Let's get straight to it — here's what actually matters on this one.

• Cotton fibers relax when wet and can shrink slightly as they dry, especially in hot dryers — collars, being densely stitched, show this first.
• Non-preshrunk cotton can lose up to 5% of its size in the first few washes — a collar that fit perfectly new can tighten noticeably.
• Wash in cold water and air-dry or use low heat to minimize shrinkage, especially for dress shirts you plan to wear often.
• If a collar is consistently tight after every wash, size up next time, or in the meantime, wash on the gentlest, coolest cycle available.

The fit-and-fabric-health takeaway: A too-tight collar after shrinkage isn't just uncomfortable — it puts constant pressure right against the neck's thin, sensitive skin.

Next up: check out our guide on why shirts gape at the buttons.