While many style-focused individuals will rock a good flannel shirt even during the hottest summer months, the reality is that this ideal layering piece is truly meant for winter. Most commonly made with pure cotton, flannel shirts have an outstanding ability to get better with age. While we know fabric can get softer and cozier with time, sometimes it can look worn out. But flannels – typically with many various colors and built to be resilient – handle the years far better than other garments.
We have found some of the best flannel shirts on the market right now. Whether you’re looking for the statement-worthy or understated, we have one for you. Flannels that stand out tend to have numerous hues in them. If you’re down, we recommend the Lightweight Fjord Flannel by Patagonia or the Rancher Shirt by Rogue Territory. Both have most of the primary colors if not all, and make for a bold look. Meanwhile, if you would prefer one you can discretely wear to the office, without someone asking where you tent is, Huf and Brixton offer iterations that are truly just classic button downs, but made with more hearty fabrics.
Also: Best Foot Forward | Winter Blue Sneakers: The Color of the Season
No matter what flannel(s) you choose to integrate into your wardrobe, we know they will be a much loved, and worn, addition. And if you’re aiming for an all time classic, you can never go wrong with buffalo plaid (red and black check) — the Vermont Flannel Company has the perfect one to fit the bill.
All About M.E. | Flannel
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Rogue Territory, Rancher Shirt
The Rancher Shirt, $195, from Rogue Territory is handmade in downtown LA, and features large chest pockets and a club collar(a first for RGT).
Photo: Rogue Territory
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Volcom, Enders L/S Flannel
You can't see it, but the Enders L/S Flannel, $75, has a waffle thermal liner for extra warmth on those winter days.
Photo: Volcom
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Levi's, Jackson Flannel Worker Shirt
Coming in seven different color scheme's the Jackson Flannel Worker Shirt, $43, is a work shirt that's built to last. Made of 100% cotton and features reinforced hem gussets for added durability.
Photo: Levi's
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L.L. Bean, Flannel-Lined Hurricane Shirt
The Flannel-Lined Hurricane Shirt, $69, by L.L. Bean is prewashed for a well-worn softness even when brand new.
Photo: L.L. Bean
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Brixton, Archie L/S Flannel
The Archie L/S Flannel, $64, by Brixton, is a relaxed fit long sleeved flannel. Looks good on, looks good tied around your waist.
Photo: Brixton
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Obey, Dobbs Shirt
The Dobbs Shirt, $72, by Obey, is available in two different colorways - red multi (shown) and brown multi. Both are beyond versatile.
Photo: Obey
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Vans, Eckleson Flannel Shirt
The Eckleson Flannel Shirt, $49.50, by Vans, is made of 100% cotton, and pairs as well with black pants as it does jean shorts.
Photo: Vans
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Huf, Tardy Flannel Shirt
The Tardy Flannel Shirt, $60, by Huf, is a 100% cotton button down that will look as at home at the skate park as it does in the cubical.
Photo: Huf
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686, Parklan Sherpa Divide Jacket
The Parklan Sherpa Divide Jacket, $85, by 686, features an unexpected sherpa collar for added warmth.
Photo: 686
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Hurley, Dri-Fit Rowen Woven
The Dri-Fit Wovens by Hurley, about $55-70, are the perfect collision where style meets technology. It looks appropriate for the office (and is), plus has sweat-wicking coverage for when you heat up.
Photo: Hurley
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Patagonia, L/S Lightweight Fjord Flannel Shirt
The L/S Lightweight Fjord Flannel Shirt, $79, by Patagonia, is made of 100% organic cotton in a resilient twill weave. Wear this shirt everywhere; wear it in.
Photo: Patagonia
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Vermont Flannel Company, Classic Button Front Shirt
The Classic Button Front Shirt, $52.80, is a vision of buffalo plaid done right by The Vermont Flannel Company.
Photo: The Vermont Flannel Company