Collar vs. Choker: What's the Difference?
By Aimie Carlson & Harlon Moss || Updated on March 4, 2024
A collar is a versatile accessory worn around the neck, often for fashion or identification, while a choker is a specific type of tight-fitting necklace that sits high on the neck.
Key Differences
Collars serve various purposes, from fashion statements to functional uses in pet identification and control. They come in multiple forms, including clothing collars, dog collars, and decorative neckwear. On the other hand, chokers are exclusively a form of jewelry or accessory that wraps closely around the neck, typically for aesthetic purposes.
Collars are designed with a range of materials, including fabric, leather, and metal, and can be adjustable or fixed in size. They may feature buckles, snaps, or ties for closure. Whereas chokers are usually made from materials like velvet, plastic, beads, or metal and often have a clasp or ribbon tie to secure them in place.
The history of collars dates back to ancient times, used for both practical and decorative reasons across different cultures. Chokers also have a rich history but were particularly popularized as a fashion trend in the late 19th century and have seen various revivals in fashion since.
Collars can indicate the wearer's status, profession, or affiliation, such as clerical collars or military uniform collars. Chokers, however, are primarily worn as a fashion statement and have been associated with different subcultures and fashion trends throughout history.
While collars can be a part of everyday attire or uniforms, providing functionality and style, chokers are often chosen for specific looks or occasions, highlighting their role as a decorative accessory rather than a functional item.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
A band, strip, or chain worn around the neck for various purposes.
A close-fitting necklace worn around the neck.
Purpose
Identification, fashion, restraint, or protection.
Primarily fashion and adornment.
Material
Fabric, leather, metal, etc.
Velvet, plastic, beads, metal, lace.
Adjustability
Often adjustable, with buckles or ties.
Usually fixed size but may have clasps or ties for slight adjustments.
Cultural Significance
Varies widely, from professional to pet collars.
Associated with fashion trends and subcultures.
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Collar and Choker Definitions
Collar
A part of a shirt that wraps around the neck.
He adjusted his shirt collar before the meeting.
Choker
A fashion accessory that encircles the neck.
The beaded choker caught everyone's attention.
Collar
A band or strap put around the neck of an animal.
The dog's collar had a tag with its name.
Choker
A piece of jewelry that sits high on the neck.
Her choker was adorned with a small pendant.
Collar
An indicator of rank or profession.
The distinct collar designates his military rank.
Choker
A style statement from the Victorian era.
The portrait showed a lady wearing a pearl choker.
Collar
The part of a garment that encircles the neck, especially when raised or folded.
Choker
One that chokes or suffocates another.
Collar
A tight-fitting necklace.
Choker
A tight-fitting necklace.
Collar
A restraining or identifying band of leather, metal, or plastic put around the neck of an animal.
Choker
A high, tight collar.
Collar
The cushioned part of a harness that presses against the shoulders of a draft animal.
Choker
A narrow neckpiece of fur.
Collar
(Biology) An encircling structure or bandlike marking, as around the neck of an animal, suggestive of a collar.
Choker
A piece of jewelry or ornamental fabric, worn as a necklace or neckerchief, tight to the throat.
Collar
Any of various ringlike devices used to limit, guide, or secure a machine part.
Choker
One who, or that which, chokes or strangles.
Collar
To furnish with a collar.
Choker
One who operates the choke of an engine during ignition.
Collar
To seize or detain.
Choker
(slang) Any disappointing or upsetting circumstance.
I lost £100 on the horses today — what a choker!
Collar
To arrest (a criminal, for example).
Choker
One who performs badly at an important part of a competition because they are nervous, especially when winning.
Collar
Clothes that encircle the neck.
Choker
A loop of cable fastened around a log to haul it.
Collar
The part of an upper garment (shirt, jacket, etc.) that fits around the neck and throat, especially if sewn from a separate piece of fabric.
Choker
One who, or that which, chokes.
Collar
A decorative band or other fabric around the neckline.
Choker
A stiff wide cravat; a stock.
Collar
A chain worn around the neck.
Choker
Someone who kills by strangling
Collar
A similar detachable item.
Choker
An unfortunate person who is unable to perform effectively because of nervous tension or agitation;
He could win if he wasn't a choker
Collar
A coloured ring round the neck of a bird or mammal.
Choker
Necklace that fits tightly around a woman's neck
Collar
A band or chain around an animal's neck, used to restrain and/or identify it.
Make sure your dog has a collar holding an identification tag.
Choker
A high tight collar
Collar
A part of harness designed to distribute the load around the shoulders of a draft animal.
Choker
An adornment often associated with gothic fashion.
He wore a leather choker with metal spikes.
Collar
(archaic) A hangman's knot.
Collar
A piece of meat from the neck of an animal.
A collar of brawn
Collar
(technology) Any encircling device or structure.
A nylon collar kept the bolt from damaging the surface underneath.
Collar
(rail transport) A physical lockout device to prevent operation of a mechanical signal lever.
Collar
(architecture) A ring or cincture.
Collar
(architecture) A collar beam.
Collar
(mining) A curb, or a horizontal timbering, around the mouth of a shaft.
Collar
(in compounds) Of or pertaining to a certain category of professions as symbolized by typical clothing.
Collar
(botany) The neck or line of junction between the root of a plant and its stem
Collar
A ringlike part of a mollusk in connection with the esophagus.
