Listen up, lumberjacks.
Happy almost fall and happy flannel season to all the gentlemen who love the cooler temperatures and are ready to pull out their Chris Evans cable-knit sweaters and cozy flannel shirts and jackets to go with.
A flannel is really a wardrobe staple for so many reasons, as you can layer them over classic shirts and sweaters for an effortless fall look for apple picking or tailgating, or you can wear them buttoned up for more warmth and cozy vibes for sitting by the bonfire while fall turns to winter.
Best yet, when things heat up this cuffing season, lend them to your fall fling, like Scott Disick and Kourtney Kardashian or current coupling Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck.
If you choose to keep your flannels for yourself, we don’t blame you either, as the picks below from brands like L.L.Bean, Carhartt and more are worth getting into it over — or just buy her another one, as we have an array of price points and sizes to shop.
Who makes the best flannel shirts?
Most of us turn to flannel when temperatures start dipping. Known for its warmth, it’s a staple in most men’s closet. One of the best makers of flannel shirts is Pendleton. The brand runs two of the last remaining woolen mills in the United States and uses sustainable practices when harvesting the fiber.
One of our favorite flannel shirts for men is the Pendleton Driftwood Shirt ($100). It’s made of sturdy cotton chamois but is breathable for long days outside.
Another brand to know when shopping flannels for fall or winter is Fjallraven. The Swedish brand specializes in outdoor gear, so you know they know their stuff when it comes to flannel. Our favorite men’s flannel shirt from Fjallraven is the Skog Shirt ($77). It has a thick cotton fabrication, a shirttail hemline and comes in five different colors. It’s soft and keeps you warm without making you sweaty — a must try.
L.L.Bean is another brand worth mentioning when it comes to men’s flannel shirts. L.L. Bean’s Men’s Scotch Plaid Flannel, for example, starts at $30, is woven with longer-staple cotton for strength, and brushed by one of their master weavers to give it a soft feel. The tartans are yarn-dyed, too, so the shirt’s color remains vibrant.
Other brands to shop for men’s flannel shirts:
What is high quality flannel?
High quality flannel tends to have some weight to it, indicating strength of material. Of course, it’s hard to know how heavy something is when shopping online, so follow these two tips:
- Look for 100% cotton. If you find a shirt that’s made of a blend, make sure it’s a blend of wool and polyester or something similar.
- Stitching details, especially around the neck and cuffs are generally a good indicator of quality. Avoid anything that looks too flimsy, especially if you’re buying a flannel shirt for function, not just style. One men’s flannel shirt we love is the Eddie Bauer Men’s Chopper Sledge Flannel Work Shirt ($100). The yoke and back of the sleeves have a Condura Canvas overlay to keep the shirt’s integrity while you move. Certain sections also have a StormRepel DWR finish to guard against moisture.
What is the difference between 100% cotton and 100% cotton flannel?
Cotton is a fiber that comes from — you guessed it — a cotton plant. It’s soft, lightweight and breathable. In contrast, flannel is made from wool, brushed cotton or synthetic material. It’s is woven and then brushed for softness.
Flannel made from 100% cotton is, as you could imagine, made from purely cotton. It’s woven in a specific way to give it weight and durability. This doesn’t mean it’s necessarily stronger than other types of flannel, like those made with polyester. However, for those who want something natural or hypoallergenic, 100% cotton flannel is the way to go.
Best Men’s Flannel Shirts
Stick with the classics and grab this L.L.Bean flannel in every color this fall. The Scotch Plaid Flannel Shirt is easy to wear on its own, open over a tee or tied around your waist in the warmer weather. Plus, it comes in both regular and tall sizing to fit most men.
For the outdoorsman or just the guy that likes to stay warm in the winter, here are some heavyweight options. The long-sleeve flannels from Carhartt are made with 100% cotton ringspun flannel, complete with shoulder pleats for a full range of motion when working outdoors.
We can’t get over how soft this flannel is. Brushed to perfection, the 100% cotton shirt is woven with twisted yarn to create a wool-like feel — minus the scratchiness. It also has a secure pockets, perfect for stashing a credit card or key, and it comes in two different colors.
Made from 100% cotton, this men’s flannel shirt comes in several different colors, has roll up sleeves and flap pockets at the chest. It’s lightweight but thick, making it ideal for breezy days when you don’t necessarily need a sweater but simply something to keep the chill off.
