What is an Apache collar?
Apache collar An apache is a wide, turn-down collar with large lapels, originally cut to be worn unbuttoned, creating a deep V-neck. The name comes from the French word "apache," which was the name given to Parisian hooligans in the early 20th century who wore their shirts unbuttoned in protest against formal ties and tight collars.
Historically a staple of men's clothing, this cut is actively used in women's clothing in modern fashion. It's used in blouses, summer dresses, jackets, and light coats to create a silhouette with an emphasis on relaxed elegance.
Distinctive features
The main feature of the apache collar is its deep V-neck, which visually elongates the neck and accentuates the décolleté. Wide lapels hang loosely across the chest and shoulders, often having a soft, non-rigid shape without dense fabric reinforcement.
This collar is distinguished by its lack of a top button. Some models have a buttonhole, but it's positioned so low that it's physically impossible to fasten the collar under the neck. It's often made in one piece, along with the collar panel, ensuring a seamless transition from the front to the collar without any additional seams.
What to combine with
Blouses with apache collars pair beautifully with high-waisted palazzo pants or straight-leg jeans, creating a smart-casual look. For layered, retro-inspired ensembles, pair a lapels with this collar under a V-neck cardigan or a soft blazer. In this case, the wide lapels are worn over the top layer.
Summer dresses with this neckline are best paired with minimalist jewelry, such as thin chains or small pendants. The collar itself is a strong accent in the portrait area, so chunky necklaces overwhelm the look.
A coat with an apache collar calls for an open neck or smooth, fine-knit turtlenecks. Bulky, textured scarves clash with wide, notched lapels and disrupt the geometry of the neckline.
