Collars are important details worthy of careful sewing. A well-made collar circles your neck without rippling or pulling and keeps its neat appearance through repeated cleanings. Pointed tips should match. Edges should be smooth and flat.
Interfacing, usually cut from the collar pattern piece, adds shape, support, and stability. Most collar styles benefit from the slightly firm finish provided by fusible interfacings. Select the special crisp type of fusible interfacing suitable for men’s shirts if you are working with classic shirting fabrics such as oxford cloth or broadcloth. If your fabric is soft or delicate, like challis or crepe de chine, choose a lightweight fusible that bonds at low iron temperatures.
Convertible collar looks similar to the notched collar and lapels on a tailored blazer. The front facings fold back to form the lapels. This collar can be worn open or closed. The top button is usually omitted on casual wear.
Shirt collar with a stand comes from menswear traditions. There are two separate sections: the collar, and the stand between collar and neckline. In some patterns the stand is an extension of the collar section. This eliminates one seam and is faster to sew, but the sewing methods for both versions are similar. For a professional look, topstitch collar edges and stand seams close to the edge.
Standing collar may be shaped or cut double depth and folded along its length to form a self-facing.