Flannel shirts and the cozy season go hand-in-hand in the same way that autumn is synonymous with changing leaves, PSLs and Gilmore Girls reruns. But here’s the thing: We want all those warm, fall vibes without looking like a lumberjack. The best women's flannel shirts will be warm, comfortable and stylish enough to make a regular appearance in your wardrobe rotation—and we've combed practically every corner of the internet to find styles that will fit the bill.
11 of the Best Flannel Shirts to Rock All Autumn Long
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Published Sep 27, 2022
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What Is Flannel?
While you may immediately think of "plaid"—a pattern type—when you hear the word flannel, the latter is actually type of woven material that's characterized by a raised "napped" texture that comes about as a result of brushing. While flannel used to be made with wool, most classic styles today are made with brushed cotton, which is soft and warm but still holds a bit of structure. If you prefer a less heavy fabric, you might like a cotton/polyester blend. Regardless of your material preferences, your best bet will be a flannel shirt with a slightly relaxed fit that can be styled in a variety of ways.
Where to Buy Women's Flannel Shirts
Given its popularity these days, flannel can be found just about anywhere—Target, Amazon, you name it! If you're looking for a more high-fashion version, you can try a company like Verishop, which offers more unique finds, while Brunette the Label will yield a fashionable-yet-eco-friendly pick we're head over heels for. Check out our favorite flannel shirts for the chilly season below.
The Best Women's Flannel Shirts at a Glance
- Most Classic Flannel Shirt: Goodthreads Flannel Boyfriend Tunic
- Best Cropped Flannel Shirt: BDG Joey Cropped Flannel Shirt
- Most Eco-Friendly Flannel Shirt: Brunette the Label Flannel Shirt Jacket
- Best Adaptive Flannel Shirt: Universal Thread Flannel Shirt
- Best Flannel Shirt with Pockets: Madewell Flannel Shirt
- Most Stylish Flannel Shirt: Blooming Jelly Flannel Shirt
- Best Lightweight Flannel Shirt: Amazon Essentials Flannel Shirt
- Best Boyfriend Flannel Shirt: SweatyRocks Boyfriend Flannel Shirt
- Best Heavy Flannel Shirt: Dokotoo Flannel Shirt
- Best Cotton Flannel Shirt: Gap Flannel Big Shirt
- Most Versatile Flannel Shirt: Zaful Flannel Shirt
At this price point, you don't have to be choosy with the 15 color options available in this Goodthreads flannel tunic (though we must admit, the pictured burgundy is a favorite). Another little detail we’re loving about this find are the dainty little metal buttons that feel far more “casual brunch” than “chopping wood."
You know what a lumberjack would never wear? A cropped flannel. We love this option from BDG because it has a classic boxy fit but a cropped cut that makes it more modern. Several color options even feature a cute, contrasting trim to make it extra chic. Plus, the fabric is a true 100 percent cotton to keep you warm all winter long.
OK, OK, so technically, this is a shacket, but this brushed plaid shirt jacket is about as chic as a flannel can get. It features a super relaxed fit with enough room to roll up the sleeves and wear it over an undershirt. The most exciting aspect, however, just might be the fact that it's made with recycled materials from leftover factory scraps that would have otherwise been discarded, yet still feels as soft and cozy as can be—no scratchy materials here!
If you need a little extra warmth in your neck of the woods, check out this option from Universal Thread. It's made of recycled cotton and features two great little chest pockets. It's also designed to be adaptive, so those with disabilities will have an easier time getting in and out of it. According to Target shoppers, the buttons are larger than normal for this purpose, and it hits mid-length, making it easier to tuck in.
This shirt is the quintessential flannel, complete with an oversized fit and functional chest pockets. Made of 100 percent cotton, it will be plenty breathable so as to play well for warmer fall days, and the slit on the side allows for even more airflow.
This top will not only keep you warm this season, the hem is long enough to be tied into a knot when you want to change things up. It comes in many different plaid prints, and you can wear it open over a tank, tied up or completely buttoned on those frigid, snowy days to come for versatile-yet-equally stylish looks.
This shirt is perfect for anyone living in not-so-cold temps (or those of you who just run hot). It's made of 100 percent brushed lightweight cotton and comes in more than two dozen colors. The classic fit, meanwhile, is flattering without being too form-fitting.
Calling all cool girls! This boyfriend-style flannel will make you look perfectly undone. It's extra-long to throw on over leggings or a pair of skinny jeans and it comes in more than 30 colors, so you're bound to find one that suits your taste. It's also made of a lighter, breathable fabric, which makes it wearable from season to season.
This extra-thick flannel shirt, which comes in more than 40 colors, is made of 100 percent polyester that will be both durable and water-resistant. It has a shacket design and won't shrink or pill in the wash, but it can be a little itchy, so it's a good idea to wear it with an undershirt.
What’s not to love about a Gap flannel? This 100 percent cotton option comes in a plaid for every buyer, including the pictured red-and-green combo. The curved hemline is a cool detail, and buyers say it's nice and thick for even the chilliest of fall nights. Better yet, it's made in a factory that helps the women manufacturing it gain advancement and education.
Most Versatile Flannel Shirt
11. Zaful Plaid Flannel Shirt
Zaful
This Zaful style consists of a cotton and polyester blend fabric that offers extra warmth. It’s also super versatile, so you can style it in various ways. Order it one size up to wear it as a shacket or wear it as a shirt in your regular size. The single-breast pocket means that you can keep your essentials close, and the loose silhouette means you won't be uncomfortable.
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Paige Doepke Liwanag lives in Chicago and has been working as a freelance writer since 2016. She's a bit of a jack of all trades when it comes to subject expertise. She's written about everything from how to create the perfect resume to choosing the right cleaning method for your tile grout (yep, you read that correctly). When she's not writing, you can find her snuggled up to her pitbull, Clementine and her baby boy, Nathan.