Flannel shirt quick picks
Brushed flannel shirt: Madewell Men’s Easy Shirt in Brushed Flannel
Fleece-lined shacket: ThCreasa Sherpa Fleece-Lined Shacket
Western-style shirt: Gap Flannel Western Shirt
Striped tunic: Lands’ End Women’s A-Line Striped Tunic
Flannel shirtdress: Billy T Always Fun Plaid Shirtdress
Praised for their versatility, flannel shirts are a winter fashion staple for men and women for a reason. Don’t believe us? Just ask stylist Jackie Schiavone. “There is something so warm and cozy about a flannel shirt,” Schiavone says. “Originally designed as a utility button-down, flannels became a mainstream staple with the invention of the boyfriend shirt. This year, we are seeing more feminine silhouettes and romantic collars, making flannel shirts wearable for a variety of occasions.”
Schiavone adds that flannel and plaid are often connected but stresses that flannel shouldn’t be mistaken for the latter. Flannel refers to the weaving technique used to create a “warm, soft, napped fabric,” she says, which she points out was initially made from wool. “Plaid is a fabric pattern where color lines intersect to create a variety of shapes and styles. Many flannels are now manufactured in cotton, making them more accessible and versatile.” Used to produce everything from dresses to pajamas, flannel can be worn year-round, according to Schiavone, which is good news for anyone wanting to wear flannel into the spring and summer. She also recommends purchasing a few high-quality flannel pieces this season since the choices will be more limited during the “offseason.”
Jordan Tonniges, a stylist at LookingGlass, says that, for men, “vintage-inspired prints and earthy tones are trending, giving that timeless lumberjack vibe a fresh, modern update.” On the other hand, she says oversized, boyfriend-style flannels paired with leggings, layered under sweaters or belted are currently in for women. In addition to seeing more flannel shirts with feminine silhouettes this year, Schiavone says we can expect to see romantic collars on flannels too. Shackets, which stylist Jana Meister says are “a cross between the traditional flannel shirt with the structure of a jacket,” are also among the flannel trends. “Shackets are meant to be worn on days that aren’t warm enough for short sleeves and days that a traditional coat or jacket would be a little too heavy,” Meister says. “They make great layering pieces and also can add some color or pattern to an otherwise basic look.”
To help you find the best flannel shirts for this season and beyond, we interviewed several fashion stylists who shared their tips for shopping for flannel shirts, along with their recommendations.
Best flannel shirts
For women
Lands’ End Ruffle-Front Flannel Popover Blouse
Schiavone is a fan of this popover blouse from Lands’ End. “This updated ’90s classic is made with a super-soft flannel fabric that is lightweight and drapey,” she says. She notes that the neckline and the ruffle give the shirt a more feminine quality. She also adds that the hemline can be tucked in or left out when styling.
$65 From $39 at Amazon
$65 $39 at Target
$65 $45 at Macy’s
Madewell Relaxed Straight-Hem Button-Up Shirt in Plaid
Tonniges likes Madewell’s flannels, which she says are stylish and perfect for day-to-day wear. “This Relaxed Straight-Hem Flannel offers a laid-back fit with trendy plaid patterns, making it ideal for pairing with leggings or jeans for a cozy-casual vibe,” she says. “You can even belt it to create a chic shirtdress look!” Made from 100% cotton, this shirt has a relaxed fit and comes in two colors.
$98 From $40 at Madewell
Patagonia Canyonite Flannel Shirt
Meister recommends this flannel shirt from Patagonia, which she says is perfect for daily wear. Available in five colors, this long-sleeve shirt is made from a quick-drying polyester and spandex performance-stretch flannel. The top, which can be bought in sizes XS to XXL, also has a center-front snap placket and chest pockets.
$139 $69 at Patagonia
Rails Angelica Shirt
Schiavone singles out this chic shirt from Rails. “This romantic flannel shirt is made from a lightweight vintage flannel and features puff sleeves, shirring at the cuffs and horn buttons, giving it an elevated style perfect for a date night out or entertaining at home,” she says.
$188 From $131 at Rails
ThCreasa Sherpa Fleece-Lined Shacket
“Although this shacket is made from polyester, it’s considered a flannel because of the brushed material,” Schiavone says. This sherpa-lined shirt features a plaid pattern and chest pockets. “The winter-white base color of this shacket will complement your skin tone and help to stave off the winter blues,” she says.
$47 From $39 at Amazon
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