How To Put on Collar Stays
Collar stays are a relatively new innovation, invented only in the 1950s, but they possess a quality of timeless sophistication. Adapted from earlier forms of collar supports from the 1920s, collar stays solve an age-old issue: keeping shirt collars looking sharp and in place. This simple yet effective accessory transforms unruly collars into crisp, polished ones and is a staple of a well-put-together look.
What Are Collar Stays?
Collar stays are two pieces of solid material inserted into the front portion of your collar on either side. There are gold collar stays, silver collar stays, and ones made of plastic, stainless steel, and brass. Only collared dress shirts can hold collar stays as they generally come with an insertion slit on the underside of either collar. Collar stays are flat, so you can easily insert them into the fabric.
Are you wondering, "Are collar stays necessary?" Yes, they are a practical choice to keep your collar looking neat, especially for formal or business settings. Collar stays work to anchor down your collar and provide a crisp shape, especially when you pair them with ties or collar pins, giving your look a polished finish.
How to Put on Collar Stays: Step-By-Step Guide
Collar stays are easy to use but insert the right end first. Each stay has a front and back — the narrow end should go in first. This helps it slide in smoothly and keeps the collar looking crisp. Choose the best collar stays that match your style — smooth metal or clear plastic stays to get the sharpest look from your collar.
Inserting Collar Stays
- Fold up both sides of your collar and locate the collar stay slits on the underside of the fabric.
- Once you've located the opening, grab one collar and gently guide the narrow end through the fabric.
- Push the collar forward to the front of the collar towards your chin. Make sure it's wholly inserted to avoid risking it falling out.
- Take your other collar, stay, and repeat on the other side of your collar.
- Fold down your collar and adjust it to where you'd like it to sit.
Removing Collar Stays
Removing collar stays is as simple as reversing the insertion process. Here's how to do it:
- Lift both sides of the collar to locate the collar stays.
- Gently grip the stay at the back end (the wider side) and slide it out from the collar slot.
- Repeat on the other side, storing your collars safely to avoid getting lost or bent.
How to Care for Collar Stays
To keep your collars in their best condition, always store them flat in a small case or designated spot to prevent bending. Metal stays benefit from a quick polish now and then to maintain their shine and avoid rust, while plastic stays should be replaced if they start to warp or lose shape.
Clean your metal occasionally to remove any buildup that might dull it and keep plastic ones dry to prevent discolouration or warping over time. These steps will keep your collar stays sharp and ready to use.
Removable Collar Stays vs. Sewn-In Collar Stays
With removable collar stays, you can swap between materials like plastic for everyday wear or metal for a sharper, more polished look. For even more control, try magnetic collar stays; these magnets hold the collar in place, keeping it looking crisp all day. Removable stays are ideal for dress shirts, adding a touch of flexibility to your style.
Conversely, sewn-in collar stays are built into the shirt, making them hassle-free for casual wear. Removable options are best for versatility, while sewn-in stays suit a low-maintenance approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you put on a collar stay?
To insert a collar, stay, lift the collar, locate the small pocket under each collar point, and slide the remainder in the narrow end first until fully secure.
How do you put on collar tabs?
Position the collar tab under your collar points, fastening both ends to hold the collar in place for a neat, elevated look.
How do I get my collar to stay down?
Use collar stays and magnetic stays to keep your collar down, or iron your collar with light starch for added stiffness.
How does wearing a magnetic collar stay?
Insert the magnetic collar into the pocket, then place the magnet under your shirt, aligning it with the stay to keep the collar firmly in place.
