Outfit Ideas: 4 Ways to Wear Your Favorite Flannel Shirt
As a CF reader, I know you’re all privy to the wonderful benefits that layering can bring to your cool-weather wardrobe. Well, one of my favorite layering tools located in almost every girl’s closet is a cozy, worn-in flannel shirt.
In this post, we’re taking everyone’s favorite staple item and remixing to create a few new outfits with pieces you probably already own. Read on to check out some style tips!
Rustic Layering
The mere thought of a flannel button-down shirt makes me think of sipping hot chocolate by the fireplace in an earthy log cabin. And yes, I watch way too many movies.
Play up this wintery vibe by layering your flannel shirt with thick cable knit sweaters, utility jackets, denim, leather, or pretty much anything you find in your closet. A mix of different textures and fabrics will give you the most chic, street style-y kind of look. Below, I paired a red flannel shirt with a cream colored boyfriend cardigan, worn with skinny cargoes and topped off with a fur-lined denim jacket. Finish the look with a pair of boots and a few no-frills accessories, like this leather bracelet.
Shirt, Boots, Pants, Sweater, Jacket, Bracelet
Night On The Town
Most girls would never think of a flannel shirt as being appropriate for girls night out — but your most comfortable shirt can absolutely work: All it takes is a little bit of dressing up!
A flannel shirt can look amazing with the sleeves rolled up to 3/4 length, unbuttoned a bit (maybe even to reveal a lacy cami), and tucked into a skirt. Be creative with the skirt — anything from a fitted bandage skirt to a leather A-line skirt, or even a hi-lo skirt like the one pictured below can work! The two pieces juxtaposed together will look bold and funky, and will be even more awesome with statement earrings, heels, and a glamorous clutch. Just don’t act too surprised when the Sartorialist appears out of nowhere to snap your picture!
Shirt, Skirt, Earrings, Clutch, Shoes
’90s Throwback
If you look at my past CF posts, it’s no secret that I’m absolutely crazy for the ’90s fashion renaissance we’ve been experiencing. This, of course, is the era that flannel shirts are most closely associated with. There’s a way to get a cool, grungy ’90s look without looking sloppy or overly dated, though!
To start, try layering a flannel over your favorite graphic tee. If a concert tee is a little too Kurt Cobain-esque for your liking, go with any other graphic tee in your closet! Balance out the look with a pair of skinny-cut colored cords. Finish with a pair of sneakers and — if you’re feeling really daring — a bowler hat.
Flannel Shirt, Tee, Pants, Shoes, Hat
Outdoors and Cozy
Of course, probably the second strongest association people have with flannel shirts is a burly man chopping wood in the countryside. Well I know this sounds insane, but we can make “lumberjack chic” a cute look — I’ll prove it!
Quilted vests are amazing for staying warm in harsh winds, and can be worn either inside or outside of most winter coats. Wear one on top of a flannel shirt for an outdoorsy and functional (but still super adorable) look. Finish with a pair of comabt boots, a beanie, and chic fingerless gloves. You’ll look perfect for playing in the leaves, going to a bonfire, picking apples, or pretty much any fun (and slightly cliche) fall activity!
Shirt, Jeans, Vest, Beanie, Boots, Gloves
How do you wear your favorite flannel shirt?
I shared a few of my ideas, but now it’s your turn. What do you like to pair your flannel shirt with? How do you feel about these outfits? What other winter staple can you not live without? Would you ever wear a flannel shirt with a skirt? What about open over a graphic tee, like the grunge ’90s trend?
Leave us a comment and continue the conversation!
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Posted on on November 8, 2012 / Filed Under: Fashion Tips / Tags: 1990s, Fall, Flannel, Outfits, Shirts, Winter
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Kristine
Love this post! I’ve tried different variations of the last outfit and have a shirt that’s super similar to that green plaid! Flannels are definitely my go-to!
Denny
Absolutely loving the first look!
sam t
not a fan of flannel with the hi-low skirt, the outfit would look better with a bustier but everything else is wonderful!
Ellie
I love my flannel shirts and these ideas are great. The way I wear mine most is with dark skinny jeans and long gold jewelry, but I’m so happy to have some new ways!
Elyse
These are great :) I like the nighttime look, it’s so unexpectedly cool. I love wearing my fitted flannel buttoned all the way up with a big statement necklace, that’s one of my favorite looks that is really simple. I also have a large oversized flannel that is fun to wear with girly dresses!
JJ
Love these! I wear mine over a white tee and under a cardi with the sleeves cuffed over, with rolled boyfriend jeans and either chucks or my trusty moccs!
Aless
Hi! I was wondering if you’ll ever do an outfit idea on high-low pleated skirts. I own one, and I’m having a hard time dressing up for school, without looking too fancy.
Although, I do love these ideas!!!!
Aless
Oh and it’s black, by the way, the high-low skirt.
Shmee
A timely post! Today I’m wearing a flannel plaid shirt with a midi 50′s-style full skirt with a high waist, red belt and red pumps. It really is versatile item.
Eva
Falling for look #1! Thanks for the inspiration!
Nony
Props x1000 for using a Motley Crue shirt.