High collars

Definition

High collars are a distinctive feature of Victorian fashion, characterized by their tall, structured design that extends above the neckline. These collars were often seen in both men's and women's clothing during the Victorian Era, particularly as a result of changing social norms and ideals of modesty stemming from the Industrial Revolution. High collars symbolized not only elegance but also a form of moral propriety, as they were associated with respectability and virtue in the context of societal expectations of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. High collars were particularly prominent in women's fashion, reaching their height of popularity in the 1860s and 1870s, often paired with elaborate dresses.
2. Men's shirts and suits featured high collars as well, with styles like the 'wing collar' or 'standing collar' becoming fashionable for formal occasions.
3. The use of high collars was also influenced by the Victorian ideals of modesty and femininity, with women’s high collars serving to convey a sense of propriety and decency.
4. High collars were often adorned with lace, embroidery, or other decorative elements to add an element of sophistication and detail to garments.
5. As fashion evolved into the late 19th century, high collars began to decline in popularity, making way for lower-cut designs that reflected changing attitudes toward dress and self-expression.

Review Questions

• How did high collars reflect the social values and norms of the Victorian Era?
  • High collars were a direct reflection of Victorian social values emphasizing modesty and respectability. They conveyed a sense of propriety and virtue, aligning with the moral expectations placed on individuals during this period. The rise of high collars coincided with the Industrial Revolution, where societal shifts demanded a visual representation of decorum in fashion, especially for women who were expected to embody these ideals through their attire.
• Discuss the evolution of high collars in relation to changes in Victorian fashion trends over time.
  • Initially popular in the mid-19th century, high collars became more elaborate and structured as fashion trends evolved. By the 1860s and 1870s, they featured intricate designs and embellishments that showcased wealth and sophistication. However, as the century progressed and attitudes toward fashion began to change, particularly towards more relaxed styles in the late 19th century, high collars fell out of favor. This evolution mirrored broader shifts in societal attitudes towards gender roles and personal expression.
• Evaluate how high collars can be seen as both a fashion statement and a reflection of social hierarchy during the Victorian Era.
  • High collars functioned as both a fashion statement and an indicator of social hierarchy within Victorian society. Their prominence in attire represented not just individual style but also class distinctions; wealthier individuals could afford more elaborate fabrics and decorations. Furthermore, high collars communicated conformity to societal expectations of respectability. Those who adopted this trend were often seen as adhering to middle-class values, while those who eschewed such garments may have been perceived as challenging or disregarding established norms. Thus, high collars encapsulated the dual role of fashion as both personal expression and a reflection of social stratification.

Related terms

Bodice: The fitted upper part of a dress or top that covers the torso, often featuring high collars to create a defined silhouette.

Crinoline: A stiffened or structured fabric used to hold out skirts, which became popular alongside high collars in the mid-19th century.

Dandy: A man who places particular importance on physical appearance, refined language, and leisurely hobbies, often associated with wearing high collars to enhance their stylish image.