This is the final word on whether you can wear a dress shirt without a tie

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Mike Nudelman/Business Insider

Men's shirt collars have undergone a revolution. The demands of the modern man at the office, as well as after hours, have necessitated this change.

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Collars nowadays are typically narrower, shorter, and have a wider spread to allow for the slimmer fits and lapels that are in style these days. It also lets the tie come off after work, which is important in these more casual times.

When it comes to informal business attire, though, there are generally only six types of collars to consider. While the spread collar dominates the space, the more traditional forward point is not too far behind.

Here's how to know which kinds of collared shirts require a tie - and which can go without.