Working hard or hardly working, this is the perfect flannel for you. The Flannel Workshirt from J. Crew comes in a variety of colors for every outfit, each made of sturdy yet soft cotton flannel. The long-sleeve comes in an array of sized too, including options for classic, slim and tall builds.
This flannel is extra cozy, with a side of fashionable too. The Schoot NYC flannel is as classic as they come, is available in three different colors and extra warm. It’s made of 100% cotton, so it should hold up well in the wash.
This slim-fit flannel is a great way to welcome in fall, as it’s the color of the changing leaves. The two-tone brown mixed with red is a perfect autumnal wardrobe staple, with the classic flannel shape, button up style and two breast pockets.
Wrangle up a great deal at Wrangler with these flannel shirts. The Wrangler brand is a great men’s option, as the fabric is durable enough for a full day of working outdoors while remaining lightweight to keep you cool. The shirts also come in three colors, ranging in size from a small to a 3XT while supplies last.
No restrictions here. This flannel from Bonobos has added stretch in the super-warm fabric, letting you have full range of motion even while all bundled and buttoned up. The shirt comes in seven color ways perfect for fall and winter, ranging in size from an extra small to an XXL.
There’s nothing easier than throwing on a flannel on a chilly day. This one from Aeropostale is no different, as you know with this shirt you are getting high-quality cotton. Featuring a vintage wash and buttoned chest pockets, this best men’s flannel shirt works great for work, a night out with the guys or date night.
For a gentleman in the fall, a well-tailored flannel is the peak of fashion. The Summit Flannel Shirt is just that, sold at Bespoke Post for $65. The shirt has a button front placket, is made with 100% brushed cotton flannel and has a tailored fit for easy layering in the colder season ahead.
Whether you’re an outdoors guy or simply like to dress like one, you’ll need to add this flannel shirt to your cart. It’s relaxed through the chest and has a slightly shorter hem so it can be worn untucked. The most lightweight flannel shirt from L.L.Bean, it’s also one of the softest. Available in ten different colors, sizes between S and XXXL.
Relax and slip on this flannel before fall hits. The plaid shirt from Aeropostale is a great look for back-to-school or a night out by the bonfire, coming in a winter moss green and a navy blue shade.
14. Pendleton Driftwood Shirt, $100
If you want a flannel shirt that will last from year to year, try this one by Pendelton. The Driftwood Shirt has a classic button-up style, is made with cotton chamois and has lots of pockets. Its vintage pattern may not be for everyone. However, we like it. It’s always nice to have an alternative to plaid, right?
Snap to it if you want this casual and stylish shirt. Sold at Haband, the yard-dyed flannel is great on its own or thrown over a tee or tank for a more “casual Joe” look, given the name. The shirt comes in more than ten colors and patterns, while supplies last.
Abercrombie has you covered for fall and winter with this relaxed flannel. The shirts come in four different colors, each made of softAF fabric and featuring a chest pocket.
Chop chop. Head to Eddie Bauer to get a flannel now before the winter hits. The shirt comes in both regular and tall and a variety of colors. They are each made with Cordura Canvas overlays at the sleeve and yolk for durability, and have a StormRepel DWR finish to repel moisture from rain and snow.
Happy fall, everyone. Celebrate the season with this pumpkin-colored flannel, perfect for Halloween and every day after. The shirt is sold at Duluth Trading Co. and comes in big and tall sizing, from a large to a 3XL.
For a great flannel with an even better price, head to Shein’s men’s section. This shirt is great to layer over a basic white tee, as in the photo, or a long-sleeve for even more comfy cozy warmth.
Did you know lululemon had cozy flannels in stock? This one is new, and we just know it will sell fast. The Soft Knit Overshirt comes in six colors and ranges in size from an XS to an XXL, while supplies last.
Spend your Saturdays with us. This flannel shirt from Saturdays New York City is a great staple item for your weekend wardrobe, coming in green or orange, each with an embroidered logo above the breast pocket.
The oversized look is super trendy for fall and winter, as not only is it stylish but practical too, allowing you to layer it over bulky hoodies and coats. This one comes in a washed blue color, ranging in size from a 2XS to a 4XL.
Head to Amazon for your pick of many flannel colors. A bestselling brand is Legendary Whitetails, offering a reinforced flannel perfect for the outdoors, camping, hunting and more.
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