If you’re a modern professional, you know the struggle all too well. You want to look sharp and put-together, but the thought of wearing a stiff, uncomfortable, and sweat-inducing traditional dress shirt for a full day is enough to make you dread your morning routine. The standard polo shirt, while comfortable, often looks too casual and its collar inevitably succumbs to the dreaded “bacon neck.” It feels like you have to choose between looking good and feeling good.
Enter Collars and Co. This innovative brand has seemingly cracked the code, offering a solution that has taken the menswear world by storm. They’ve created a hybrid garment that promises the polished, structured look of a dress shirt with the all-day comfort and breathability of your favorite performance polo. Backed by a successful appearance on Shark Tank, Collars & Co is more than just a clothing brand; it’s a movement challenging the very definition of business casual .
In this comprehensive Collars and Co review, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know. We’ll explore the brand’s origins, the technology behind its famous Dress Collar Polo™, what real customer reviews say, and whether it lives up to the hype. If you’ve been searching for a way to elevate your wardrobe without sacrificing comfort, read on.
What is Collars and Co? A Brand Born from a Universal Frustration
The story of Collars and Co begins with a simple yet powerful frustration. Founder Justin Baer, a former Wall Street professional, was tired of the discomfort of traditional dress shirts . He knew there had to be a better way to look professional without feeling restricted. His solution was the Dress Collar Polo™, a groundbreaking shirt that pairs a formal English dress collar with an exceptionally comfortable, four-way stretch polo .
Launched in 2021, the brand quickly gained traction, going viral on social media for its unique concept . This buzz culminated in a memorable appearance on Shark Tank Season 14, where Baer secured a $1 million deal with Mark Cuban and Peter Jones . This collars and co shark tank moment was a pivotal turning point, propelling the company to new heights and validating its innovative approach to menswear.
The Game-Changer: The Dress Collar Polo™ Technology
At the heart of the brand’s success is its patent-pending Dress Collar Polo™. But what exactly makes it so special? It’s not just a polo shirt with a stiffer collar; it’s a complete re-engineering of the classic garment .
Key Features and Benefits
The Firm Collar Technology: This is the signature feature. The collar is designed to be exceptionally rigid, holding its shape throughout the day. This means it looks crisp and professional when worn under a sweater or blazer, and it will never roll up or get that flimsy, curled look that plagues standard polos . In a Reddit review comparing six popular polo brands, the reviewer noted, “What makes this brand stand out from other polos is the super stiff collar. This is something you’ll find in dress shirts and not polos. With this shirt, you don’t have to worry about your collar losing its shape.” .
High-Performance Fabric: The shirts are crafted from a lightweight, breathable performance blend (typically polyester, viscose, and elastane) that offers four-way stretch . This fabric is moisture-wicking, wrinkle-resistant, and quick-drying, ensuring you stay cool, dry, and comfortable all day, whether you’re in the office, on the golf course, or traveling . While the synthetic feel may not appeal to everyone, it is precisely this technology that delivers the athletic-wear-like comfort .
Versatile Style: The Dress Collar Polo™ is designed to be an incredibly versatile wardrobe staple. It looks sharp on its own, paired with chinos or jeans for a smart-casual look. However, it truly shines as a layering piece. Because the collar stays structured and doesn’t flop over, it looks just like a dress shirt when worn under a crewneck sweater or a blazer .
Collars and Co Reviews: What Are Customers Saying?
The true test of any product is what real customers have to say. The collars and co reviews are a mix of high praise and some important critiques, which is typical for any rapidly growing brand.
The Positives
The overwhelming majority of reviews highlight the innovative comfort and polished look. The brand has amassed over 200,000 customers and generated over $20 million in lifetime revenue, demonstrating its massive appeal .
Unmatched Comfort: Users frequently praise the shirts for being “uber comfortable,” comparing the feel to athletic wear .
Collar Stays Crisp: The structured dress collar is a constant hit, with users loving that it maintains its shape under sweaters and jackets, eliminating the need to constantly adjust or iron their collars .
Wrinkle-Resistant: The fabric’s performance means these shirts are ideal for travel or for men who want to look sharp with minimal effort. One reviewer on FashionBeans noted, “This puts the ‘look good’ AND the ‘feel good’ into your everyday ‘look good, feel good, play good'” .
The Critiques
While the brand has many fans, some customer reviews point out a few notable drawbacks.
Synthetic Feel: Some buyers, particularly those accustomed to natural fibers like cotton, are critical of the 100% polyester or synthetic blend, finding the feel less “luxurious” or “cheap” .
Sizing and Fit: While many find the fit true to size, some users with broader chests or shoulders find the fit a bit snug and recommend sizing up . One Trustpilot review described “really bad sizing,” though it did not elaborate on the specific issue . A positive review on Reddit for a size small found the fit “very comfortably” on a slim build .
