How to Wear a Neck Collar: A Style Guide

How to Wear a Neck Collar: A Style Guide

Oct 13, 2026Sumie Tachibana

A neck collar is a detachable piece of neckwear that sits around the base of the neck, inspired by Victorian capelets. It adds structure, texture and a little drama to an outfit without changing the rest of what you are wearing. Every collar in the Sumie Tachibana neck collar collection is handmade, and most are one of a kind.

How do you wear a neck collar?

Layer it over something simple. A plain black top, a fitted tee or a crisp shirt lets the collar be the focus. It also works over a dress, a knit or the open neckline of a jacket or coat, where it frames the neck and adds detail where a scarf might be too bulky.

Black floral burnout neck collar worn with a black corset by Sumie Tachibana

What should you wear it with?

  • A plain fitted top: keeps attention on the fabric, such as lace, velvet or burnout.
  • A collarless blouse or shirt: contrast between a soft shirt and a structured collar looks deliberate and polished.
  • A dress: a collar can turn a simple dress into an avant-garde outfit.
  • Outerwear: wear it over a buttoned up blazer or jacket so the collar rests above the outerwear.

Black and silver quilted velvet neck collar worn over a tailored black jacket

Black lace neck collar worn with a pleated black dress

How do neck collars fit and close?

Our collars are one size. Most close with a snap at the center back, and some tie at the back for an adjustable fit. The snap-closure collars have a 19 inch neck opening, and the shoulder width, measured seam to seam without ruffles, is 13.5 or 15 inches depending on the style. The exact measurements are listed on each product page.

What are neck collars made of?

Materials vary by design, including guipure lace, quilted velvet, floral burnout, snake print wool and cloque, often with silk or lambskin details. Each product page lists the fabrics for that piece.

How do you care for a neck collar?

Dry clean only, or hand spot clean with room temperature water and clear or white soap.

Where can you find them?

Browse the full neck collar collection. Because most designs are one of a kind, a piece may not return once it sells out.



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