How to Style A Flannel Top (A Women’s Style Guide)

Whether you’re headed to the office, brunch with friends, a casual outing, or even a special event, incorporating a flannel top into your wardrobe can effortlessly elevate your style game. With tips and insights on choosing the right color flannel top and styling suggestions, you’ll have all the tools you need to make the flannel top your new go-to piece. So get ready to upgrade your wardrobe and learn how to create a flannel outfit. I promise that you’ll be looking great no matter the occasion. Let’s dive in!

How To Style a Flannel

Flannel tops can come in various colors, ranging from traditional earthy tones to vibrant hues. The great thing about flannel is its versatility. And how you wear your flannel will depend on your own personal style. Whether you like to dress girly, feminine, or minimalist or have opted for an edgier street-style aesthetic, flannel will work for you.

In this article, we’ll explore the various ways to incorporate a flannel top into your wardrobe. From selecting the perfect shirt to picking the right colors, plus the best ways to style it for different occasions.

What Is A Flannel?

Flannel is a type of fabric that is known for its softness and warmth. It’s commonly made from cotton or wool fibers that are tightly woven, resulting in a brushed surface that gives flannel material its characteristic texture. The brushing process helps to create tiny loops that trap air, providing insulation to keep you cozy during cooler seasons and winter months.

Flannel has a long history dating back to the 17th century. It was originally used for outdoor clothing by Welsh and Scottish farmers due to its excellent insulation properties. Over time, flannel became increasingly popular and found its way into various fashion styles and trends. This soft woven fabric traditionally features a plaid pattern of intersecting horizontal and vertical stripes. This classic pattern evokes a sense of warmth and rustic charm. However, in recent years, designers have expanded the range of flannel prints and designs. It’s easier now than ever to find options catering to a wider range of personal styles.

There is one thing to pay attention to when shopping for your tops. Not all flannel has a plaid pattern; flannel cloth can come in a single solid color. And not all plaid prints are made from flannel.

When to Wear Flannel

The great thing about flannel is its versatility. While it’s often associated with grunge fashion and casual outfits, flannel tops can be easily dressed up or down. A flannel shirt with jeans, a white t-shirt, and sneakers creates a laid-back, casual outfit perfect for weekend outings. On the other hand, combining a flannel top with tailored pants or a skirt and accessorizing with statement jewelry can elevate the outfit, making it suitable for more formal events or chic settings.

Whether you’re dressing for a casual day out, a work meeting, or a social event, a plaid shirt has the ability to transition seamlessly from one style to another.

Different Types of Flannel Shirt Outfits

Casual Flannel Outfits

To create a casual everyday look with a flannel top, opt for a more relaxed fit of a slightly oversized top. Flannel tops in classic colors like blue, red, or green. These timeless colors lend themselves well to a casual aesthetic and can easily be paired with various bottoms.

You can pair your flannel top with your favorite jeans for a simple yet stylish outfit. Whether it’s skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, or even high-waisted mom jeans, the contrast between casual denim and cozy flannel creates a comfortable and effortlessly cool look. To further elevate the outfit, consider rolling up the sleeves of your flannel top and adding some delicate jewelry for a feminine touch.

Sporty Flannel Outfits

Try layering a flannel shirt over a crop top or sports bra for a cool, relaxed outfit that resonates with a sporty spirit. Tie the flannel around your waist for a touch of added style, and opt for casual white sneakers or athletic shoes to complete the look. This effortless combination of flannel and sporty elements can elevate your outfit while keeping you comfortable and ready for any active endeavor.

Additionally, flannel can also enhance your athleisure style. Combine a flannel top with sleek leggings or a onesie. Then, add some stylish sneakers for a chic and sporty appearance. (The New Balance 9060s are a great option.) Complete the ensemble with a baseball cap or a sporty beanie to add an extra athletic edge. The contrast between the soft flannel fabric and the streamlined athletic elements creates a visually appealing outfit perfect for casual hangouts and low-intensity workouts.

Business Casual Flannel Shirt Outfits

One way to elevate a flannel top is by pairing it with a sleek and tailored blazer. Combining the structured blazer and the relaxed flannel creates a balanced, polished outfit perfect for a business casual setting or dinner date. Choose a blazer in neutral colors that match well with the tones of your flannel.

To add a feminine touch to your smart casual look, consider layering the flannel underneath a fitted cardigan or a soft cashmere sweater. This layering technique adds warmth that’s a great choice for cold weather and creates a cozy but stylish ensemble that’s ideal for the office, a coffee date, or a weekend brunch with friends. Complete the look with slim-fit black jeans or tailored trousers and a pair of dress shoes to maintain a sophisticated silhouette.

Different Color Flannel Shirt Outfits

Flannel shirts come in almost any color, from soft pink and bright yellow to navy blue and olive green. But below are the seven most common colors in flannel plaid shirts.

