Types of BDSM Submissive Collar: Understanding Their Meaning and Order of Use

Written by: Bound By Desire Staff

The Evolution of the BDSM Submissive Collar

In BDSM dynamics, collars hold deep symbolic and practical value. They are more than just physical accessories—they represent the stages of commitment, trust, and power exchange between a Dominant and submissive. Submissive collars come in various forms, each with its own unique meaning. This guide will explore the typical order in which collars are given, what they signify, and how they evolve as a BDSM relationship deepens.

In this article, we will give an overview of the types of bondage collars, their order and meaning. For more details about the different options of the BDSM submissive collar, read these related articles:

Table of Contents

The Evolution of the BDSM Submissive Collar Types of Bondage Collars 1. Consideration Collar 2. Training Collar 3. Formal Collar or Slave Collar 4. Protection Collar 5. Day Collar (Discreet Collar) 6. Play Collar (Session Collar) 7. Posture Collar

Types of Bondage Collars

In this article, we will lay out the types of collars and their traditional appearances. Collars come in various forms, each carrying its own significance within the BDSM community. While there is a traditional framework for these collars, it’s important to remember that you can adapt their meaning and appearance to suit your own relationship. Below, we’ll describe the most common types of collars and their traditional look, but remember—these are just guidelines, and the most important thing is what the collar represents for you and your partner.

As with everything in the BDSM lifestyle, it's perfectly okay to break from the traditional look or symbolism of the collar. You can adapt it to suit your relationship and what feels meaningful to both you and your partner. The only limitations are the ones you agree upon together. While we may discuss what is considered traditional, there are truly no hard rules beyond the agreements you set with each other. The collar can be anything that holds significance for your dynamic—it doesn’t have to conform to any set expectations. Whether it's a piece of jewelry, an item with personal meaning, or something entirely unique, what matters most is the connection and understanding you and your partner share in defining its role in your relationship.

1. Consideration Collar

The Consideration Collar or Collar of Consideration is often the first collar offered by a Dominant to a submissive, symbolizing the beginning of a potential relationship. It serves as a sign that the Dominant is interested in pursuing a deeper connection with the submissive, and that both parties are entering a stage of mutual exploration. This collar reflects a "testing period" where they determine if their dynamic will evolve into something more formal and committed.

The Consideration Collar is traditionally the first collar offered in a potential Dominant-submissive relationship. This collar is given at the beginning of a possible relationship, symbolizing the Dominant's intention to explore a deeper connection with the submissive. While typically represented by a leather collar in some shade of blue, it can also take the form of a bracelet, waist chain, anklet, or another item depending on the submissive's circumstances, such as work requirements, or the Dominant's preference. The exact shade of blue is less significant than the symbolism of the color itself.

By offering the Collar of Consideration, the Dominant shows a serious interest in moving beyond a casual dynamic, signaling a desire to pursue something more substantial with the submissive. When the submissive accepts the collar, they are also expressing a mutual commitment to exploring this deeper connection. The collar serves as a visible indication to other Dominants and submissives that this submissive is "off-limits" during the consideration period, which should be respected by honorable members of the BDSM community.

Though the Collar of Consideration symbolizes a growing relationship, it is not meant to indicate a lifelong commitment. It is comparable to a pre-engagement ring, marking a transitional phase where both parties are evaluating the relationship's potential. If either the Dominant or submissive decides that the relationship isn't a good fit, they may respectfully end it without fault. In such cases, the submissive is expected to return the collar, as it remains the property of the Dominant. Retaining the collar after the relationship ends is considered disrespectful unless attempts to return it have been made and failed.

Key Takeaway: The Collar of Consideration marks the start of a more serious exploration, but it does not imply a long-term commitment.

Materials: Traditionally made from leather and typically in a shade of blue (a color rooted in the Old Guard Leather tradition), but it can also be a bracelet, anklet, or other discreet items depending on the couple's preferences.
Purpose: Symbolizes that the Dominant and submissive are in a consideration period, where other Dominants should respect the budding relationship and avoid approaching the collared submissive.
Flexibility: While blue is customary, the color and style of the collar are entirely up to the couple, allowing them to adapt the tradition to fit their personal dynamic.

2. Training Collar

Once the Dominant and submissive have agreed to continue deepening their relationship, the next step may involve a Training Collar. This collar indicates that the submissive is undergoing "training" under the guidance of the Dominant, learning protocols, rules, and behaviors that will help them better serve and submit within the dynamic.

A training collar is usually simple and functional. Its purpose is to symbolize that the submissive is undergoing training and that the relationship is still developing. It typically has a more temporary or adjustable design compared to a permanent collar, representing the evolving nature of the dynamic at this stage.

