Understanding the importance of selecting the right collar for your jacket is more significant than you might realise. When it comes to choosing the appropriate collar for your suit or blazer, it’s crucial to take into account various factors, such as the occasion, your personal style, and how the collar complements your body type. Here’s an insightful guide to help you navigate through the different types of collars and their rich history.
Beyond selecting the collar type for your Made to Measure jacket from Gangotra 1916, you can also customise the width of each collar and choose a contrasting fabric for the lapel or top collar. This not only showcases your personal taste but also enables you to achieve a unique look tailored specifically to you.



The Notch Lapel
The Notch Lapel is the most common collar style on men’s tailored jackets. Characterised by a small cut out or “notch” where the collar meets the lapel, this versatile collar works well for both business and casual attire. The Notch Lapel is typically found on most single breasted suits and blazers.
The notch lapel has quite an interesting history. It originated from older types of jackets that buttoned all the way up to the neck. In warmer weather or indoors, people would unbutton the jacket and turn back the upper part of the closure at an angle, creating the notch lapel style. This practical solution evolved into a fashionable design over time.
The Notch Lapel became particularly popular in the early 20th century, especially during the 1920s, when it virtually replaced the shawl collar option for tuxedos. Its versatility and practicality has made the Notch Lapel a firm favourite for jackets worn for business or pleasure.



The Peak Lapel
A more formal option, the Peak Lapel has pointed edges that face upwards, creating a sharp, elegant look. This type of collar is often found on double breasted suits, tuxedos, and more formal single breasted jackets. The Peak Lapel always adds a sense of power and sophistication on any jacket.
The Peak Lapel has a rich history when it comes to men’s fashion. It first gained popularity in the late 1920s and 1930s, when it was considered a very stylish design for single breasted jackets. The peak lapel’s distinctive upward pointing edges added a sense of elegance and formality to both suits and tuxedos.
During the 1970s, the Peak Lapel again saw a resurgence in popularity, often paired with wider ties and bold fashion choices. It became a staple in both formal and business attire, symbolising power and sophistication in its time.
In most recent years, the Peak Lapel has made quite a comeback as part of the renewed interest in classic tailoring. Today, it’s a versatile choice that can be found on both structured business suits and more casual jackets, offering a touch of elegance and flair to any outfit.



The Shawl Collar
The Shawl Collar, commonly found on tuxedos and dinner jackets, is known for its distinctive smooth, rounded edge. It is less formal than a Peak Lapel but more elegant than a Notch Lapel, making it the perfect choice for black tie events or special occasions.
The Shawl Collar has an interesting history that dates back to the Victorian era. Originally, this collar was featured on smoking jackets worn by men after dinner to prevent the smoke from spoiling their formal dinner jackets. These smoking jackets were often made of velvet or silk and had a rounded, continuous lapel that became known as the Shawl Collar.
Over time, the Shawl Collar then migrated to other types of jackets, especially the tuxedo and soon became a staple collar shape for formal evening wear. It’s elegant, rounded shape adds a touch of sophistication and class, making it a firm favourite for evening attire.
The Shawl Collar has gained further popularity thanks to iconic figures like James Bond and Steve McQueen, who have both showcased this style in their classic looks. Today, it continues to be a timeless choice for men seeking a beautifully Made to Measure tuxedo or dinner jacket from Gangotra 1916 for any formal occasion.