Shirt Anatomy: From Yoke to Placket

Do you know what a Yoke is? If you do, you are already a step ahead. While this might be a refresh for some, it's important for you to understand these terms in order to articulate with confidence and sophistication. Because when a well-fitted shirt lands on your wishlist, you will be well-equipped to make an informed decision.

Today, we are highlighting some of the trickiest terms, let's get started:

COLLAR STAND VS COLLAR

Collar stand or collar band is the band of fabric that wraps around your neck and secured by a button at the end.  This is where your shirt's neck measurement is measured. 

Collar, on the other hand, is another piece of fabric that is attached to a collar stand/band to create a certain shape that frames your face.  Collars can come in different shapes and angles, from your typical spread collar to a button down collar. Shirts without a collar is usually called Band Collar/Mandarin Collar/Collarless Shirt, why?  Because the shirt only comes with a collar BAND but no collar, hence BAND collar, get it? 

PLACKET

Placket is an opening that makes it easier for you to put on a piece of clothing. It usually comes with buttons and buttonholes to help secure the opening in place. On a shirt, you can find plackets in the front as well as the end of the sleeves opening. 

GAUNTLET 

Gauntlet refers to the placket construction on both sides of the arm cuff area.  They provide durability and ease to the sleeves, making it easier to get your shirt on and off. 

YOKE

A yoke is a piece of fabric that drapes over the shoulder. It helps make the front and back pieces of the fabric hang straight, while giving a good structure to the shoulder.  

DARTS

When darts are used in the back of the shirt, they usually come in a form of double darts.  These two straight lines are created by folding the fabric inwards, then stitched. The back darts will help the fabric to follow the contour of your back, making the back of your shirts not billowy or baggy. You can always remove the back darts to allow more room for you if you happen to gain extra pounds in the future. 

We hope you have learned a couple terms about your shirt today. Until then, Stay Stylish!