Collar inserts or collar stays, tabs or even collar stiffeners are the same thing. Some shirts have built in collar stiffeners in them made out of plastic (these are usually found in dress or work shirts instead of button down shirts which are more casual in nature). I prefer those that have inserts which you can remove and use on other shirts.
The bad thing about those built in ones is that they only stiffen up the collars when the shirt is fairly new . After a about a year's of washing, whether by hand or by machine, these built in inserts would actually become flimsy or bent out of shape or even wear out the cotton in the collar. Or they could suffer if you use too much heat during ironing. With removable inserts you actually get the choice of removing them when washing the shirt (which prolongs the shirt's life as the insert does not rub against the cloth) or when ironing the shirt.
They stay much stiffer in the long run. Even after a long day your collar will look crisp and proper. So always opt for shirts with a pocket for removable collar inserts. Your shirts last longer and you will look better throughout the day. Next time when shopping for dress shirts, make sure you get those with separate collar inserts or if you are visiting your tailor, make sure you opt for those that have pockets for inserts.
As you can see above, some are made out of plastic, steel and even other materials like brass. More exotic ones are made from whalebone or even gold, silver or pewter. The plastic ones are usually given free with dress shirts you buy. The metal ones are usually purchased separately or with more expensive ready to wear items. One place that I know that sells collar inserts in Kuala Lumpur are the Cuffz shirt boutiques in Great Eastern Mall, Jln. Ampang or at the one in Bangsar Village 2, in Bangsar.
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