Quick answer

Choose a wing tip tuxedo shirt for a classic black tie look, especially if you pair it with a bow tie. Opt for a pleated collar dress shirt with a concealed placket for a modern, sleek appearance that works well with a necktie or bow tie.

Collar style and formality

A wing tip collar features small points that turn down, creating a classic tuxedo look. It’s designed to sit neatly under a bow tie, making it a staple for formal events like weddings and galas.

A pleated collar (often a semi-spread or spread style) offers a more versatile appearance. It can be worn with a bow tie or necktie and works for both black tie and less formal dress codes.

Front placket and accessories

The wing tip tuxedo shirt includes a convertible front placket that accepts button studs, adding a polished, formal detail. Its convertible barrel cuffs also accept cufflinks, allowing you to personalize the look.

The pleated collar shirt features a concealed placket for a clean, minimal front. Note that it does not accept button studs, so you’ll skip that accessory. It does come with French cuffs and includes silk knot cufflinks for a refined touch.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Wing tip collar (Classic): Best for traditional black tie events. Works with bow ties and accepts button studs and cufflinks for a polished look. Go with this if you want a timeless tuxedo shirt that pairs with a bow tie.
  • Pleated collar (Modern): Offers a sleek, concealed placket and French cuffs. Includes silk knot cufflinks but does not accept button studs. Choose this for a contemporary, clean appearance that also works with a necktie.
  • Fit and body type: The wing tip shirt is available in classic fit; the pleated collar shirt is slim fit. Both come in various neck and sleeve sizes. Select the fit that matches your body type—slim for a tapered look, classic for more room.

Product facts at a glance

  • Wing Tip Tuxedo Shirt - Classic: Classic wing tip collar and pleated bib front; convertible barrel cuffs and front placket accept cufflinks and button studs. You can add personal accessories like studs and cufflinks for a traditional formal look.

    Wing Tip Tuxedo Shirt - Classic

    Wing Tip Tuxedo Shirt - Classic

  • Cotton Fly-Front Dress Shirt - Slim: Slim fit, semi-spread collar, concealed placket, and French cuffs with included silk knot cufflinks. Does not accept button studs. The concealed placket creates a sleek, modern silhouette, but you won’t use studs—perfect for a minimalist aesthetic.

    Cotton Fly-Front Dress Shirt - Slim

    Cotton Fly-Front Dress Shirt - Slim

Which one is right for you?

Best for

  • Traditionalists attending black tie events who want a classic wing tip collar with studs and cufflinks
  • Anyone pairing a bow tie with a pleated bib front for a formal look

Not ideal for

  • Those who prefer a modern, minimalist look without studs or a visible placket
  • People who want to wear a necktie with a wing tip collar (it’s designed for bow ties)