Round Collar shirt | Round Pin collar shirt | Eton collar shirt

**Title: The Ultimate Guide to Collar Styles: Round Collar, Round Pin Collar, and Eton Collar Shirts**

In the world of men’s fashion, the collar of a shirt is one of the most defining elements, giving character to the entire outfit. While classic collar styles like the pointed collar or button-down collar are widely popular, unique styles such as the round collar, round pin collar, and Eton collar offer a fresh, refined look that’s both timeless and stylish. In this guide, we’ll explore each of these collar types, discussing their history, characteristics, styling tips, and the occasions best suited for each. Whether you’re looking to enhance your wardrobe or simply curious about these styles, this blog will offer you valuable insights.

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### The Round Collar Shirt: A Classic with a Soft Touch

**What is a Round Collar Shirt?**

A round collar shirt, sometimes referred to as a “club collar,” is characterized by its rounded edges instead of the more common pointed tips. Originating in the late 19th century, the rounded collar became popular as a softer, less formal look compared to traditional collars. The style was originally worn by students at Eton College in England, which gave the collar an association with sophistication and class. Over time, this collar style has come to represent a refined yet approachable aesthetic.

**Historical Background of the Round Collar**

The rounded collar has deep historical roots. When Eton College adopted this style as part of their uniform, it quickly became associated with the English elite. By the 1920s and 1930s, the round collar was seen on Hollywood actors and musicians, adding a sense of glamour and sophistication. Although it became less common in the latter half of the 20th century, the collar style saw a resurgence in the 2010s as vintage-inspired looks gained popularity.

**Styling a Round Collar Shirt**

The round collar shirt is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Its rounded edges soften the overall look, making it ideal for smart-casual outfits or business casual attire. Here are some tips for styling a round collar shirt:

1. **Business Casual**: Pair a white or light blue round collar shirt with a dark blazer and chinos. The rounded collar adds an unexpected twist to a classic business casual ensemble.

   

2. **Weekend Look**: For a laid-back yet polished look, wear a round collar shirt with jeans or chinos and leave the top button undone. This look works especially well with lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen.

   

3. **Under a Sweater**: The round collar shirt is perfect for layering. Try it under a V-neck sweater, letting the collar peek out for a touch of sophistication.

**When to Wear a Round Collar Shirt**

Round collar shirts are suitable for various occasions, from casual gatherings to semi-formal events. They may not fit strict business dress codes due to their distinctive, slightly informal style, but they’re perfect for cocktail parties, weekend outings, and date nights. This collar style suits those who want a refined look without appearing overly formal.

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### The Round Pin Collar Shirt: A Nod to Vintage Elegance

**What is a Round Pin Collar Shirt?**

The round pin collar shirt is a unique variant of the traditional round collar shirt, enhanced with a pin that holds the collar points in place. The pin, typically a bar or clasp, sits horizontally beneath the knot of a tie, adding a subtle yet stylish detail. This accessory not only keeps the collar points close together but also lifts the tie knot slightly, giving it a prominent, refined appearance.

**Historical Background of the Round Pin Collar**

The round pin collar gained popularity during the early 20th century, especially in the 1920s and 1930s, when men’s fashion leaned toward structured, detail-oriented styles. Seen as a mark of sophistication, the collar pin became a staple accessory for gentlemen, particularly in the context of formal wear. Hollywood stars like Cary Grant and Fred Astaire often wore pin collars, giving this look a timeless appeal.

**Styling a Round Pin Collar Shirt**

The round pin collar shirt is more formal than its unpinned counterpart and is often best suited for dressy occasions. It pairs excellently with a suit and tie, and the collar pin adds a unique element that draws attention to the tie knot. Here’s how to style it:

1. **With a Classic Suit**: Wear a round pin collar shirt with a fitted suit and a tie. The pin lifts the tie knot, giving it a crisp and polished look, which is ideal for formal events and business settings.

   

2. **Vintage-Inspired Look**: Lean into the vintage charm by pairing a round pin collar shirt with a double-breasted suit. Choose fabrics like tweed or herringbone for an authentic retro vibe.

   

3. **Accessorize Thoughtfully**: The collar pin is already a statement accessory, so keep other accessories minimal. A classic wristwatch or cufflinks will complete the look without overpowering it.

**When to Wear a Round Pin Collar Shirt**

This style is ideal for formal occasions where you want to make a statement with subtle sophistication. Events like weddings, black-tie dinners, and business meetings are perfect for a round pin collar shirt. The pin adds a distinctive flair, making it a go-to choice for those who appreciate the finer details in fashion.

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### The Eton Collar Shirt: A Timeless Blend of Style and Tradition

**What is an Eton Collar Shirt?**

The Eton collar shirt features a distinctively high, starched collar with broad points that often sit slightly outward. This collar style takes its name from Eton College, where it became part of the school uniform and a symbol of British aristocratic style. Unlike the softer round collar, the Eton collar is more structured and formal, offering a bold yet classic look.

**Historical Background of the Eton Collar**

The Eton collar dates back to the early 19th century and was initially worn as part of the school uniform at Eton College. Over time, the collar style became a symbol of the British elite and spread to mainstream fashion as a mark of sophistication. In the 1930s, it became particularly popular among young men, symbolizing an upper-class heritage. Today, it’s a collar style that speaks to tradition and elegance, with a touch of British heritage.

**Styling an Eton Collar Shirt**

The Eton collar is formal by nature, and it pairs best with structured outfits. Here are a few ways to style it:

1. **Traditional Formalwear**: For a classic look, wear an Eton collar shirt with a tuxedo or a three-piece suit. The collar’s high structure complements a formal outfit beautifully.

   

2. **Preppy Style**: Embrace the collar’s academic roots by pairing it with a tailored blazer and fitted trousers. This look works well for semi-formal occasions and exudes a preppy charm.

   

3. **Standalone Statement**: An Eton collar shirt in a solid color can be worn without a tie for a unique look. The collar itself is a statement piece, so minimal accessories and simple styling are best.

**When to Wear an Eton Collar Shirt**

An Eton collar shirt is suitable for formal and semi-formal occasions where a sense of tradition and elegance is appreciated. It’s an excellent choice for weddings, galas, or formal dinners, especially for those who want to add a touch of historical style to their attire. Due to its high structure, it may not be ideal for casual settings, but it shines in settings that call for classic sophistication.

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### Choosing the Right Collar Style for Your Wardrobe

With so many collar styles available, deciding which ones to add to your wardrobe can be challenging. Here are some factors to consider:

1. **Face Shape**: Round collar shirts tend to soften angular face shapes, while Eton collars can add structure to rounder face shapes. Pin collars draw attention to the face, particularly the area around the tie knot, making them great for those with longer face shapes.

   

2. **Occasion**: For formal settings, round pin collars and Eton collars are ideal, while standard round collars can transition more easily into casual settings.

   

3. **Personal Style**: If you enjoy vintage-inspired fashion, the round collar and pin collar styles offer a nostalgic flair, whereas the Eton collar offers a more traditional look.

### Final Thoughts

Each of these collar styles brings a distinct personality to an outfit, whether it’s the subtle charm of a round collar, the vintage elegance of a round pin collar, or the timeless sophistication of an Eton collar. Incorporating these styles into your wardrobe allows for versatility and the ability to tailor your look to different occasions.