Traditionally, a training collar is made of leather and is often kept simple in design, focusing on discipline and purpose rather than decorative elements. Common colors like red and black are frequently used, though some Dominants may opt for chain collars based on personal preference or the submissive’s practical needs in daily life. The choice of material and style is a personal decision that reflects the unique nature of the relationship.

Much like an engagement ring symbolizes a promise of commitment, the training collar serves as a significant emblem of the growing bond between the Dominant and submissive. It marks the point where the relationship becomes more serious and structured, indicating that both partners have decided to explore their roles with a higher level of dedication and intention.

For the submissive, wearing the training collar is more than just an act of submission to the Dominant; it’s a profound acknowledgment that their actions, behavior, and personal development are now closely connected to the Dominant’s authority and reputation. By accepting the collar, the submissive commits to maintaining a standard of behavior, knowing that their actions reflect directly on the Dominant. In this way, the submissive becomes an extension of the Dominant, with their conduct—whether through obedience, discipline, or service—representing the Dominant’s leadership and guidance.

Key Takeaway: A Training Collar is practical and symbolic of a submissive’s growth and learning under a Dominant’s guidance.

Materials: Often made from durable leather or nylon to withstand frequent use. Sometimes the design may include a D-ring or O-Ring for practical purposes, such as attaching leashes or restraints.
Purpose: Represents a temporary phase where the submissive is being trained. This collar signifies that the relationship is more than casual and that the Dominant is investing time in molding the submissive's behavior and understanding of their roles.
Duration: The Training Collar is worn during the period in which the submissive is learning and adapting. Once the training is complete, the collar is often replaced by a more formal one.

3. Formal Collar or Slave Collar

The Formal Collar, also known as the Slave Collar, is one of the most significant collars in a BDSM relationship. It is typically given after the Dominant and submissive have developed a deep level of trust, commitment, and understanding. This collar represents the Dominant’s formal ownership of the submissive, signifying that their dynamic has evolved into a long-term relationship.

This is the most symbolic and formal of all collars. Traditionally, it is made of high-quality materials like steel, leather, or even custom designs that hold deep significance for both the Dominant and submissive. It represents a lifelong or permanent commitment, much like a wedding ring, and is often given after long periods of trust-building and training.

This collar is the equivalent of a wedding ring, and its acceptance marks the full submission of the submissive to the Dominant.

Just like a wedding ring, the Formal Collar symbolizes a lifelong commitment in the BDSM community. The submissive’s acceptance of the collar is a voluntary offering of their complete submission, symbolizing their trust, devotion, and willingness to continue the relationship under the Dominant’s guidance.

Key Takeaway: The Formal Collar is the ultimate sign of commitment in a BDSM dynamic, representing long-term devotion and trust.

Materials: These collars are often made from high-quality leather, metal, or custom designs that may include locks, padlocks, or D-rings. Some may even be engraved or personalized with the submissive’s or Dominant’s initials.
Purpose: This collar is a strong symbol of ownership and devotion, marking the submissive as “owned” by the Dominant. It is usually worn 24/7 and often mirrors the seriousness of an engagement or marriage in vanilla relationships.
Ceremony: Many couples may engage in a formal collaring ceremony to mark this significant milestone in their relationship, similar to exchanging wedding vows.

4. Protection Collar

A protection collar is given to a submissive by a Dominant who wishes to offer their protection, particularly in public BDSM settings such as play parties or community events. This type of collar symbolizes that the submissive is under the care of the Dominant, even if they are not in a formal or long-term dynamic. The protection collar serves as a visible sign to others within the community that the submissive is "off-limits," indicating that they are under the watch and care of the Dominant, and should be respected as such.

The materials used for a protection collar can vary, depending on the nature of the relationship and the situation. Some Dominants may choose leather or chain collars for a more traditional look, while others might opt for something simpler, like a necklace, that can easily blend into more casual or public environments. Regardless of the material, the purpose remains the same: to communicate to others that the submissive is not available for interactions outside of the Dominant’s approval.

Key Takeaway: Protection Collars serve as a way for Dominants to protect submissives in public, without implying long-term ownership or relationship status.

Materials: These collars are usually practical and can range from simple leather designs to more elaborate collars depending on the situation.
Purpose: The collar acts as a shield, indicating that the submissive is under the Dominant’s protection and should not be approached by other Dominants or submissives without permission. This is especially important in public BDSM spaces where protocols are observed.
Duration: Protection collars are often temporary and are sometimes used when the Dominant and submissive are not ready to move into a more committed dynamic but wish to establish boundaries in public.

