How to Layer Flannel Shirts
A flannel shirt is a staple apparel piece, especially during the fall and winter months. Flannel shirts are also thicker than T-shirts, meaning you’ll have extra protection against chilly weather. They’re also available in seasonal colors (they match perfectly with the falling, changing leaves!). Quality flannel shirts are ideal as the base for stylish casual outfits. Yes, you can dress these tops up if you like. However, flannel shirts work best when paired with other casual pieces.
You may be wondering, “What are flannel shirts?” Some people may confuse flannel shirts with plaid shirts. Though plenty of flannel shirts feature a plaid pattern, flannel refers to the fabric type, not the pattern. Flannel can be made of wool or cotton, and this fabric type is used for comfy pajamas, blankets, and shirts. Flannel is soft and traps heat, which is why it’s ideal during colder seasons.
You can layer flannel shirts in plenty of ways, depending on your style and destination. We’ve gathered some tips on how to layer your flannel shirts, whether you’re heading to a farmers’ market or the grocery store for ingredients for that apple pie.
Short or Long-Sleeved T-Shirts
An obvious choice for layering with flannel shirts is a laid-back T-shirt. For warmer days, you can opt for wearing a short-sleeved tee under a flannel shirt. However, if it’s a bit cold outside, consider wearing a long-sleeved T-shirt under your flannel. Flannel over women’s T-shirts creates that casually cool vibe. Since flannel shirts are usually colorful, you can wear a solid tee underneath. However, no one’s stopping you from rocking a graphic T-shirt under your flannel shirt for a statement-making look. For another stylish approach, try a cropped tee under your flannel. Finally, if you get a little too warm while wearing your flannel shirt over another top, consider tying your flannel around your waist, another common and stylish way to layer flannel.
Denim Jackets
Denim over a flannel shirt creates that ultimate layered look. There are plenty of ways you can express your style by rocking a denim jacket. A classic light-, medium-, or dark-washed blue denim jacket is stylish enough. Plus, blue denim jackets match well with almost every type of flannel shirt. Other neutral shade denim jackets, such as white and black, will pair well with most of your flannel. However, consider switching things up when choosing the denim to wear with your flannel. Denim jackets are available in various rainbow colors—from pastel lavender and pink to bright yellow and bold red. Unlike neutral tones, you’ll have to ensure these types of colored denim jackets don’t clash with your flannel.
You can also find denim featuring embellishments, such as faux pearls, rhinestones, distressing, and faux fur. Finally, consider switching up your denim’s fit too. An oversized denim jacket can really take an outfit to the next level.
Hoodies
If you’re running an errand or just bonding with friends at a football game, a hoodie paired with a flannel shirt is an extremely casual outfit choice that’ll keep you warm, too. Anyone can rock this look with the flannel shirt styled over the hoodie. For ultimate comfort, look for hoodies with a fleece lining that provides warmth. Bonus points if the hoodie features pockets for warmth for your hands and additional storage.
Leggings
Now, for your bottoms. Leggings are the epitome of cozy comfort during the fall and winter. Plus, leggings go with almost any apparel piece, including flannel. Oversized flannel shirts look especially great when paired with leggings. Like T-shirts, you’ll want to choose your leggings based on the look you’re going for. Flannels usually consist of various colors, so you can’t go wrong with pairing your flannel with black, white, gray, or any other solid leggings. However, think of other ways you can spice up your flannel outfit. Consider leather or velvet leggings or leggings featuring a pattern or embellishments.
Skinny Jeans
Finally, skinny jeans are a great choice for bottoms to pair with your flannel. Due to the versatility skinny jeans offer, you have plenty of outfit choices. Plus, as the other apparel pieces mentioned, you have a range of jeans to choose from—classic blue, distressed, black, and so much more. There’s something about the effortless look a flannel and skinny jeans outfit exudes. You can really kick or outfit up a notch by pairing your skinny jeans and flannel with a denim jacket—you’ll definitely be checking off a couple of trends.
Flannel shirts are comfortable, stylish, and versatile pieces you need for your wardrobe once fall arrives. Complete your flannel outfits with the right pair of shoes—think lifestyle sneakers for the days you’ll be running plenty of errands and booties and boots for a chic look. Finally, think of other ways you can elevate your flannel outfits—such as by wearing beanies, over-the-knee socks, or sunglasses. Once winter rolls around, layer your stylish cold-weather-ready coats over your flannel. When layered with other stylish pieces, you can wear flannel shirts to plenty of places—work, holiday shopping, and bonfires with friends. A flannel shirt is definitely a wardrobe workhorse!