Collar
A collar is a circular piece that is most commonly placed around the neck. This can be used to signify a dynamic or can also be used as a way to restrain or lead a person.
Collars are made out of a wide variety of materials ranging from metal rings and steel cable all the way to lace and fabric. Other common materials are (vegan) leather, rubber, neoprene and silicone, depending on its use. Designs range from very simple to very intricate and there is wide variety of shapes and sizes.
Collars are most commonly used to indicate of a person is in a dynamic with another person. This collar can be used only during a scene, or in some dynamics collars are also worn in day to day life. Note that these "day-collars" are less conspicuous and often can be observed as a piece of jewelry or a fashion statement. See Collaring
Collaring Ceremony
In an established dynamic the gifting of a collar to the submissive person can be a ceremony signifying that the dominant type person is accepting the submission from the other person long term. This kind of collar, and subsequent collaring can be a personal ceremony of importance, for some folks it is akin to marriage or hand-fasting. In some cases cuffs that match the collar are added to extend the set as a complete package, indicating the person is submissive to their d-type.
Locking
In some cases collars can be locked, often the key being held by the d-type person in the dynamic. This is a kind of constant reminder for the s-type that the d-type person is in charge of them. It is however also common that a spare key is somewhere near if removal of the collar is needed for either medical or other emergency purposes.
Alternative "Collars"
In some cases the neck may not be the best place for a dynamic indicator. In some cases people will use a bracelet around the wrist or even ankle as an indicator. This is also a way for some people to have a day-collar, but not be too visible to people outside of the lifestyle. This may be due to their work situation or even a personal preference for the neck to be free.
It can also be anything else the partners agree on as a symbolic marker, such as a diaper in the context of diaper fetishism, which can even be locked in place with a special locking panty to reinforce the sense of commitment and control.
As a Restraint
In some cases a collar is also just used as a restraint. Sometimes these are used without an established dynamic, indicating that the person wearing the collar is submissive or would like to be lead around. A collar can also allow them to be connected to another object in a relatively safe way.
These are sometimes referred to as play collars and are often all about functionality and less about symbolism and looks. However there are cases where the two overlap and a play collar can signify a dynamic - often a more casual one that is in place for a particular scene or isn't a 24/7 total power exchange.
Related Terms
Updated Updated