Collars of the 1930s: From Practicality to Glamour

1 Nov

In essence, collars during this era went beyond mere function, symbolising a blend of femininity, social standing, and creative individuality.

The 1930s was a captivating period for fashion, particularly for women's collars, which became a defining feature of style during this decade. Collars were not only about framing the face but were a means of expressing elegance, femininity, and social standing. Let’s explore how collars shaped the essence of women’s fashion in the 1930s and why they became such a prominent feature during this era.

1. High Necklines and Grand Collars

In the early 1930s, high necklines and larger collars gained popularity, often extending outward and downward to the shoulders, creating a graceful, elongated effect. This style took inspiration from the Victorian era, marking a shift back to more conservative, structured styles after the liberating fashion of the 1920s. Such collars were frequently seen on day dresses and blouses, typically paired with cinched waistlines and bias-cut skirts that softly followed the body’s contours.

2. Peter Pan and Rounded Collars

The Peter Pan collar, a timeless classic, enjoyed a resurgence in the 1930s. Rounded and generally petite, this collar lent a delicate, youthful touch to dresses, especially in casual and daywear. These collars were often finished with modest embellishments like lace or ribbon trims, reinforcing the more conservative, refined aesthetic of the time. Blouses and frocks with Peter Pan collars were ideal for day-to-day wear, where femininity was conveyed through simplicity and understated detailing.

3. Pointed and Wing Collars

The pointed collar, a style echoing men’s shirting but softened for feminine wear, was another key feature. This sharp, angular collar was popular on formal and semi-formal blouses and dresses alike. Wing collars, which extended outward like wings around the neck, were similarly prominent, especially on cocktail dresses or evening wear. These collars framed the face gracefully, complementing the fitted bodices and broad-shouldered silhouette that became iconic of the 1930s.

4. Sailor and Nautical-Inspired Collars

The era’s penchant for travel and adventure brought forth the nautical-inspired trend, featuring sailor collars. These broad, square collars, often finished with contrasting trims, became a signature of women’s resort and summer wear. This look was casual yet sophisticated, reflecting the 1930s woman’s growing presence in the workforce and her expanding social roles.

5. Detachable Collars and Scarves

The economic challenges of the 1930s meant that practicality was a priority. Many dresses and blouses were designed with detachable collars, allowing women to vary their looks without purchasing entirely new outfits. Detachable collars, made from lace, linen, or embroidered cotton, offered versatility and a touch of elegance. Scarves, too, often acted as makeshift collars, tied into bows or draped to add flair to an otherwise modest neckline.

6. Decorative Elements and Embellishments

Collars during this decade were frequently embellished with lace trims, bows, and embroidery, highlighting the craftsmanship of the time. These details allowed for individuality within the constraints of modest fashion. Lace collars, especially, were a favoured means of elevating an outfit for formal occasions, lending a soft, decorative touch to necklines on dresses and blouses.

7. The Influence of Hollywood Glamour

Hollywood significantly influenced fashion in the 1930s, with stars like Greta Garbo and Joan Crawford setting trends. The popularity of wide, dramatic collars on evening gowns can be traced back to Hollywood’s glamour. These statement collars accentuated the shoulders and added sophistication, embodying the cinematic elegance of the time.

Why Collars Became Key in the 1930s

The emphasis on collars in 1930s fashion represented a significant departure from the simpler, relaxed styles of the previous decade, when collars were often minimal or absent, replaced by low necklines and straight lines. The social and economic climate of the 1930s, marked by the Great Depression, encouraged a return to elegance and restraint. Fashion adapted to these constraints, with collars providing a way to introduce refinement and sophistication in a modest and practical manner. Detachable collars allowed women to diversify their looks without the need for new garments, making collars both functional and stylish.

Furthermore, the influence of Hollywood glamour, paired with a revival of Victorian and Edwardian styles, brought tailored necklines and collars to the forefront. Collars framed the face and added structure to outfits, complementing the newly popular broad-shouldered look that emerged during this decade. By providing both decorative and structural value, collars became a defining feature of 1930s women’s fashion, allowing women to maintain individuality and elegance amidst economic limitations.

Conclusion: The Collar as a Statement of Elegance

In the 1930s, collars transcended mere functionality; they symbolised style, refinement, and social sensibility. From structured high necklines to gentle Peter Pan collars, these styles shaped the silhouette of 1930s women’s fashion, allowing women to express grace and poise. The evolution and variety of collars during this era reflect a blend of elegance, modesty, and an emerging sense of individuality in women’s fashion.