When you think about how to wear a flannel shirt, you’re probably not flooded with inventive outfit ideas. Flannels are more or less the Old Faithful of casual tops—the one that typically leaves your closet in September, and only if you’re pairing it with sneakers and jeans.
But! With some clever styling tricks, the humble flannel can be worn in dozens of different ways across any season. Some proof: instead of a hoodie, throw on a flannel when heading to the gym; wear an open flannel with a white tee and jeans shorts for an effortless summer outfit, or button up a flannel under a sleeveless dress. The ideas are kind of endless. With celebrities like Gigi Hadid and Sarah Jessica Parker finding unique ways to style their plaid—and plenty of street style inspo—keep reading to see that flannels don’t have to be confined to one season—or one type of outfit. Here’s how to wear a flannel shirt any time of year.
How to wear a flannel as a dress
Grab a flannel that’s triple your normal size (the men’s department at your local thrift store is always a good place to start) and button it up like a shirtdress. In chilly weather, throw on an oversized bomber, varsity, or leather jacket and a pair of statement boots. In warmer weather, roll up the sleeves and add a pair of “It” sneakers and socks.
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Courtesy of brand
Courtesy of brand
How to wear a flannel for an evening out
Take a cut from Sarah Jessica Parker and pair a classic flannel with a sweeping maxi skirt and plaform sandals.
Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin
How to layer a flannel
Who knew popping a flannel shirt underneath a sleeveless dress could look this cool? Here, this model is working with a Carhart utility dress in the style of overalls, but the look could also work under a slip dress, a shift dress, or even a strapless dress.
