Do not wear a wingtip collar shirt that is too tight or too loose.
• Do not wear a wingtip collar shirt that is too wrinkled or unkempt.
• Do not wear a wingtip collar shirt with a tie that is too short or too long.
• Do not wear a wingtip collar shirt with a jacket that is too casual.

Pros and Cons of Wingtip Collar Shirts

Pros:

• Wingtip collar shirts are versatile and can be dressed up or down for a variety of occasions.
• Wingtip collar shirts add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any outfit.
• Wingtip collar shirts can be tailored to flatter different face shapes, neck sizes, and body types.
• Wingtip collar shirts can be paired with a variety of accessories to create a personalized look.

Cons:

• Wingtip collar shirts can be more expensive than other types of shirts.
• Wingtip collar shirts require special care to keep the collar points in place.
• Wingtip collar shirts may not be appropriate for all occasions.

Conclusion

Wingtip collar shirts are a versatile and timeless wardrobe staple that can be worn for a variety of occasions. By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can choose, style, and wear a wingtip collar shirt with confidence and style.

Additional Information

Table 1: Types of Wingtip Collars

Table 2: Wingtip Collar Shirts for Different Occasions

Table 3: Accessories for Wingtip Collar Shirts

Table 4: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Wearing Wingtip Collar Shirts