Black Flannel

The black flannel shirt is a must-have for those looking to add a touch of sophistication to their flannel collection. While flannel may traditionally be associated with a more casual aesthetic, black flannel effortlessly elevates any outfit with its sleek and polished appearance. I love a black button-down shirt, with black pants and black Chelsea boots for a monochrome outfit.

A black plaid shirt also lends itself well to dressier occasions. When paired with a skirt, it can create a classy and refined look that is perfect for a night out or a special event.

White Flannel

From its ability to add a crisp and clean aesthetic to its ability to pair seamlessly with various outfits, the white flannel offers a fresh but refined twist on the classic flannel look.

Red Flannel

The red flannel shirt also has the power to evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Its rich hues and cozy fabric bring to mind images of crisp autumn days, hot cocoa by the fire, and long walks through colorful forests. Incorporating a red flannel into your outfit adds a touch of style, comfort, and familiarity.

One of the great things about the red flannel is its versatility. It can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, making it a reliable choice for any wardrobe. Pair it with black trousers and heels for a polished and professional outfit, or wear it with blue jeans and ankle boots for a classic look that’s still laid-back for a chill weekend.

Green Flannel

Like its red counterpart, the green flannel carries a certain charm that effortlessly elevates outfits from casual to chic. With its earthy tones and natural appeal, the green shades captivate with their earthy charm, inviting thoughts of tranquil forest walks and a connection to nature. Wear it as an outer layer over a tank top or t-shirt to ward off chilly weather or even as a flannel hoodie.

Brown Flannel

Just as the green flannel evokes a sense of nature and tranquility, the brown flannel brings warmth and richness to your wardrobe. With its earthy hues and cozy texture, a brown flannel is a great way to elevate your casual attire with a touch of sophistication. With its neutral tones and effortless charm, the brown flannel is a versatile piece that seamlessly transitions from casual to chic.

Grey Flannel

The allure of the grey flannel lies not only in its ability to elevate your style but also in its comfort. The soft, cozy texture of the fabric offers warmth during the colder months while still maintaining a lightweight feel. This makes it perfect for layering or wearing alone, depending on the weather and your personal style preference.

One of the key advantages of the gray flannel is its ability to complement a wide range of colors and styles. Pair it with classic black trousers or a sleek pencil skirt for a polished office look. Add a pop of color by layering it over a vibrant blouse, or team it with dark denim and black boots for a more casual yet put-together outfit. The versatility of the grey flannel allows you to create many looks, making it an essential piece in your wardrobe.

Whether you opt for a light grey or a darker charcoal shade, this timeless fabric adds a touch of refinement to any ensemble.

Blue Flannel

From deep navy hues to playful denim-like tones, blue flannel offers a refreshing twist that easily transitions your wardrobe from season to season. With its versatility, the blue flannel can be dressed up or down, making it a perfect addition to any fashion-forward closet. Not only does it complement a variety of skin tones, but it also pairs beautifully with other colors, allowing you to create endless outfit combinations.

Ways To Style A Flannel

From sporting a flannel under a jacket to donning it as a dress or skirt, the possibilities for styling flannel are almost endless. Experiment with different flannel styles, pairings, and accessories to create unique and stylish looks that reflect your personal taste. Whether you prefer to follow fashion trends or have more of a timeless style, you will never run out of outfit ideas.
The bottom line is fashion is not just about the clothes you wear, but the story you tell with them.

Under A Jacket

To achieve the perfect layered look, pay attention to the fit and length of both your flannel shirt and jacket. The flannel should be slim enough to fit underneath the jacket comfortably without creating too much bulk. Similarly, the jacket should be slightly looser to accommodate the extra layer. This balance ensures a streamlined and balanced silhouette.

When it comes to color coordination, the possibilities are endless. You can go for a monochromatic look by pairing a black flannel with a black leather jacket or create a visually striking contrast by combining a vibrant flannel with a neutral-toned jacket. Experiment with different combinations to find what speaks to your personal style.

When choosing a jacket to pair with your flannel, consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. For a casual, effortless vibe, opt for a denim jacket. The rugged texture of denim can beautifully complement the softness of flannel, creating a balanced and laid-back outfit. A tailored blazer or leather jacket can do the trick if you’re aiming for a more polished and sophisticated look. These structured pieces provide a sharp contrast to the relaxed nature of flannel.

Regarding styling, leave the flannel untucked for a more relaxed and casual vibe. This allows the flannel’s distinctive patterns and textures to shine and adds an effortless touch to your outfit. If you prefer a more refined look, tuck the flannel into your pants and add a belt for a polished finish. This tailored approach can elevate the overall sophistication of your outfit.

As A Jacket

One stylish way to wear a flannel jacket is to pair it with jeans and boots for a casual yet put-together look. Choose a jacket that hits at the hip or slightly below to create a flattering silhouette. Layer the flannel jacket over a neutral-colored top or T-shirt for a balanced and coordinated outfit.