International Ordering and Returns: A significant point of frustration for some international customers stems from unexpected shipping costs, customs fees, and a return policy that may not be as straightforward or cost-effective as it is for US-based customers .
Comparison with Other Brands
In a detailed Reddit review, Collars and Co scored 25/30, tying with Ralph Lauren and outperforming other iconic brands like Fred Perry (24/30), Lacoste (22/30), and Hugo Boss (21/30). The reviewer was most impressed with the collar structure and overall value . This suggests that for many, Collars & Co offers a superior combination of style, comfort, and price point compared to competitors.
Where to Buy and Collars and Co Retail Presence
Collars & Co operates primarily as a direct-to-consumer brand through its website, collarsandco.com .
Online
The official website offers the full range of products, frequent sales, and free shipping on orders over $150. You can also find some products on collars and co amazon, though it’s often recommended to buy from their official site to ensure the best selection and customer service.
Brick-and-Mortar Stores
Despite its online origins, collars and co store locations are popping up across the United States. As of late 2025, the brand has opened multiple retail locations, allowing customers to try on products before buying . These stores can be found in:
Chicago, Illinois
Boca Raton, Florida
King of Prussia, Pennsylvania
Rockville, Maryland
Southlake, Texas
A location in California
The Collars and Co Product Lineup
While the Dress Collar Polo™ is their flagship, Collars and Co has expanded its collection significantly.
Dress Collar Polos™: Available in three main collar types: English Spread, Cutaway, and Semi-Spread, and in over 50 colors and patterns .
Performance Dress Shirts: For a more traditional dress shirt look with the brand’s signature stretch and wrinkle-resistant fabric.
Maverick Performance Blazer: A lightweight, breathable, and stretchy blazer designed for modern professionals on the move .
Layering and Casualwear: They also offer sweaters, pullovers (like the DriRelease® Performance Pullover), and tees .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Collars and Co from Shark Tank?
Yes! Founder Justin Baer appeared on Season 14 of Shark Tank. He secured a deal for $300,000 in cash and a $700,000 line of credit for 10% equity with Mark Cuban and Peter Jones . This collars and co shark tank appearance was a major catalyst for the brand’s growth.
2. Are Collars and Co shirts worth the money?
For many, yes. Priced between $60 and $90, the shirts are positioned as a premium item. They offer excellent value for professionals who prioritize a wrinkle-free, polished look with the comfort of a performance shirt. While they are pricier than basic polos, the patented collar technology and durable fabric often justify the investment for the modern man .
3. What is the shirt material?
The signature Dress Collar Polos are made from a high-performance synthetic blend, typically including polyester, viscose, and elastane. This material is engineered for four-way stretch, moisture-wicking, and wrinkle resistance .
4. Do Collars and Co shirts fit true to size?
Generally, yes. The fit is described as a tailored, athletic cut. However, several reviews suggest that men with broader shoulders or a muscular build may want to size up for a more comfortable fit . Using the size guide on the official website is highly recommended.
5. What is the Collars and Co return policy?
The brand offers a free and simple no-hassle return policy for US customers. However, some international reviews have mentioned high shipping costs and customs fees that are not refunded, making returns less favorable for customers outside the US .
6. Does Collars and Co have physical stores?
Yes, they are expanding their physical retail footprint. They currently have locations in states including Illinois, Florida, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Texas, and California .
7. Is the company a collars & co legit brand?
Absolutely. With over $20 million in revenue, a deal on Shark Tank, and a growing retail presence, Collars & Co is a legitimate and successful company. However, like all brands, it has its share of negative reviews, primarily related to sizing inconsistencies and international shipping, which are important to consider .
The Verdict: Should You Buy from Collars and Co?
Collars and Co has successfully filled a significant gap in the modern man’s wardrobe. It offers a compelling solution to the age-old dilemma of choosing between looking sharp and feeling comfortable.
Pros:
Innovative Collar: A truly game-changing feature that solves a common problem.
Extreme Comfort: Performance fabric makes it ideal for long days and active lifestyles.
Versatility: Perfect for the office, a night out, or travel.
Easy Care: The wrinkle-resistant fabric is a godsend for busy professionals.
Cons:
Synthetic Feel: May not appeal to purists who prefer 100% cotton or natural fibers.
Fit Variation: Sizing may be tricky for non-standard body types, potentially requiring an exchange.
International Returns: Customers outside the US should be aware of potential extra costs.
Ultimately, this collars & co review finds that the brand more than delivers on its core promise: a comfortable, stylish, and low-maintenance shirt that elevates your look. If you are a professional tired of uncomfortable dress shirts or a guy who wants to look put-together with minimal fuss, Collars & Co is well worth a try. Just be sure to consult the size guide carefully and, if you’re outside the US, factor in potential shipping and return costs.
