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Clerical collar
Clerical collar
from Wikipedia
Church of Sweden Lutheran priest Sven-Erik Brodd [sv] wearing a clerical shirt with a "tab collar".
An Anglican military chaplain wearing a "dog collar" (full collar) during World War I

A clerical collar, Roman collar, clergy collar, or, informally, dog collar,[1][2][3] is an item of Christian clerical clothing.[4]

Overview

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The clerical collar is almost always white and was originally made of cotton or linen but is now frequently made of plastic. There are various styles of clerical collar. The traditional full collar (the style informally described as a dog collar) is a ring that closes at the back of the neck, presenting a seamless front. It is often attached with a collaret or collarino that covers the white collar almost completely, except for a small white rectangle at the base of the throat, and sometimes with the top edge of the collar exposed to mimic the collar of a cassock. Alternatively, it may simply be a detachable tab of white in the front of the clerical shirt. The clerical shirt is traditionally black (or another color appropriate to a person's ministry rank, such as purple for Anglican bishops), but today is available in a variety of colors depending on the wearer's preference. When clergy are delivering sermons, they sometimes attach preaching bands to their clerical collar.

History

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According to the Church of England's Enquiry Centre (citing the Glasgow Herald of December 6, 1894),[5] the detachable clerical collar was invented in 1865 by the Rev. Donald McLeod, a Church of Scotland (Presbyterian) minister in Glasgow.[6][7][8]

By 1840, Anglican clergy developed a sense of separation between themselves and the secular world.[9] One outward symbol of this was the adoption of distinctive clerical dress.[9] This had started with the black coat and white necktie which had been worn for some decades.[9] By the 1880s this had been transmuted into the clerical collar, which was worn almost constantly by the majority of clergy for the rest of the period.[9]

Henry McCloud stated that the collar "was nothing else than the shirt collar turned down over the cleric's everyday common dress in compliance with a fashion that began toward the end of the sixteenth century. For when the laity began to turn down their collars, the clergy also took up the mode."[10] Invented in the Presbyterian Church, the clerical collar was quickly adopted by other Christian denominations, including the Anglican Church, and subsequently by Methodist churches, Baptist churches, Catholic churches and the Lutheran churches.[7][4] It was mandatory for U.S. Catholic priests starting in 1884.[11] In the 1960s, many clergy who lived in countries where Catholicism was the dominant religion also began to wear the clerical collar rather than the soutane or cassock.

In the Reformed tradition, which stresses preaching as a central concern, pastors often don preaching tabs, which project from their clerical collar.[12] Preaching bands (an alternative name for tabs) are also worn by Anglican clergy, particularly on occasions such as inductions when choir dress of cassock, surplice, preaching scarf and the academic hood pertaining to degree is worn, as well as at Mattins and Evensong. Methodist and Lutheran clergy also sometimes attach preaching bands to their clerical collars.

In the United Kingdom (and other British-influenced countries, such as Canada), full clerical collars have been informally referred to as "dog collars"[2][13] since the mid-nineteenth century.[14] The term Roman collar is equivalent to "clerical collar" and does not necessarily mean that the wearer is Roman Catholic.[15]

In the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century, non-Christian clergy, such as some Jewish rabbis in England (such as Rabbi Abraham Cohen, the editor of the Soncino Books of the Bible) would also wear clerical collars.[citation needed]

During the 1950s the Reverend Alec Vidler began to advocate the abolition of the clerical collar in favour of a black shirt and white tie, but whilst some clergy adopted this mode of dress it did not become widespread.[16]

Non-ordained church leaders are usually not entitled to use the traditional clerical collar with a different color to the clerical shirt, but in some denominations are beginning to using the same design shirt and collar as ordained priests, but with matching clerical shirt and collar (i.e. black shirt with black collar, white shirt with white collar, purple shirt with purple collar).[citation needed]

Use by denomination

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A plastic clerical collar

Catholicism

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In the Catholic Church, the clerical collar is worn by most ranks of clergy, thus the Pope, bishops, priests, and often by seminarians as well as with their cassock during liturgical celebrations. It is not common for permanent deacons however.

Eastern Orthodox

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Among the Eastern Catholic Churches and Eastern Orthodox Church a band collarette with no "notch" in front may be worn by seminarians, although the norm is still a standard clerical collar. However, as the cassock is more commonly, if not mandatorily, worn to classes, often a plain white shirt will suffice, or a band collar with no collarette. Slavic cassocks button to the side, and thus a collar is often pointless, whereas a Greek cassock buttons to the front and has a higher collar, so the collar prevents chafing—as was its original function under a cassock. Eastern deacons and sometimes subdeacons, but rarely readers or other minor clerics, also wear a clerical collar, with subdeacons and readers often having a style with no notch, or a tab shirt with no tab. Most Orthodox clerics do not wear a clerical collar; those who do are usually to be found in Western Europe or North America.

Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian, Lutheran

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Collars are typically worn by clergy of other groups such as those of the Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian and Lutheran traditions, although many Danish and some Norwegian Lutheran clergy wear the ruff instead.[17]

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See also

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Footnotes

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
A clerical collar, also known as the Roman collar, is a distinctive narrow, white, stiff collar that fastens around the neck and is worn by Christian clergy as a visible emblem of their ordained status and commitment to ministry. Typically detachable and made of cotton, linen, or plastic, it attaches to a specialized clerical shirt via studs or buttons, creating a seamless front appearance while allowing the back to fasten securely. The clerical collar serves as a practical yet symbolic garment across various Christian denominations, including Roman Catholic, Anglican, Lutheran, Presbyterian, and Methodist traditions, where it identifies the wearer as a representative of the Church available for pastoral duties. In the Roman Catholic Church, Canon 284 requires clerics to wear suitable ecclesiastical garb according to the norms of the episcopal conference and local custom. For instance, in the United States, this typically includes the Roman collar with a black suit for priests outside liturgical functions, with the cassock as an option; it is also worn by bishops, deacons, and seminarians. Among Anglicans and Protestants, its adoption surged in the 19th century through movements like the Oxford Movement, which emphasized ritual and clerical distinctiveness, evolving from earlier neckwear such as preaching bands or white cravats dating to the 17th century. The modern clerical collar originated in the late , credited to the Reverend Dr. Donald McLeod, a Scottish Reformed Presbyterian minister, who developed it around the as an evolution of the white for more formal and identifiable clerical dress. Its symbolism underscores consecration to God, akin to a denoting spousal fidelity, while promoting priestly availability for sacraments, inspiring holiness in others, and guarding against secular misconceptions about the cleric's role. Like a , it publicly affirms the wearer's responsibilities and fosters a sense of yoking to Christ's service, though its mandatory use varies by denomination and context.

Design and Variations

Physical Description

The clerical collar is a narrow, stiff, white band that fully encircles the neck, distinguishing it as a key element of clerical attire. It is typically constructed as a detachable piece designed to attach to a specialized featuring a reinforced neckband with buttonholes or stud slots. For the full Roman collar style, the front forms a seamless closure when paired with the shirt's straight band opening. In contrast, tab collar variants feature a with a V-shaped opening at the , into which a separate rectangular tab insert fits for added support and visibility. This design ensures a clean, uniform appearance around the neckline. Standard dimensions include a height of 1 to 1.5 inches, providing a balanced proportion that emphasizes formality without overwhelming the wearer; the overall length corresponds to neck sizes ranging from 13.5 to 22 inches, with the band itself maintaining a consistent narrow width for a sleek fit. The rigid structure is essential to its form, achieved through stiffening agents in fabric versions or inherent rigidity in synthetics, allowing it to stand upright and retain shape throughout wear. Traditional clerical collars are made from breathable natural materials like 100% or , offering comfort during extended use, while modern alternatives utilize durable synthetic blends such as or for enhanced longevity and ease of maintenance. collars often require starching to achieve and preserve their crisp, formal stiffness, particularly for liturgical settings, whereas synthetic models feature a linen-like texture and perforated inner bands for improved airflow and reduced . Care varies by material: versions are machine washable and may be starched at home or professionally, while collars are simply washed with and water to maintain without special treatments. The collar integrates seamlessly with a black clergy shirt or full cassock, secured via metal studs or buttons—typically two at the front and two at the back—that pass through the shirt's fabric and the collar's reinforced edges for a secure, adjustable fit. This attachment method allows for quick donning and removal, adapting to different occasions while upholding the collar's distinctive encircling profile.

