Collar pin

Collar pin is a small piece of men's accessory used to hold the two ends of a dress shirt collar together and passes underneath the knot of a necktie. Functioning by pushing the tie knot up and out, a collar pin adds a chic, polished look to a men's formal wear ensemble. It is considered a classic element in men's fashion, particularly popular during the early to mid-20th century, and has seen a resurgence in recent years among enthusiasts of vintage and dapper style.

Types of Collar Pins

There are primarily three types of collar pins: the barbell, the safety pin, and the collar bar. Each type serves the same purpose but differs slightly in design and how it is worn.

• Barbell Collar Pin: This type resembles a small barbell with a decorative end on each side. The ends unscrew, allowing the pin to be inserted through specially made holes in each collar point.
• Safety Pin Collar Pin: This variant is designed like a traditional safety pin but is more refined and often made of precious metals. It is used to clip the collar points together.
• Collar Bar: A collar bar has a solid bar with a fixed decorative end and another end that unscrews. Unlike the barbell pin, a collar bar goes through the shirt collar's fabric, requiring shirts with pre-made holes.

Usage

The primary function of a collar pin is to bring the collar points together, giving the necktie more prominence and providing a more put-together appearance. By elevating the tie knot, it creates a more defined dimple beneath the knot, which is often seen as a sign of sophistication in men's fashion.

Fashion and Styling

Collar pins are most commonly used with dress shirts that have a pin collar, but they can also be adapted to work with more traditional point collars or even spread collars, provided the collar is not too wide. They are best paired with ties made of thinner materials to avoid bulging and to allow the pin to hold the collar securely without straining the fabric.

Cultural Significance

The collar pin has fluctuated in popularity over the years but remains a symbol of classic style and elegance in men's fashion. It is often associated with the fashion of the 1920s and 1930s, a period known for its attention to detail and formal dressing standards. In contemporary fashion, the collar pin is embraced by individuals looking to add a vintage or formal touch to their attire.

See Also

• Necktie
• Men's Fashion
• Dress Shirt
• Vintage Clothing

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