If you want to take your outfit to the next level of sophistication, try wearing a flannel jacket with tailored pants and heels. This combination adds a touch of refinement to the typically casual flannel fabric. Select a jacket that falls just below the waist and matches the color scheme of your outfit. Pair it with high-waisted trousers or a skirt for a polished and chic ensemble that can easily transition from the office to a dinner date.

Wearing a flannel jacket not only provides style options but also practical benefits. The added layer can provide extra warmth during colder seasons, making it a perfect choice for fall or winter outings. Whether strolling through a pumpkin patch or enjoying a cozy evening bonfire, the flannel jacket’s combination of comfort and fashion will keep you looking effortlessly chic.

A Flannel With a Hoodie

Wear a flannel with a hoodie to take the casual cool factor up a notch. This laid-back yet stylish combination adds a touch of urban flair to your outfit.

Consider the color and pattern combination when wearing a flannel with a hoodie. Opt for a flannel with bold or subtle patterns, depending on your personal style and preference. Whether it’s a classic plaid or a more modern checkered pattern, the choice is yours. Pair it with a solid-colored hoodie for a sleek and cohesive look, or mix and match patterns for a more daring and eclectic outfit.

Incorporate other elements that complement the flannel and hoodie combo to complete the look. For a streetwear-inspired ensemble, throw on a pair of distressed jeans and some high-top sneakers. Opt for black skinny jeans and ankle boots for a more polished look. Layering the flannel with a hoodie allows you to experiment with different textures, such as leather or denim jackets, to add more dimension to your outfit. If you want more ideas for flannel outfits, you’ll find How To Style An Oversized Flannel helpful.

Flannel With Jeans

Consider pairing your flannel top with a classic pair of jeans for a versatile and timeless look. Combining these two wardrobe staples seamlessly merges casual comfort with chic style, making it perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re going for a relaxed streetwear vibe or aiming for a more polished appearance, flannel and jeans always make a winning combination.

Opt for a pair of distressed jeans and some high-top sneakers to achieve a streetwear-inspired outfit. The worn-in aesthetic of the distressed denim effortlessly complements the laid-back vibes of the flannel top. Complete the look with some statement sneakers, and you’ll have a fashionable outfit that exudes cool confidence.

If you prefer a more polished and put-together look, black skinny jeans and ankle boots are the way to go. The sleek and slimming silhouette of black skinny jeans adds a touch of sophistication to the ensemble. Pair them with ankle boots for an extra dose of style and a hint of edginess.

Flannel with Shorts

This unexpected combination offers a fresh and stylish take on the casual-chic aesthetic, allowing you to create effortlessly fashionable looks for any occasion. Although this outfit may not be the best option for the winter season, pairing it with some tall leather boots will make a super cute fall transition outfit.

A Flannel Dress

Wearing a flannel dress is an excellent way to switch up your outfit game during the fall. Whether you’re headed to a casual brunch or a more formal event, a flannel dress can be effortlessly styled to suit any occasion. Pair with a pair of tall leather or suede boots for the perfect fall outfit.

A Flannel With a Skirt

If you prefer a more feminine approach, try styling a flannel top with a skirt. The beauty of pairing a flannel with a skirt lies in all the styling options. You can opt for a mini, midi, or maxi length depending on your personal style and the occasion you’re dressing for. For a casual outing, pair a flannel mini skirt with a graphic tee and ankle boots for an effortlessly cool look. Alternatively, a flannel midi skirt paired with a tucked-in blouse and heels will exude elegance and sophistication if you’re heading to a more formal event.

My favorite styling combo is pairing a looser flannel with pencil or midi skirts. The loose top balances out the structured silhouette in an understated but sexy way. This combination of textures and styles creates an interesting juxtaposition that is perfect for a casual, everyday look.

Opt for a high-waisted midi skirt in a flowy fabric like silk or chiffon. Tuck your black flannel top into the skirt to create a defined waistline and a more put-together feel. Finish off the look with heels or ankle boots, and you’ll be ready to turn heads wherever you go.

As Flannel Pants

One of the great aspects of flannel pants is their ability to be styled for any season. In the summer, opt for a pair of cropped flannel pants and pair them with plain t-shirts. This combination keeps you cool and comfortable, adding a laid-back charm to your look. As temperatures drop, you can easily transition these pants into fall by layering them with cozy sweaters and chunky knits. Complete the outfit with ankle boots or heels to elevate your style further. You can read How To Style Plaid Pants for more inspo and ideas.

What’s Your Favorite Way To Wear Your Plaid?

We’ve gone over various ways in which a flannel top can elevate your wardrobe from casual to chic. So, go ahead and find your own unique way to wear your plaid. Have fun experimenting with different styles, pairings, and accessories to create unique and stylish looks of your own. Embrace the versatility and timeless appeal of a flannel top and make it a staple in your wardrobe.

Xx Monti