Since the collar is the problem zone, give it a little extra attention. When you wash, make sure the collar is fully turned out and not bunched up with other clothes. You can also hand-wash just the collar area with a mild detergent if it's really prone to pilling—some people do a quick scrub with a soft brush before tossing the shirt in the wash.

When you wear it, think about what's rubbing against it. A smooth cotton scarf will cause far less pilling than a chunky knit. Same with jackets—something lined with polyester or nylon is easier on the collar than rough wool. It's not about dressing like you're in a bubble, just being aware of what touches your neck.