Collar (BDSM)
In a BDSM context, a collar is a device of any material placed around the neck of the submissive partner (sub).The most common material is leather, and many people use actual dog collars with a buckle. Other materials include rubber, PVC, and metal. Collars may be decorated in various ways, and often feature buckles, straps and hooks, padlocks and other attachments. The standard colour is black, however variation is possible, including elegant necklaces. Some collars are lockable, and thus may only be removed by the Dom.
Collars have varying degrees of significance for people in the BDSM community. A person wearing a collar may wish by doing so to make it known that she or he is submissive. Wearing a collar may similarly be a signal to others that the submissive is "owned" by or is in a relationship with a dominant (Dom). Collars may also be a symbol of the relationship or of the sub's submission to the dom. Collars are used in some role playing games to lead the sub around on a leash.
A person wearing a collar to symbolise their relationship with another is said to be collared -- some people conduct formal "collaring ceremonies" which are regarded as effectively solemnising their relationship in the same way as a marriage ceremony.
Few subs wear their collars all the time; as a fashion accessory they are becoming more common, but not sufficiently so that they would go unnoticed, particularly if worn by men. Many choose to wear their collars only when in private with their partners, or with other members of the BDSM community.