Types and Styles

The clerical collar, also known as the Roman collar, features a full encirclement design that wraps completely around the neck, typically secured by a band or studs for a seamless appearance. This style is constructed from a white band attached to a clergy shirt's neckband, providing a distinctive outline that emphasizes clerical identity. In contrast, the tab collar incorporates a detachable white tab that fits into a V-shaped opening at the throat of the clerical , allowing for easier insertion and removal. This configuration offers flexibility in wear, with the tab serving as a visible marker without full . The term "dog collar" serves as an informal designation for the full white band style, drawing from its resemblance to a pet's collar due to the rigid, encircling form. This highlights the collar's stiff, uniform structure but does not alter its functional design. Clerical collars vary by level of formality, with everyday versions often made from soft, washable or for comfort during routine activities. In ceremonial contexts, rigid starched collars provide a crisp, elevated appearance, maintaining shape under traditional vestments. Alternatives include half-collars, which cover only the front of the , or simple neckbands that offer a minimalist band without additional inserts. Adaptations for environmental conditions include breathable or moisture-wicking fabrics designed for tropical climates, enhancing ventilation and reducing discomfort in humid settings. Hypoallergenic materials, such as non-deformable composites, address sensitivities by minimizing while retaining a clean, professional look. While clerical collars are typically white, color variations to denote rank or order, such as for bishops, apply to the accompanying clerical shirts rather than the collars themselves, which remain white to signify their universal clerical purpose.

Historical Development

Origins in the

The clerical collar, a distinctive narrow band of white fabric worn around the neck, emerged in the mid-19th century as an adaptation of contemporary men's fashion tailored for ecclesiastical use. Its invention is widely attributed to Rev. Dr. Donald McLeod, a Presbyterian minister serving in the Barony of for the , who introduced the design around 1865. McLeod, who also held the position of to , created the collar as a detachable, stiff white band fastened at the back, intended to be worn with a black or under a , replacing the broader white preaching tabs or cravats that had been standard among Protestant clergy since the . This innovation was driven by several practical considerations suited to the era's social and technological shifts. In the context of Victorian England's rapid urbanization, clergy increasingly engaged in active street ministry and pastoral work in industrial cities, where wide cravats proved cumbersome and prone to soiling in everyday interactions. The new collar offered enhanced practicality, allowing for greater mobility while maintaining a visible marker of clerical identity amid evolving secular fashion trends that favored simpler, tailored attire for men. Additionally, its detachable nature addressed hygiene concerns by enabling the collar to be laundered or replaced independently of the shirt, a significant improvement over the non-detachable linen bands that required full garment washing and were susceptible to rapid wear in polluted urban environments. The design also promoted uniformity in clerical dress, countering the variability introduced by Victorian sartorial excesses and reinforcing professional distinction for ministers. The collar's early adoption occurred primarily within Protestant circles, beginning in Presbyterian congregations in and spreading to Anglican contexts in Britain and the during the 1860s. This proliferation was facilitated by the Industrial Revolution's advancements in , which enabled the of affordable, stiffened or collars through improved starching techniques and mechanized fabric processing—innovations that made such items accessible beyond elite tailors. However, it faced initial resistance from traditionalists who clung to older styles, such as ornate lace-trimmed bands or remnants of ruff-like collars, viewing the simplified form as insufficiently dignified or emblematic of historical clerical . In Catholic contexts, earlier forms of neckwear existed, but the modern collar's adoption followed Protestant developments. The integrated a modified tab-collar variant for in the late , becoming mandatory for priests by 1884.

Evolution and Standardization

In the early , the formalized clerical attire through the , which required clerics to dress modestly in a manner befitting their state, including a decent according to local customs or the local Ordinary's prescriptions (Canon 136); the served as the standard under this provision (with Canon 124 providing broader obligations for clerics). This codification emphasized the —typically paired with a clerical collar—as a symbol of clerical identity, though it did not explicitly detail the collar itself. Post-World War II advancements in textile production introduced synthetic materials like blends for clerical shirts and collars, which reduced costs and improved durability compared to traditional or , facilitating wider adoption among worldwide. Standardization efforts extended to Anglican and Protestant traditions during the mid-20th century. In the , clerical shirts with collars became more common alongside the by the mid-20th century, reflecting a shift toward simpler attire, though cassocks saw a revival and no specific resolution mandated changes. Protestant denominations, including Presbyterian and Lutheran bodies, increasingly viewed collars as standard identifiers for ordained ministers in public and settings during this period. Global adaptations emerged in the 1960s, particularly in mission fields of and , where clergy modified collars with lighter, breathable fabrics like cotton-linen blends to suit tropical climates, prioritizing comfort without altering the symbolic form. The Second Vatican (1962–1965) introduced flexibility in Catholic clerical wear, allowing bishops' conferences to adapt attire to local customs and reducing strict uniformity in favor of pastoral practicality. In recent decades up to 2025, sustainability movements have prompted the use of eco-friendly materials, such as recycled from bottles and organic for collars, as seen in offerings from ethical clergy apparel producers. The from 2020 onward highlighted collars' role in virtual worship, where clergy wore them during online services to maintain visual cues of authority from home settings. Since the 1970s, liberal Protestant denominations have debated mandatory collar use, often opting for voluntary adoption to emphasize accessibility and reduce hierarchical perceptions, leading to greater variation in attire.