Collar
(nautical) An eye formed in the bight or bend of a shroud or stay to go over the masthead; also, a rope to which certain parts of rigging, as dead-eyes, are secured.
Collar
(slang) An arrest.
Collar
(finance) A trading strategy using options such that there is both an upper limit on profit and a lower limit on loss, constructed through taking equal but opposite positions in a put and a call with different strike prices.
Collar
(transitive) To grab or seize by the collar or neck.
Collar
(transitive) To place a collar on, to fit with one.
Collar and leash aggressive dogs.
Collar
(transitive) To seize, capture or detain.
Collar
(transitive) To preempt, control stringently and exclusively.
Collar
To arrest.
Collar
To bind in conversation.
I managed to collar Fred in the office for an hour.
Collar
(transitive) To roll up (beef or other meat) and bind it with string preparatory to cooking.
Collar
To bind (a submissive) to a dominant under specific conditions or obligations.
Collar
Something worn round the neck, whether for use, ornament, restraint, or identification; as, the collar of a coat; a lady's collar; the collar of a dog.
Collar
A ring or cincture.
Collar
The neck or line of junction between the root of a plant and its stem.
Collar
An ornament worn round the neck by knights, having on it devices to designate their rank or order.
Collar
A ringlike part of a mollusk in connection with esophagus.
Collar
A ring or round flange upon, surrounding, or against an object, and used for restraining motion within given limits, or for holding something to its place, or for hiding an opening around an object; as, a collar on a shaft, used to prevent endwise motion of the shaft; a collar surrounding a stovepipe at the place where it enters a wall. The flanges of a piston and the gland of a stuffing box are sometimes called collars.
Collar
An eye formed in the bight or bend of a shroud or stay to go over the masthead; also, a rope to which certain parts of rigging, as dead-eyes, are secured.
Collar
A curb, or a horizontal timbering, around the mouth of a shaft.
Collar
To seize by the collar.
Collar
To put a collar on.
Collar
To arrest, as a wanted criminal. Same as put the collar on.
Collar
A band that fits around the neck and is usually folded over
Collar
A band of leather or rope that is placed around an animal's neck as a harness or to identify it
Collar
Necklace that fits tightly around a woman's neck
Collar
A figurative restraint;
Asked for a collar on program trading in the stock market
Kept a tight leash on his emotions
He's always gotten a long leash
Collar
The act of apprehending (especially apprehending a criminal);
The policeman on the beat got credit for the collar
Collar
Take into custody;
The police nabbed the suspected criminals
Collar
Seize by the neck or collar
Collar
Furnish with a collar;
Collar the dog
Collar
A decorative band or necklace.
She wore a high collar adorned with pearls.
Collar
A restraining or controlling band.
The safety collar prevents the cat from climbing too high.
FAQs
Are all collars adjustable?
Many collars are adjustable, but some, particularly those attached to clothing or certain uniforms, are not.
What is the primary function of a collar?
Collars serve multiple functions, including fashion, identification, control, and protection.
Can a choker be considered a type of collar?
Yes, in the context of jewelry and fashion, a choker can be considered a specific, tight-fitting type of collar.
Are chokers suitable for all ages?
Chokers are primarily a fashion accessory and can be suitable for any age, depending on the style and context.
Do chokers come in one size?
Chokers typically have a standard size but may offer some adjustability with clasps, ties, or elastic materials.
Do collars always go around the neck?
While most commonly associated with the neck, "collar" can also refer to similar bands or structures on garments or equipment.
Can collars have symbolic meanings?
Yes, collars can symbolize status, profession, or affiliation, such as clerical collars or collars in the military.
Can collars be a fashion statement?
Absolutely, collars can be key elements in fashion, with various styles accentuating different looks.
Is there a gender preference for wearing chokers?
While traditionally more associated with women's fashion, chokers are worn by people of all genders depending on personal style and cultural context.
Is it common to personalize collars?
Yes, especially pet collars, which are often personalized with names, phone numbers, or decorative elements.
Can chokers be part of a cultural or historical costume?
Yes, chokers can be part of historical costumes or cultural attire, reflecting specific periods or styles.
What materials are commonly used for chokers?
Chokers can be made from velvet, lace, metal, beads, or plastic, among other materials.
Are chokers a part of modern fashion trends?
Chokers frequently resurface in fashion trends, adapting to contemporary styles and preferences.
Are there any health risks associated with wearing chokers?
If worn too tightly, chokers can cause discomfort or restrict blood flow, but they are generally safe when worn properly.
What is the historical significance of chokers?
Chokers have been worn for centuries, with their popularity peaking during different eras, such as the Victorian period, symbolizing both fashion and status.
Do professional athletes wear collars?
Yes, some sports uniforms include collars, though these are primarily for style or tradition rather than function.
How do you properly care for a leather collar?
Leather collars should be regularly cleaned with a suitable leather cleaner and conditioned to prevent drying and cracking.
What is the difference between a choker and a pendant necklace?
A choker fits snugly around the neck without dangling elements, while a pendant necklace typically hangs lower and features a pendant.
Can collars be considered protective gear?
In some contexts, such as in sports or certain professions, collars can provide protection, such as preventing neck injuries or exposure to hazards.
How do you choose the right choker for an outfit?
The choice depends on the outfit's neckline, style, and occasion, aiming to complement or highlight the overall look.
About Author
Written by
Aimie CarlsonAimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.
Co-written by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
