In the neck of time

You could perhaps attribute it to the craze for preppy clothing that's sweeping the fashion world, but this season has conclusively proven that nothing works better with a monogrammed blazer and a pair of boat shoes than a shirt with a slim collar.

We shouldn't really be surprised: 'thin is in' everywhere these days. For starters, a paunch no longer means good living. It indicates slob. The slim fit has revolutionised jeans and trousers, and sleek, fitted shirts have replaced plus sizes. Skinny offerings have dispelled the notion of ties as purely formal attire. What was once regarded as nothing more than a trend has found permanent shelf space on the rack of style. The latest victim in the skinny line of attack, moving away from supersizing towards sleek cuts, is the collar.

Encompassing a myriad different styles-think penny collars, club collars, extra widespread collars, curved widespread collars and round point collars ranging between one and three inches in width-every inch makes a difference. Those of you who think that fashion is not an accurate science, you just might have to think again.

The slim collar isn't just good to look at. It can make you look good too. Not only can the right collar style accentuate your stance, it can also be just the thing to highlight that jawline. Pair it with a blazer and tie, layer it with a cardigan and muffler, snap on a necktie, throw on a hoodie or simply go with a casual open collar look. Here are some fresh and stylish looks for the season that'll come in handy whether you're lounging in your den or readying for a black-tie event.