Pet Peeve of the Week

Subject: Popped Collars

This past week, we had the pleasure of having a guest-post written by one of the most fabulous and fashionable men I know, Simon Puckett. Simon addressed the “What Not To Wear” items for men, and we couldn’t be more on board. There is nothing more attractive than a well-dressed man! However, Simon has graciously left out one male fashion “don’t” …because it is my pet peeve.

A few years back, a video surfaced that humorously spoofed the guido lifestyle. “My New Haircut” went viral, mocking the “douche-baggery” that comes along with obsessive working out, aggressive use of hair gel and (cue gasp) the popping of one’s collar.


Unfortunately, the popped collar didn’t stop with the guidos. It spread like the plague, infecting preppy men across North America. As I mentioned, this video went viral a few years ago and so, the popped collar came under massive scrutiny. At that point, I thought, I hoped and I prayed that the popped collar had seen its last day.

Just two of many informational posters that warn against the dangers of the Pop.

Well folks, I was wrong. The popped collar has shown serious staying power, even infecting my own boyfriend. A polo shirt is actually one of my favourite looks on him and for a year and I half I’ve stayed silent. I have even folded his polos with the collar facing up (so as not to disturb the starch needed for a proper pop). But NO MORE I tell you!

An example of how I folded these shirts to preserve the Pop.

Girls, please take charge if your boyfriend is still sporting a popped collar. Don’t let the happiness that the pop brings him deter you from your mission to combat this stupid style. Don’t make my mistake and wait until his Birthday to finally say NO MORE!* Fold down that bad-boy and bask in the glory that is your man, un-popped.

Shaun, showing off his mood Pre- and Post-Popped.

 *Special thanks to my boyfriend Shaun for being my model and putting up with my antics on his Birthday. There are a million things I love about you, but your popped collar is definitely NOT one of them.