5. Day Collar (Discreet Collar)

A Day Collar, also known as a Discreet Collar, is designed for everyday wear in non-BDSM settings, allowing the submissive to honor their dynamic in a subtle and unobtrusive way. It typically resembles regular jewelry, such as a necklace, choker, or bracelet, so it can easily be worn in public without drawing attention to the BDSM aspect of the relationship.

These collars are often made from delicate materials like chain, silver, or gemstones, giving them the appearance of conventional jewelry while still holding personal significance for the wearer. The purpose of a day collar is largely symbolic, offering the submissive a way to stay connected to their Dominant emotionally and psychologically, even in professional or social environments where overt BDSM symbols may not be appropriate.

The key feature of a day collar is its discretion—it blends seamlessly into everyday life while maintaining the deep bond between the Dominant and submissive. Ultimately, day collars serve as a subtle, yet meaningful reminder of the submissive’s commitment to their Dominant, allowing them to carry that connection with them throughout their daily routines.

Key Takeaway: Day collars are meant for daily wear and serve as a discreet symbol of the submissive’s commitment to their Dominant.

Materials: These collars are often crafted from more delicate materials like chain, silver, or gemstones, resembling conventional jewelry.
Purpose: Day collars are symbolic, allowing the submissive to feel connected to their Dominant without drawing attention to their BDSM dynamic in a professional or social environment.
Discretion: The main goal of a day collar is to blend into everyday life while maintaining the emotional and psychological connection between the Dominant and submissive.

6. Play Collar (Session Collar)

A Play Collar, also referred to as a Session Collar, is specifically designed for use during BDSM scenes or play sessions. These collars are intended for short-term wear, with a focus on functionality and ease of use, making them quick to put on or take off, which is particularly useful during scenes that involve physical restraint or other activities requiring flexibility.

Play collars are typically crafted from durable materials like leather, neoprene, or metal to withstand the demands of BDSM play. They often feature O-rings or D-rings that allow for the attachment of leashes, chains, or other bondage tools, emphasizing their practical role in the dynamic. Unlike other collars that may carry deep emotional or symbolic significance, play collars are primarily functional, designed for physical restraint and as a tool for Dominance and submission during scenes.

Once the play session ends, the play collar is usually removed, as it does not symbolize long-term commitment and is not meant to be worn outside of the scene. Play collars are intended for temporary, practical use during an active BDSM scene.

Key Takeaway: Play collars are meant for functional use during BDSM scenes, allowing for easy attachment and removal.

Materials: Typically made from durable materials like leather, neoprene, or metal, these collars are often equipped with O-rings or D-rings to attach leashes, chains, or other bondage tools.
Purpose: Play collars are functional, intended for BDSM play, and may not carry the deep emotional or symbolic meaning of other collars. They are often used for physical restraint or as part of Dominance and submission during play.
Session Use: Once the play session is over, the play collar is typically removed. It doesn't symbolize long-term commitment and is usually not worn outside of scenes.

7. Posture Collar

A Posture Collar is a functional device specifically designed to restrict the movement of the submissive's neck, compelling them to maintain a particular posture during a BDSM scene. While it doesn’t necessarily symbolize commitment, it serves as a tool for control, discipline, and enhancing the dynamic between Dominant and submissive.

Typically made from stiff leather, metal, or reinforced materials, posture collars are taller than standard collars, limiting the submissive’s ability to move their head freely. This restriction emphasizes discipline by forcing the submissive to keep their head high and maintain proper posture, reinforcing a sense of control and focus during scenes. The posture collar is often used in training or play to instill a heightened awareness of the submissive's body positioning and obedience to the Dominant's instructions.

Posture collars are meant for temporary use, worn only during play or training sessions, and are typically removed afterward. They are not intended for daily or permanent wear. Posture collars provide both physical and psychological control, enhancing the power dynamic and discipline during BDSM scenes or training sessions.

Key Takeaway: Posture collars are designed to restrict movement, providing both physical and psychological control during BDSM scenes or training.

Materials: Typically made from stiff leather, metal, or reinforced materials, posture collars are taller than regular collars and restrict head movement.
Purpose: These collars are often used in training or play to emphasize discipline, forcing the submissive to hold their head high and maintain proper posture. It can be a tool to enhance the submissive’s sense of control and focus.
Temporary Use: Posture collars are typically worn only during play or training sessions and are removed afterward. They are not meant for daily or permanent wear.

Submissive collars in BDSM represent various stages of a relationship, from the initial exploration with the Collar of Consideration to the deep, lifelong commitment symbolized by a Formal Collar. Each collar carries unique meanings, and they evolve as the dynamic between a Dominant and submissive deepens. Whether for symbolic, functional, or emotional purposes, collars play a central role in expressing the power exchange and trust within BDSM relationships.

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