Usage in Christianity

Roman Catholic Church

In the Roman Catholic Church, the clerical collar, also known as the Roman collar, was adopted as streetwear for in the late , evolving from earlier ecclesiastical attire and influenced by Protestant innovations such as the invented in 1865. Its use became formalized in the , where Canon 136 §1 required all clerics to wear fitting ecclesiastical attire according to the legitimate customs of the place and the regulations of the local ordinary, with penalties including loss of office for persistent non-compliance after a warning. Following the Second Vatican Council, the revised this in Canon 284, mandating that clerics wear suitable ecclesiastical garb in accordance with norms established by episcopal conferences and legitimate local customs, thereby allowing greater discretion while emphasizing distinction from the . The clerical collar is mandatory for engaged in public ministry to signify their sacred calling and distinguish them from laypeople, as outlined in the 1994 Directory for the Ministry and Life of (§66), which describes it as an essential element of clerical identity. For formal occasions, typically wear the full collar paired with a black , while everyday public attire often consists of a simplified version with a black suit, as specified in complementary norms approved by episcopal conferences such as the Conference of Catholic Bishops in 1999. Bishops incorporate red trim on their and collars to denote their rank, aligning with traditional hierarchical distinctions in dress. Variations in clerical collar usage occur based on role and context. Seminarians may begin wearing a distinctive clerical collar, often in the form of a tab style, upon reaching candidacy or as determined by customs, serving as an initial marker of their formation for . Members of religious orders, such as the , frequently adopt modified styles, opting for the standard black shirt and white collar or even secular clothing to facilitate their apostolic work, in keeping with the flexibility permitted under Canon 284 for institutes with proper habits. Regional differences in enforcement reflect local challenges and customs. In , adherence to the clerical collar remains relatively strict as a visible sign of priestly identity, supported by episcopal conferences' norms. In contrast, exhibits greater flexibility; for example, in areas like , bishops have advised wearing the collar or during public ministry to mitigate risks of by clearly identifying priests amid ongoing security concerns.

Eastern Orthodox Church

In the Eastern Orthodox Church, the clerical collar is not traditionally part of everyday clerical attire. Priests and deacons typically wear the () as their standard outer garment, often with a , which serves as the primary visible sign of their ordained status. However, in Western countries and communities, some Orthodox clergy adopt the clerical collar with a black shirt for streetwear and duties, blending tradition with practical identification in multicultural contexts. This usage varies by and local custom, with more conservative traditions favoring the full .

Protestant Denominations

In Protestant denominations, the clerical collar serves as a visible marker of ordained ministry, though its use varies widely without the centralized mandates seen in Roman Catholic practice. Originating in the Presbyterian tradition in the as a practical evolution from earlier Puritan tabs, it was designed to signify the preacher's role while allowing mobility during pastoral duties. This attire quickly spread to other Protestant groups, emphasizing clerical identity in preaching and sacraments, but adoption remains optional in many traditions to reflect Protestant emphases on personal conscience and congregational autonomy. Within the Anglican Communion, the clerical collar is optional and not required by , though it is preferred in high-church contexts where liturgical traditions align closely with historical vestments. Clergy may forgo the collar in informal settings while retaining it for formal worship. In the , a member of the , the tab collar—featuring a small white insert at the throat—is particularly common among , distinguishing it from the full Roman-style collar and underscoring Protestant heritage. In Methodist and Presbyterian denominations, the clerical collar has been widespread since the 19th century, influenced by founders like , who as an Anglican advocated plain yet distinctive attire for ministers. Full collars are standard for pastors in many Presbyterian churches, symbolizing the office of teaching elder, though styles may vary from the traditional band to more modern adaptations. The [United Methodist Church](/page/United_Methodist Church) permits significant flexibility, with most opting not to wear the collar daily but using it for preaching or official functions, reflecting a post-20th-century shift toward in ministry. Lutheran churches adopted the clerical collar in the , particularly in U.S. synods, as a sign of ordained amid growing of the pastorate. In the (ELCA), the "dog collar"—a full white band—is commonly worn for formal services and calls, evoking and servitude, while progressive congregations often allow casual alternatives like open-collar shirts to foster relational ministry. Among other Protestant groups, usage is largely voluntary; Baptist pastors may wear the collar for identification in chaplaincy or formal roles but rarely as a daily requirement, aligning with Baptist emphasis on the . In Pentecostal traditions, such as the , the clerical collar is rare, with clergy favoring business suits to maintain an approachable, Spirit-led presence without hierarchical symbols. Denominational variations persist, as conservative Reformed churches often expect collars to uphold ministerial dignity, whereas bodies prioritize personalization to suit diverse congregational needs. As of 2024, trends in Protestant attire lean toward greater inclusivity, with adaptations to accommodate women and non-binary ministers gaining traction in evolving church contexts.

