It’s a fabric made from soft-brushed cotton (typical of the flannel shirt) or wool (typical of the flannel suit) that tends to be thick and soft. A flannel button-up shirt is one of those universally appealing articles of clothing that every man can rock, from wood-splitting outdoorsmen to urban office workers. And since the air has turned crisp and we’re officially in peak foliage season, it’s the perfect time to add a few flannels to your wardrobe.
The versatile fabric breathes when you’re layering, insulates on windy days, and survives both campfires and conference rooms with equal grace. And, if you thought flannel was a pattern, you’re probably thinking of plaid, the wide crosshatch of lines reminiscent of classic Scottish tartan patterns. Don’t get us wrong, we love a good plaid flannel, but flannel shirts also come in solids, herringbones, and checks, so you can really diversify your flannel collection.
No matter what you like, there’s a flannel shirt here for you. This classic chamois shirt from L.L. Bean is our overall favorite flannel, the one we have in our mind when talking about the style.
The brand’s chamois fabric is soft and warm, and the traditional fit isn’t too baggy nor too slim. It also has two flap pockets on the chest that are great for storing your small everyday carry items. The brand does make the chamois shirt in plaid if you want a more traditional flannel style, but we love the simple solids.
Filson’s Alaskan Guide Shirt is the core of the brand’s flannel collection due to its tight weave for durability, soft and warm brushed fabric, button-down design, and adjustable cuffs. It’s a great, more rugged option for any outdoorsmen who want something durable yet comfortable. For something moody and modern, we really love the take from Stockholm-based brand Our Legacy.
You want a leveled-up version of an Americana classic? We tend to take an everyman approach to flannel—it’s a work fabric, after all—but Michael Rider’s Celine is really testing that stance. Yes, it’s outrageously priced, but it’s perfected to the smallest degree, from brushed cashmere yarns that blow regular cotton out of the water to that finished flat hem.
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