The Best Flannel Shirts For Women
The traditional flannel shirt is a versatile wardrobe staple. With pastoral plaid hues and insulating materials, they're just as well-suited to excursions into the great outdoors as they are to lounging around the house. We've taken stock of some of the best on the market today, with a few unconventional designs thrown in to keep you on your toes.
What to Look For
We wouldn’t judge you for assuming that all flannel shirts are made the same, but if you focus on a few key qualities while you shop, you could be in with a better chance of finding the look you seek. Namely, we suggest focusing on the quality of the material, the fit, and the degree of insulation the flannel provides. Our favorite flannel overall is the tried and tested Cottage Escape piece from Legendary Whitetails. This classic design does things by the book, offering the trademark softness and warmth of pure cotton. But if you’re looking to add a touch of luxury to your wardrobe, take a look at the exquisite board wool flannel from Pendleton. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks.
Legendary Whitetails Cottage Escape Flannel Shirt
Stick to the classics
These flannels from Legendary Whitetails hit the nail on the head with a host of traditional plaid patterns and a classic fit that’s sure to feel familiar. With the gentle comfort of pure cotton, you’ll be snug and warm whether wearing these shirts as an outer layer or against bare skin. And with a wide range of sizes on offer, there’s an option here for everyone.
Pros:
- The chambray-lined collars and cuffs help prevent chafing at the openings and provide excellent insulation.
- We appreciate the extra storage space offered by the twin chest pockets. Their subtle off-pattern detailing is a nice detail, too.
Cons:
- Ladies with a bigger chest may want to size up as this shirt may feel a bit tight.
Legendary Whitetails Lumber Lane Hooded Flannel Shirt
Warming comforts
Pair your favorite flannel with a hoodie, and the result is a versatile combination between a shirt and a jacket. This integrated design from Legendary Whitetails combines the best of both worlds in a single garment. This thick, jersey-lined hoodie will work wonders in a cold snap, with two classic drawstrings allowing you to buckle up as tight as needs dictate. Once you’re ready for freshness, all you have to do is pop open the top buttons and let that hood hang low.
Pros:
- Snap buttons replace traditional buttons on this shirt, making it easier to close the shirt.
- The roomy, relaxed fit leaves plenty of space for layers beneath.
Cons:
- This cotton flannel isn’t quite as soft as some alternatives, but you might be less likely to wear this option over bare skin alone anyway.
Floerns Tartan Color Block Plaid Button Down Blouse
Forward-thinking fashionistas might not feel immediately inclined to reach for a classic flannel shirt if they’re looking to break paradigms on the catwalk. This playful reimagining of traditional flannels proves that there’s more to explore here than the lumberjack look. With its bold and contemporary paneled design, it’s an eye-catcher like few others.
Pros:
- This design comes in several length varieties, so you can opt for a crop top or an extra-long look.
- The detailed sizing chart should help you find the perfect fit with no surprises.
Cons:
- This polyester-blended fabric doesn’t compare to pure cotton or wool in softness and insulation.
Dickies Long Sleeve Plaid Flannel Shirt
Work it, girl
Thanks to its insulating warmth and durable construction, the humble flannel shirt has been a favorite workwear garment, especially for outdoor use. And since Dickies know the score when it comes to manufacturing garments that last, it’s no surprise that these handsome flannels found a spot in our top picks. This shirt’s double-brushed cotton construction results in next-level softness you’ll be sure to appreciate.
Pros:
- These shirts come in a colorful range of patterns, spanning from fine plaid detailing to wider checkered designs.
- Again, we have to emphasize how good this shirt is for the price.
Cons:
- This roomy fit leaves plenty of room to maneuver inside, but it can result in a boxier look than some fitted shirts.
Pendleton Long Sleeve Board Wool Shirt
Soft and suave
With classic designs, sometimes it pays to invest in the best materials. These subtle flannel shirts are spun from the finest Umatilla wool, bringing an extra touch of softness and insulation compared to the standard cotton. Though they have the elevated price tag to match, if you’re looking for unparalleled comfort, we think they’re worth every penny.
Pros:
- The two front pockets offer a bit more storage than the average flannel, and their flapped covers will prevent the contents from slipping out.
- This fitted form could result in a more flattering fit than baggier alternatives.
Cons:
- Wool needs a little extra care on laundry day to prevent shrinking.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I best care for cotton?
Natural fibers require a little extra pampering on laundry day than your standard fare. To reduce the risk of shrinkage when machine-washing, be sure to carefully consult the manufacturer’s guidance on temperature and spin cycle. We also recommend air drying for the best results.
What is cotton flannel?
Flannel is a mid-weight cotton variety that is loved for its fuzzy softness and insulating warmth. The rough finish is a result of brushing and its characteristically loose weave, resulting in a distinctive softness that’s soothingly gentle on the skin. What’s more, flannel tends to soften with age, so cherish that favorite shirt and it will treat you kindly in return.
About the Author
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Since 2001, our experts at TheFashionSpot have been providing millions of people with our take on the latest trends. TheFashionSpot is constantly looking for the hottest styles in clothing and accessories for people of all body types. Our team knows that beauty starts well before the closet, so we are also dedicated to finding the best products for your skin and hair.