The History, Style, and Return of the Glamorous Dagger Collar Blouse

The History and Style of Dagger Collars

Dagger collars, also known as Peter Pan collars, are a vintage style of women's blouse or dress collar that was most popular in the 1940s and 1950s. The collars are named "dagger" because of their sharply pointed tips that resemble the blade of a dagger. Dagger collars have an elegant, retro look that conjures images of classic Hollywood glamour and chic femininity.

The Origins of the Dagger Collar

Dagger collars first emerged in the late 1930s as an evolution of the round Peter Pan collar. The pointed collar tips created a more dramatic, angular look compared to the softer Peter Pan style. By the early 1940s, dagger collars were widely popularized by top designers and frequently featured in women's fashion magazines. They reached the height of mainstream popularity in the 1950s and were a staple blouse collar style of the decade.

It is generally thought that the emergence of the dagger collar was influenced by Hollywood starlets and high fashion trends of the 1930s and 40s. The look exemplified mid-century glamour with a hint of playful eccentricity. Dagger collars created an attention-grabbing focal point and flattering frame for the face, much like the broad shoulder pads and nipped-in waists of 40s fashion silhouettes.

The Signature Styles of Dagger Collars

True vintage dagger collar blouses and dresses feature a few common design elements that create their distinctive look:

• A pointed, dagger-shaped collar with sharp angles rather than curved or rounded edges
• Collar points that extend 3-5 inches from the neckline for an elongated, narrow shape
• Stiff, crisp collars made from fabric stabilized with interlining and seam tape
• Top-stitching, pintucks, pleating, or ruffle trim details on the collar
• A collar that stands up prominently from the neck and shoulder line when worn

Dagger collar necklines are most common on tailored blouses, but the collar style was also frequently incorporated into sundresses and day dresses of the 1940s and 50s. Blouses with dagger collars often featured additional retro design details like puffed sleeves, button front closures, fitted sleeve cuffs, and decorative pockets.

Wearing the Dagger Collar Look

The dagger collar imparts instant vintage glamour to any outfit. To rock the retro dagger collar look:

• Look for blouses with stiff, crisp dagger collars that stand out from the neckline
• Opt for dagger collars on solid color tops to let the dramatic neckline speak for itself
• Choose high-necked dagger collars to really emphasize the vintage vibe
• Pair with circle skirts, pencil skirts, or structured dresses for a head-to-toe 40s or 50s look
• Cinch in the waist with wide belts for a signature mid-century silhouette
• Add vintage hairstyles like victory rolls, pin curls or low chignons
• Finish with retro makeup like bold red lips and cat eye liner

Dagger collar blouses add distinctive retro style to modern outfits too. Contrast the sharp collar points with casual pieces like jeans, shorts, or skirts. The collars peeking out from under sweaters or blazers also create a cute detail. Dagger collar dresses and jumpsuits take the look into a contemporary direction.

Shopping for Vintage Dagger Collars

True vintage dagger collar tops from the 1940s-1960s will feature the classic stiff, structured collar construction and details like top-stitching or decorative trim. When shopping vintage, things to look for include:

• Crisp, firm collar points that appear molded or stiffened
• Thick, quality materials like cotton, silk, or rayon
• Neat top-stitching, pintucks, or pleats on the collar
• Reinforced seams, interfacing, or seam tape in the collar
• Metal collar stays in the points (optional)
• Labels, tags, or union tags dating from the 1940s-60s era

Quality reproduction dagger collar tops offer the same look in modern sizes and fabrics. Stick to styles with structured collars and recognizable dagger details for the most authentic effect. For a DIY option, add removable dagger collar inserts to basic collared blouses and dresses.

The Dagger Collar Revival

Dagger collar blouses and dresses are back in vogue, thanks to the revival of 1940s and 1950s fashion. Contemporary designers like Ganni, Rixo, Self-Portrait, and Cecilie Bahnsen have reimagined the dagger collar on modern tops, dresses, and jumpsuits. Updated takes feature cropped collar lengths, relaxed fits, and new fabrics like crepe, satin, and lace.

Vintage lovers, retro fashionistas, and anyone looking for a glamorous statement collar can shop the dagger collar trend today. Add high-impact vintage style to your wardrobe with the iconic dagger collar look.

FAQs

What decades were dagger collars popular?

Dagger collars first emerged in the late 1930s and were most popular during the 1940s and 1950s.

What makes a dagger collar different than other collars?

Dagger collars are distinguished by their stiff, sharply pointed tips that extend several inches from the neckline. The elongated pointed shape resembles a dagger blade.

How do you style a vintage dagger collar blouse?

Pair dagger collar blouses with circle skirts, pencil skirts, or structured dresses. Cinch the waist in with belts. Add vintage hairstyles and makeup for a head-to-toe retro look.

Where can you shop for dagger collar blouses and dresses?

You can find true vintage dagger collar pieces, modern reproductions, and contemporary takes on the style from vintage stores, online vintage shops, and some mainstream clothing retailers.

How do you care for vintage dagger collar garments?

Gently hand wash or dry clean vintage dagger collar pieces to maintain the shape of the stiff, structured collars. Avoid high heat and rough treatment.