The spelling of the word "mandarin collar" is straightforward once you understand the pronunciation. This style of collar takes its name from the traditional dress of Chinese officials, which had a high-collared, button-up design. The word "mandarin" is pronounced /ˈmændərɪn/ with stress on the first syllable and an unstressed final syllable. The spelling reflects the standard English pronunciation, which uses the letters "a" and "i" to represent the sounds of "æ" and "ɪ" respectively. When saying "mandarin collar" aloud, remember to stress the first syllable for clarity.
The Mandarin collar is a term used to describe a high-standing collar style commonly found in traditional Asian clothing. Named after the Mandarin officials in ancient China who regularly donned this style, the Mandarin collar is characterized by its upright, narrow and straight shape that encircles the neck without any fold or lapels. It is typically short and stands vertically from the garment's neckline, following the curve of the neck without extending onto the shoulders, leaving the collarbone and upper chest area exposed.
This collar style is often seen in traditional Chinese garments like the cheongsam or qipao, as well as in other Asian attires like the hanbok of Korea or the kimono of Japan. In recent years, the Mandarin collar has also become popular in Western fashion, with designers incorporating it into modern designs for shirts, dresses, jackets, and blouses.
The Mandarin collar can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Functionally, it serves to protect the neck from external elements such as wind or sun, making it suitable for various weather conditions. Aesthetically, it adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to an outfit, giving it a unique and distinctive appearance. The collar can be found in a variety of fabric types, textures, and colors, offering versatility in design and versatility in attire options, whether for traditional or contemporary attire.
The etymology of the word "mandarin collar" can be traced back to the Mandarin officials of imperial China. The term "mandarin" referred to the highly ranked and influential officials who served in the Chinese government during the Ming and Qing dynasties. These officials were known for their distinctive clothing, which included a collar that stood upright and closed at the neck with a button or a loop. Over time, this style of collar became associated with the Mandarin officials, and the term "mandarin collar" came to be used to describe clothing with a similar style of collar. Today, the term is commonly used to describe a short, upright collar that doesn't fold over, typically seen in traditional Chinese clothing and various modern fashion styles.