First, let’s be clear about something. Flannel is a fabric, not a pattern—like, say, plaid. (Plaid just happens to be one of the more popular patterns used in flannel apparel.) Semantics aside, there’s a reason everyone’s wearing flannel shirts again: they look good and are more functional (and comfortable) than your average button-up.
Columbia Flare Gun Stretch ($65)
Take Columbia’s Flare Gun Stretch, a cotton-blend classic: loose fitting, super soft, and cut long for maximum comfort. We found ourselves wanting to wear it a few days in a row. So we did.
Filson’s Women’s Western ($135)
The brushed-cotton twill of Filson’s Women’s Western is butter soft against your skin, and it has just enough structure—particularly in the cuffs and collar—to offer a tailored look without sacrificing comfort. Style points for the pearl snaps.
Stio Dovetail Cabin ($109)
Stio’s Dovetail Cabin is equal parts snug—made of brushed cotton—and lightweight. It features a longer, more feminine cut and a roomy fit without looking frumpy.
Mountain Hardwear Moiry ($95)
The handsome navy and yellow buffalo check sets the Mountain Hardwear Moiry apart. Its tight cotton weave provides durability and unrestricting structure, and the cropped cut is stylish.
Fjällräven Canada LS W ($150)
Made of 70 percent antimicrobial, temperature-regulating wool, the Fjällräven Canada LS W is a little on the heavy side, but it’s supremely functional. The other 30 percent is polyester, lending the shirt a bit of stretch, making it possibly the perfect shirt for actual lumberjacks.
Hugh and Crye Swanson ($85)
Despite being a menswear brand, Hugh and Crye received praise from both men and women for its all-cotton Swanson. The flannel is soft and the fit options plenty, so you can get one worthy of dressing up.