Sep 20, 2012

Collar-ful Affair

Autumn has officially begun (in the fashion world but not the weather in Malaysia of course) but if you're not ready to discard one of your and my favourite spring 2012 trends which you stretched its wearability until summer, then don't.

Collars are unequivocally not the thing of the past; it's such a simple trend that it's recurring this autumn in a better, bigger and bolder way. This season, collars are not limited to Peter Pan style. They come in bold prints, colours and embellishments in various shapes, sizes and textures - and what better way to make a collar stand out than to contrast it with your outfit? After all, that's the purpose. Take cues from Derek Lam, Rodarte and Philip Lim on nailing this trend.

detachable collar malaysia
Photos by Marcio Madeira

Unconventional collars are novelty and certainly not understated as they make any outfit look polished, sophisticated and put together. Statement collars are not only visually appealing, they help frame the face and are easy to take a notch up your rather minimal ensemble. They're so easy that they take zero effort in making your outfit look anything but ordinary. They're like icing on a cake - not imperative but always admired. So, spice up your wardrobe in this season's fun and edgy trend with some of these frugal pieces.

sequin collar blouse
Daily Boutique; RM39 RM30; available in black and magenta
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round collar shirt
eBay; US$9.59/RM30; free worldwide delivery
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studded collar
Banilla Berry; RM30; available in pink, white and black
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peter pan collar blouse
eBay; US$9.79/RM30.50
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studded collar
Banilla Berry; RM35
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detachable collar malaysia
Daily Boutique; RM42 RM35
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peter pan collar blouse
Whitesoot; RM45; available in green and teal
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peter pan collar dress
Little Bits; RM45
Similar also available at Zalora
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zalora malaysia
Zalora; RM59 RM47.20; available in brown, blue and pink
Also available at Milktee
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studded collar
eBay; US$19.99/RM62; free worldwide delivery
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zalora malaysia
Zalora; RM82 RM65.60; available in orange, blue and white
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supermodel wardrobe
Supermodel Wardrobe; RM69
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If you're a little tight on cash to spend on tops and dresses that have fabulous collar details, you could always invest in detachable collars, collar necklaces and collar tips. Watch as these transformative pieces perform magic tricks on your sweaters, tops and dresses that you already have in your closet. Your wardrobe instantly expands as these ingenious pieces offer more wear to your clothes and save you big bucks in the long run. These alternatives are absolutely right up the alley of those who are skeptical of the contrasting collar trend.

detachable collar malaysia
eBay; US$7.99/ RM24.50; available in soft green, soft pink and 8 more colours; free worldwide delivery
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detachable collar malaysia
eBay; US$8.49/RM26.50; free worldwide delivery
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detachable collar malaysia
eBay; US$12.69/RM39
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collar necklace malaysia
eBay; US$7.29/ RM22.50; available in white and brown
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collar pin malaysia
eBay; US$3.50/RM11
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collar pin malaysia
eBay; US$3.99/RM12.50; available in 28 designs; free worldwide delivery
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collar pin malaysia
eBay; US$4.99/RM15.50
Also available at Luccacal
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collar pin malaysia
ASOS; RM18
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It would be ludicrous to put your talent to waste if you're super crafty and creative. Dive into your Edward Scissorhand mode and start making your own unique collars with intricate details if you must! It is super cheap to make one and you know you'll be the only person to walk down the streets wearing your masterpiece creation. This fancy and easy-to-wear accessory is certainly a gem in the wardrobe, so go crazy and make one too many collars.

P.S. Stay tuned for a DIY collar tutorial.


What do you think?
What are your thoughts on the contrasting collar trend? Would you try this trend or have you tried it? Which is your favourite piece? Have you made your own collar before? Share with me your DIY collar tutorial. If you know of other places to shop for affordable clothes with contrasting collars or detachable collars, do share with me.
Don't forget to leave a comment and tell me what you think!