How to recognise it
At the front two wide pieces meet in a V at the chest, where a bow is often tied. At the back the collar falls in a large square. The edges are often trimmed with stripes.
Where it comes from
The collar was part of the British naval uniform in the 19th century. In 1846 Franz Xaver Winterhalter's portrait of the young Prince Albert Edward in a sailor suit made the style popular in children's and later women's fashion.
Who and when it suits
Playful and retro, it appears on blouses, dresses and children's clothes. It suits summer and weekends.
Variations and look-alikes
It comes with one or more stripes, with or without a bow, large or smaller. A smaller version without the back square looks more modern. It differs from a Peter Pan collar in its front V and size.
How to style it
- Navy and white is the classic.
- Keep the other details simple.
- With a pleated skirt for a retro look.
- Tie the bow loosely.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01Where does the sailor collar come from?
From the 19th-century British naval uniform.
02Who suits a sailor collar?
People with narrow shoulders; the wide collar broadens them.
03Is a sailor collar suitable for adults?
Yes, on a blouse or dress in quiet colours.
04How do you wear a sailor collar in a modern way?
With plain jeans or wide trousers and no other nautical details.