Flannel shirts aren't exactly mainstays in fashion. That's because they're more closely associated with the 90s grunge scene, which, at the time, was more about musical substance than style. Sure, there have been repeated attempts over the years to revitalize grunge, from Grunge 2.0 to Grunge 10.8. Bottega Veneta recently tried its own renaissance by sending Kate Moss down its Spring 2023 runway in a perfectly plaid shirt. Since then, people have been searching the internet to discover exactly how to style a flannel shirt. The search stops here.
Just to be clear, not every plaid shirt qualifies as flannel. Plaid is just a pattern, whereas flannel is a material. Over the years the two have become more closely affiliated than Miu Miu and micro bottoms. Thickness can also come into play. Which is why some of our favorites are labeled as overshirts or shirt jackets. We kept this fact in mind when planning our outfits. Some of the ensembles you can rock right now, others will wear better in fall.
Ready to find your flannel soulmate? Keep reading to shop the best options and learn how to style a flannel shirt the fashion ways.
Bottega Veneta Flannel-Printed Long Sleeved Shirt, $3,135.79 at Cettire
Make sure to roll up the cuffs just like Moss did on the runway. Keep the shirt buttoned, but swap out the baggy jeans for a denim midi skirt. Then add black ankle boots to cap things off.
Victoria Beckham Checked Cotton Flannel Shirt, $470 at Mytheresa
Tuck this pick into cargo trousers and finish the look with neutral kicks.
Mango Checked Flannel Pajama Shirt, $19.99 at Mango
It's a rare occasion when a flannel pajama top can actually be worn out in public. This is one of those times. Layer it over a white tank top and layered necklaces. Work in black capri pants and strappy sandals to wrap up the outfit.
Balenciaga Convertible Oversized Padded Checked Cotton-Flannel Shirt, $2,420 at Net-a-Porter
Since Balenciaga's contribution is padded and oversize, you'll want to keep your bottom half streamlined. Pair it with straight-leg jeans and black loafers.
Buck Mason Brushed Flannel Overshirt, $188 at Buck Mason
Once the weather cools down, style this brushed flannel shirt with a brown leather jacket and a matching skirt. Earn bonus points by incorporating neutral-colored cowboy boots.
Y/Project Whisker Checked Flannel Shirt, $527 at Mytheresa
The distressed sections call for a faded pair of jeans with rolled hems. That way your ankle boots will have greater impact.
R13 Drop Neck Workshirt in Green Gradient Plaid, $650 at R13
Team this gradient creation with a long T-shirt or slip dress. (You can always sport shorts underneath if you're concerned about revealing too much.) Style with a choker and a chain-link necklace along with sheer black knee-highs and platform sandals. Carry an edgy bag to reinforce the chic yet grunge vibe.
Denimist Oversized Checked Cotton-Flannel Shirt, $265 at Net-a-Porter
Suit-worthy Bermuda shorts are the perfect pairing for Denimist's checked shirt. Match the shorts to one of the shades in the shirt and at least half tuck the shirt hem. Round out the ensemble with pumps in one of the other shades.
Celine Overshirt in Checked Wool, $2,950 at Celine
Flaunt Celine's overshirt over a red shirt and then work in dark jeans and platform loafers. Layer a couple of necklaces over the overshirt for extra polish.
Palm Angels Checked Cotton Flannel Shirt, $497 at Mytheresa
Showcase this bright yellow must-have over black stirrup leggings. Then stretch the stirrups underneath a pair of slingback heels.
Rick Owens Checked Cotton-Flannel Shirt, $628 at The Outnet
Slip a black sweater vest over this checked shirt. Add in black barrel-leg jeans and dark sneakers for a Preppy 2.0 look.
Nili Lotan Lydia Ruffled Checked Cotton-Flannel Shirt, $495 at Net-a-Porter
The ruffled collar on this topper demands attention. So draw eyes upward by wearing a black turtleneck underneath. A black maxi skirt and green boots will keep you warm as fall goes along.
ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Plaid Flannel Shirt Jacket, $486.50 at Nordstrom
Rock this plaid jacket over a white or ivory band tee. Team with a pair of khakis and neutral high-tops (think Chuck Taylors).
