The recent cold front did an excellent job pushing that warm air out of the Southeast, FINALLY allowing us to break out the sweaters, the waxed coats, and the flannels. While I don’t keep as many flannels as I do OCBDs, I have a few, and really like the look. I do mine with jeans/5-pockets/khakis and shoes depending on how I care for the shirt: if it’s a wash > hang dry > light iron, then I’ll wear loafers. If it’s a wash > no iron, then I’ll wear boots.
To me, a good flannel is all about cut and weight. I like them to be a little slim, and not too heavy. I’m a layer guy, and these provide some extra warmth during the cold months. These are the flannels that I’m into:
From Top Left:
1. The Perfect Flannel Shirt from Orvis: Orvis rarely misses, and these flannels are a prime example. High on value proposition.
2. Beretta Flannel Button Down Shirt: Please tell me you know that Beretta does apparel and accessories? And they are great…very true to their brand, with a hint of Italian flare.
3. Ledbury Stephenson Flannel Shirt: Some of the best OTR fitting shirts on the market. Not too thick so they’ll work under a blazer. Ledbury does it right all year ’round.
4. Southern Proper Chase Flannel Shirt: Some of my favorite gear from the ladies of Southern Proper are their flannels. They are a bit thicker, and are not built to see an iron. Wear these like you would a work shirt.
5. LL Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Shirt: Probably the best value proposition in terms of flannel shirts.
6. Viyella Sport Shirt: A go-to flannel. Viyellas are an 80%-20% wool-cotton blend, so they provide a little more warmth and are a bit ‘tougher’. If you’ve ever worn one, you know what I mean.
7. Sid Mashburn Burnt Orange Flannel: A dress shirt cut with flannel fabric, and in some of the coolest patterns around.
8. Gitman Vintage Flannel Shirt: A great cut. The Gitman Vintage shirts are a bit pricey, but they are made in the USA and have a nice, slim fit.
9. Duluth Trading Free Swinging Flannel Shirt: Because they have the best commercials on TV. This is a work shirt, so beat it up.
10. Onward Reserve Jasper Flannel Shirt: Since Onward has started producing clothing and accessories via their own brand, they’ve been knocking it out of the park. Their flannels are no exception…the patterns are unique, and the fit is spot on.
What did I miss? What flannels are you digging this year?
The Mashburn and OR are money. You’re like me, a hater of anything but pearl buttons. Flannel is a great choice for those days when the chill stays in the air. If it turns up sunny and warm, or worse yet, warm and humid like today, flannel can be torture. I think you might miss out on some good classic patterns by ignoring LL Bean’s flannel offerings. They offer an updated trim fit too, I believe.
Author
Yes, I am a pearl button or bust guy. I have a habit of buying really nice dress shirts (regardless of size) at Goodwill simply for the buttons… Yes, LL Bean does make great flannels, but their sleeves are too short, even in the trim fit. I recommend buying the ‘tall’ version…
Great list. I’d add Howler Bros (small shop, so size availability can be hit and miss, though) and Patagonia to the list.
I second the motion for Howler Bros…
Flannels have always been more a work or outdoors item than something I’d wear with a blazer. I regularly find many flannel shirts to be too short me, an issue I rarely have with dress shirts. I’d be interested to if others run into this issue and how these shirts stack up if there is not a tall option
A fine list of shirts/brands and one or two I am not familiar with. For me, Pendleton Lodge and Trail (wool) shirts can’t be beat, and their cotton flannels are great too.
The burlyweight flannel from Duluth is one of the best shirts I’ve ever owned.
Cary – I was going to suggest Duluth as well. RCS – I highly recommend the “trim” fit from Duluth, if you prefer a “tailored” fit.
Good call. Everything I have from Duluth is Trim fit.
Author
Check out #9 above…I’m on board