Early in the century, shirt collars had the bad habit of rolling up as you wore them. One solution was to pin a safety pin underneath the tie knot, pinning the collars down and propping the up the knot.

Like other tie accessories, such as tie clips, the collar pin has utilitarian origins. Similar to other tie accessories, it became a fashion statement in the 30s, thanks to the focus it puts on the tie knot (see Frank Sinatra.) And, much like other tie accessories, it experienced times of popularity in the 50s, (see Roger Sterling from Mad Men) and 80s (See Gordon Gekko, from Wall Street.)

I think it’s too early to declare whether this particular shirt jewelry will experience as resurgence similar to the tie clips, but it’s not too early to hope.

As written by Gentleman’s Gazette, there are three kinds of collar pins. The first is just a safety pin. This is a little rakish if visible, ie, worn on the very edge of your collar. However, it’s the most common style, if snug up against the knot.

The second kind has little clips on the edge which grab the collar. This is the moderate choice.

The third looks like a dumbbell. This is the most formal option, and not recommended by me. Why? Because it requires a special shirt with little holes in the collar, that the pin threads through. Why limit the collar pin look to one shirt? Plus, that one shirt will be a little difficult to track down.

Should you choose to wear one of these, it forms a nice crease on your collar and accentuates your tie. You’ll be advised to wear a small knot and preferably a small collar, like the rounded club collar. I think a spread collar and a Windsor knot might be too bold.  But since I’ve never seen it tried, I guess that’s my homework tonight. Opinions?

Safety pin photo credit: Put This On

Frank Sinatra photo credit: A Suitable Wardrobe

Roger Sterling photo credit: Components of Enthusiasm

Wall Street photo credit: IMDB

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August 20th, 2010 by Michael in Other Neckwear | Permalink