Distinguishing Between Point Collar & Spread Collar

Key Difference – Point Collar vs Spread Collar

Collar selection is important for men’s shirts as it enhances facial features. Point collar and spread collar are two traditional dress shirt options and are among the most popular collar styles. The collar points on both styles have the same length. The key difference between point collar and spread collar is that point collar has a narrow distance between the collar points, approximately 3” apart from one another, while spread collar has a wider distance between the collar points, approximately 5” apart from one another.

What is Point Collar?

Point collar is a classic collar style where the collar points are approximately 3” apart from one another, creating a narrow distance between the collar points. Point collar is more suitable for rounder face shapes as it helps create the illusion of a slimmer face. Due to the limited space between the collar points, there is less room for a wider tie knot. The Four-in-Hand tie knot is a better complement to this collar style because of its long, narrow shape.

What is Spread Collar?

Spread collar has a wider distance between the collar points, approximately 5” apart from one another, making it a relatively modern collar style compared to point collar. This collar style is more suitable for men with an angular face shape and a narrow chin, as it can visually widen the wearer’s face. The Full Windsor or Double Windsor tie knot is appropriate for this collar style, as it has a wider triangular knot that accommodates the wide space between collar points.

A variation of the spread collar, called the semi-spread collar, is also available. In this style, the distance between collar points is narrower than that of spread collar but wider than that of the point collar. The Half Windsor tie suits the semi-spread collar, making this collar style ideal for men with oval-shaped faces.

Similarities between Point Collar and Spread Collar

• Both point collar and spread collar have the same collar band height and same collar point length.
• Both point collar and spread collar are made using a firm interlining.

Difference between Point Collar and Spread Collar

In point collar, the collar points are approximately 3” apart, creating a narrow distance between them, while in spread collar, the collar points are approximately 5” apart, creating a wider distance between them. Point collar is more suitable for round face shapes, while spread collar is more suitable for angular face shapes. The Four-in-Hand tie knot complements the point collar, while the Full Windsor or Double Windsor tie knot is appropriate with the spread collar.

Summary – Point Collar vs Spread Collar

The main difference between point collar and spread collar lies in the distance between the collar points. A collar style with a limited spread is called a point collar, while a spread collar has a wider spread. The suitable collar style can be chosen according to the face shape to enhance facial features. Tie knots should also be selected based on the collar style to present an appealing look.