Symbolism and Cultural Impact

Religious Symbolism

The clerical collar serves as a profound symbol of the 's separation from the , echoing the biblical call in 1 Peter 2:9 to be a ", a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's special possession," which underscores the distinct role of ministers set apart for divine service. The white band of the collar, in particular, represents purity and humility, signifying the moral and spiritual cleanliness expected of those consecrated to God's work, while the encircling design evokes readiness for service, often interpreted as the " of Christ" from Matthew 11:29-30, binding the wearer to selfless obedience and pastoral duty. This core symbolism draws from ancient priestly traditions, mirroring the garments of in Exodus 28, which denoted holiness, mediation between God and people, and the bearing of sacred responsibilities. Across Christian denominations, the collar's meaning carries nuanced theological emphases. In the Roman Catholic tradition, it signifies the indelible character of and obedience to authority, including fidelity to the Church's as an outward manifestation of commitment. Protestant interpretations, by contrast, highlight equality among believers under the priesthood of all (1 Peter 2:9) and the pastoral calling as a vocational , without the connotations of , emphasizing the collar as a simple marker of ministerial service in the broader . Modern readings sometimes align it with the "" in :10-18, portraying the collar as a protective emblem of spiritual resilience against worldly challenges. The symbolism of the clerical collar has evolved significantly in the , transitioning from a marker of status to a practical identifier for amid declining and rising , where its visibility reaffirms sacred presence in . By 2025, discussions have increasingly focused on inclusivity, with adaptations in design and fit for women to ensure the symbol equally represents diverse calls to ministry while preserving its traditional essence of and service. In rituals, some Catholic ordinations include vesting prayers that bless clerical attire, invoking upon the collar as a tool for pastoral witness.

Depictions in Media and Society

The clerical collar has been a recurring visual motif in and television, often symbolizing , , or institutional hypocrisy. In the 1994 film Priest, directed by , the protagonist wears the collar as a constant reminder of his vows amid personal turmoil and ethical dilemmas, highlighting stereotypes of as tormented figures bound by rigid doctrine. Similarly, the long-running British TV series (2013–present), based on G.K. Chesterton's stories, portrays the titular as a clever solving crimes while donning the collar, reinforcing its image as a badge of benevolent authority and . In contrast, the 2015 Spotlight, which dramatizes the Globe's investigation into [Catholic Church](/page/Catholic Church) abuse cover-ups, depicts priests in collars as symbols of obscured corruption, contributing to public distrust of clerical figures following the 2002 revelations. These portrayals underscore broader media tropes where the collar represents either steadfast virtue or concealed flaws, influencing societal views on religious leadership. Cultural controversies surrounding the clerical collar intensified during the counterculture movement, when youth rejected establishment symbols like the collar in favor of informal attire such as denim jeans, viewing it as emblematic of oppressive authority during anti-war protests and civil rights struggles. In the , debates escalated after the 2002 Boston Globe exposé on clergy sexual abuse, which shifted media narratives to portray the collar as a for institutional failures, eroding its perceived sanctity and sparking widespread discussions on within religious hierarchies. Beyond religious contexts, the clerical collar has been adopted non-religiously by activists and repurposed in and . Civil rights activist , a Methodist , wore his clerical collar during 1960s activities in , signaling moral solidarity amid violence. Medically, the term "clergy collar" serves as a for the , a neck brace used to immobilize and support the spine after injuries, unrelated to wear but sharing the name due to its encircling design. The collar plays a notable role in interfaith dialogues, where wear it to visibly identify their spiritual authority and foster trust across s, as seen among interfaith ministers who blend practices while donning the garment for public events. In 2025, trends have amplified both reverence and , with influencers portraying "hot priests" in collars to attract younger audiences to discussions, while memes often lampoon clerical , blending admiration for with humorous critique in viral content. Globally, perceptions of the clerical collar vary sharply: in conservative societies like those in Latin America and parts of Africa, it is venerated as a marker of spiritual guidance and social stability, enhancing clergy influence in community affairs. In secular Europe, however, it faces mockery and skepticism, reflecting broader cultural shifts toward viewing religious symbols as outdated amid rising irreligiosity and political conservatism among younger clergy clashing with progressive norms.

References

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