THE BEST FLANNEL SHIRTS FOR WOMEN AND HOW TO WEAR THEM

A quintessential element of the lumberjack uniform, classic flannel shirts have long been a men’s workwear staple. But the design has since been updated to flatter the female form, with multiple fits and diverse color options that render the garment perfect for style-savvy looks. 

Here we’ve gathered some of the best flannel shirts for women—all of which have undergone a high-fashion makeover—and created chic outfit ideas that give them a contemporary cutting-edge feel.

WHAT IS FLANNEL EXACTLY?

First, let’s cover the “flannel versus plaid” basics: Flannel is the material, and plaid is the pattern. Most flannel shirts have a plaid design—not because they need to, but because of the material’s rich history.

Flannel cloth originated in 17th-century Wales when textile workers turned to leftover sheep’s wool to create a comfortable and durable fabric. The material was used to develop reliable work uniforms for laborers across the working-class community.

Plaid’s history stretches back much further. It’s closely associated with the Scottish, who call it tartan. The crisscrossed print has been used by Celtic populations for hundreds, if not thousands, of years. Colors and patterns vary by region and are sometimes clan-specific.

Once flannel rose to prominence, it became the go-to material for weaving tartan designs, hence the association. Workwear shirts often adopted this fabric and pattern combo, but the ’90s grunge movement cemented its cultural ubiquity.

Today, flannel is made from wool, cotton, or synthetic blends. Although the plaid pattern recalls a deep-rooted Celtic past, many clothing brands now create their own interpretations of the traditional woven pattern.

5 OF THE BEST FLANNEL AND PLAID SHIRTS FOR WOMEN

It’s incredible what a bold color combination can achieve, and designer labels continuously push that boundary by revitalizing old favorites. Every season, luxury labels find new ways to wow with creative hues and subtle stitching accents.

Here are five designers that offer some of the best women’s flannel shirts:

TWP

Founded by Trish Wescoat-Pound, TWP is a luxury label focused on reimagining women’s capsule pieces. The brand was born out of a love for men’s button-ups, so it’s no surprise that its flannel shirts carry this passion forward through careful detailing and high-quality fabrics. The lightweight Ranchers Daughter Plaid Shirt features contrast topstitching that adds a touch of texture.

Rails

Rails prioritizes comfort and quality, using premium fabric that allows wearers to feel as great as they look. The creations combine the relaxed fits of Southern California with the sleek sophistication of contemporary lifestyles. Some flannel shirts feature subtle ruffle detailing at the collar that are both understated and interesting.

Lafayette 148 New York

This label knows how to stay ahead of the game. The designs at Lafayette 148 New York glean creativity from various sources, inspired by the ever-changing landscape of the world. The menswear-inspired plaid is woven from premium Italian crepe fabric, lending the blouses an airy feel.

Lyssé

Created by Beth Gold Cohen, Lyssé embodies urban aesthetics for everyday women. The pieces transcend limitations by offering roomy fits that don’t compromise comfort or style. Lyssé’s plaid overshirt borrows side welt pockets from outerwear, creating a charming layering piece.

Amiri

Amiri is a major purveyor of elevated, offbeat patterns; its flannel shirts provide style and rebellion in equal measure. The L.A.-based brand is an excellent fit for rockers at heart, with designs that remain at the forefront of modern-day grunge style. Among the many cool details in Amiri’s plaid shirt collection are raw hems, embroidered logos, and pointed collars.

HOW TO STYLE FLANNEL: 6 OUTFIT COMBINATIONS

Flannel’s biggest draw is the range of patterns and colors it comes in. Slim-fit flannels can be styled similarly to a classic button-up shirt. The long sleeves and chest pockets mirror what we love about the timeless silhouettes of businesswear. Oversized and heavyweight flannels, on the other hand, can be layered over an outfit as a comfy shirt jacket.

Try these six outfit combinations to employ the classic flannel in contemporary ways:

Colored flannel + skirt + heels

There’s something oddly exciting about styling flannel in a feminine way. Select a classic-fit flannel in a colorful pattern, and pair it with a matching skirt. Amp up the elegance with striking heels and a slouchy clutch.

Black-and-white flannel + black corduroy pants + Oxford shoes

Try this simple monochrome outfit to make flannel a chic statement. Begin with a white tank top and a pair of wide-leg black corduroy pants, then layer on a buttoned-up black and white designer flannel shirt in an oversized fit. Finish the outfit with black Oxford shoes, gold hoops, a structured black handbag, and sunglasses.

Blue flannel + white flare jeans + platform sandals

This combo keeps things fresh and lighthearted with bright summer colors. Start with a pair of pure-white flare jeans and black platform sandals, and drape a blue-tone lightweight flannel on top. Add a strand of pearls and a chunky charm necklace, and roll up the sleeves to call attention to stacked silver rings.

Brown flannel shirt + white mini skirt + white knee boots 

Turn to this cute flannel look for a retro Western flair. Pair a white leather mini skirt with a matching white crop top, and step into a pair of high white boots. For the finishing touch, don an oversized flannel shirt in dark brown, a leather handbag, and brown tortoiseshell sunglasses.

Mini-check plaid shirt + leather pants + loafers

Juxtapose the cozy feel of plaid against the edgy attitude of leather in this nonconformist outfit. Pair either a dark-tone designer plaid shirt with black leather or a soft-colored shirt with brown leather. Regardless of the chosen color scheme, the look is best complemented by matching loafers and a blazer.

Vibrant plaid shirt + trench coat + ankle boots

It may seem unusual to combine a cozy flannel and a timeless trench coat, but the look is sublime. For this outfit, match a vibrant plaid long-sleeve flannel with a pair of coordinated silk pants. Then, cover up with a classic beige trench and a crossbody bag. White pointed-toe ankle boots add a stark contrast to this colorful look.

MAKE EVERY PIECE COUNT

No matter the occasion, proper styling can make any top shine. Explore our editorial archive, where Neiman Marcus provides inspiration and insight on new and exciting looks. Learn how to style a denim shirt, an oversized shirt, or a ’90s-inspired outfit.