Collar scheme

Now that winter is knocking, collars are making a stylish cut for the fashionably creative this year.

First impression counts and Valentino's qualified for a breathtaking sight. The fashion house chose shift dresses in black, blue and red to accompany white lace collars. J Crew kept things sharp edged and high on the collar front at the New York Fashion Week for the A/W 2013 look. Worthy of attention, just like its designer, are the high collar tops in dual tones by Victoria Beckham. And Ralph Lauren has designs on high-neck pussy bow shirts.

Designer duo Pankaj and Nidhi have set their eyes on high collars this season. They say, “Winters look ideal for a collar collaboration, and this year high collars are a trend favourite. Just raise it enough to cover the neck it enough to cover the neck and carry it with elan."

Nidhi points to one of their latest creations, “The storm collar on a tail hem dress counts among our favourite styles at the moment. We say, go for high collars because they look elegant while allowing you to practice minimalism vis-a-vis embellishments and accessories. They fit the evening wear look, hands in gloves."

Designer Shivani Singh gives the high collar her vote, and says, “They are set to rule the scene. After a few seasons of tiny collars and then the Peter Pan collar, this season belongs to high collars. And, the best part is, high collars are dominating the runways as well as high street fashion. Flaunt them on shirts, shirt-dresses and as a separate bejewelled accessory. While they go well with all fabrics, lace makes things elegance personified. For some snazzy effect, Swarovski crystals, sequins, beads are most welcome. A statement neck piece over the high collar qualifies for a very modern chic look."

Whereas, designer Pawan Sachdewa likes to go by the “bigger the better" rule. “Every year high collars inevitably show up. Bring in an element of embroidery to make it the perfect party headturner. High collar coats can make you look very classy. On fashion's repeat value, turtle and polo necks on wool and tweed are ideal for the season," stresses the designer.

“For some stunning design inspiration, let the collar of the silhouette reach high limits while the hemline takes a long shot. And jewelled high collar is the toast of the season. Flaunt it in deep rich tones and remain completely accessory free," suggests Pawan. Designer Kritika Dawar is also voting for a grand high collar entry. Exploring the style, she says, “The trend would be to contemporise traditional techniques and silhouettes. Pair jackets with sultry saris, simple handloom saree with high collared, full sleeve blouse and a statement neck piece looks very elegant. Pair collared peplum jackets with jodhpurs."

“Another good option is mandarin collared quilted jackets in winter shades of red, teal and purple. Pair them with cigarette pants, shift dresses, tunics in chanderis and matka silk. Velvet bandgalas or gold jackets worn with narrow pants is always a classic combination," she recommends.