let’s be honest: fall hits, and suddenly we’re all grabbing pumpkin spice everything, cozying up in boots, and digging out those oh-so-soft flannel shirts from the back of the closet. But here’s the thing — flannel shirts can be tricky. You either look effortlessly cool or like you’re heading to chop firewood in the wrong decade. Been there 🙋♀️.
I used to treat my flannel like a backup plan. You know, toss it on when nothing else works. But I finally figured out that with just a little style know-how, flannel can go from “meh” to main character energy real quick.
So whether you’ve got one classic flannel or five in rotation (no judgment), here are 11 ways to style a flannel shirt this fall — starting with the first 6.
1. The Classic: Flannel + Jeans Combo
Let’s kick things off with the OG move. It’s simple. It’s iconic. It always works.
Why it slaps:
- Effortless layering — works with pretty much any tee underneath.
- You can dress it up or down with just your shoes or accessories.
- Timeless appeal — flannel and denim are like PB&J, but for your wardrobe.
Style tip: Try cuffing the sleeves and adding a leather or denim jacket over it. Bonus points if you throw on a beanie. It’s giving cozy lumberjack, but make it fashion.
Pro tip: Dark wash jeans = cleaner, dressier look. Distressed jeans = more relaxed, street-style vibes.
2. Open Flannel Over a Graphic Tee
Ah yes, the layered look we all secretly love. Wearing a flannel shirt open over a graphic tee is the unofficial uniform of “I didn’t try, but I still look cool.”
Try this with:
- Band tees (because we all have that one Nirvana shirt, right?)
- Minimalist graphics for a cleaner look
- Neutral flannel tones so your tee can pop
Shoes to pair with this? Sneakers. Always. Unless you’re going for that skater-boy-meets-fall-aesthetic — then, hello Vans or Converse.
3. Belt It and Make It a Shirt Dress
OK, this one’s mostly for the long flannel crew (you know who you are 👀). If you’ve got an oversized or men’s flannel shirt lying around, don’t just wear it — turn it into a whole fit.
How to do it:
- Throw on a chunky belt at the waist.
- Add tights or thigh-high socks if you’re feeling flirty.
- Layer with a long coat or cropped leather jacket.
You go from “Is she wearing pants?” to “OMG where’d you get that outfit?” real fast.
| Item | Style Boost |
|---|---|
| Belted flannel | Feminine + edgy |
| Thigh-highs | Cozy + confident |
FYI: If the flannel’s just a bit too short for your comfort? Turn it into a tunic and pair it with black leggings.
4. Tied Around the Waist (Yup, It’s Back)
Listen, the '90s called — and we’re keeping this trend. Tying your flannel around your waist isn’t just for nostalgia. It’s actually useful and gives your outfit an extra layer of texture and color.
When to rock it:
- With a basic tee and skinny jeans
- Over bike shorts and a cropped hoodie
- To hide a food baby after brunch (don’t lie, we’ve all done it 😅)
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And IMO, this one’s a lifesaver during those weird chilly-mornings-warm-afternoons fall days. You know the ones.
5. Layered Under a Sweater (Peek-a-Flannel)
Ever seen those Pinterest-perfect fall looks where a flannel collar pops out from under a sweater, and you’re like, “Why does this look so put together?” Yeah. That.
This is your “preppy meets cozy” go-to.
Here’s how:
- Use a thinner flannel (no one likes bulk).
- Let the collar and bottom hem peek out for visual interest.
- Pair with straight-leg jeans and ankle boots for That Fall Look™.
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Color tip: A white or cream sweater over a red or mustard flannel? Chef’s kiss.
6. Buttoned-Up and Tucked Into Trousers
Alright, hear me out — flannel can be business casual. Shocking, I know.
Tuck your flannel into some high-waisted trousers or even paperbag pants, and boom: you’ve got a polished yet comfy outfit that says, “Yes, I’m productive and stylish.”
Best combos:
- Plaid flannel + black slacks = effortlessly chic
- Neutral flannel + wide-leg trousers = downtown cool
- Add loafers or mules to finish the look
- Small detail, big impact: Leave one or two top buttons undone and layer a delicate necklace underneath. It gives just the right amount of “I woke up like this.”
7. Flannel + Leather: The Rebel Combo
If flannel’s cozy cousin is denim, then leather is its cool, edgy BFF. Pair your favorite flannel with a leather jacket, leather pants, or even a mini skirt, and boom — instant rebel vibes.
Here’s why this combo rocks:
- The soft flannel vs. sleek leather contrast just works.
- It gives a “badass but approachable” aesthetic.
- It's perfect for concerts, night outs, or even just stomping through crunchy leaves in style 😌
Try this: Red flannel + black leather moto jacket + ripped skinny jeans. Add combat boots and you’ve basically got your fall alter ego sorted.
8. Cropped Flannel with High-Waisted Bottoms
Cropped flannel is flirty, fun, and still has that laid-back vibe. You can DIY crop one yourself (snip snip ✂️), or grab a ready-made one from the store if you’re not about that life.
Style it with:
- High-waisted mom jeans
- Wide-leg trousers
- Or even fitted joggers for a casual streetwear feel
Bonus points: Add chunky sneakers and a baseball cap. You’ll look like you accidentally landed in someone’s Pinterest board — in the best way.
BTW: If you're not into showing skin, just layer a longer tank or bodysuit underneath. Still stylish, zero stomach chills.
9. Over a Hoodie (Yes, It Works)
Ever thrown on a hoodie, then realized it looks… a little too chill? Yeah. Layer your flannel over it and boom — instant upgrade.
This look is basically the love child of “lazy Sunday” and “urban cool.”
What makes this combo click:
- It adds warmth without looking bulky
- Looks great with joggers, jeans, or cargo pants
- It’s giving “I’m running errands but also lowkey a style icon”
Tip: Make sure the hoodie fits snug-ish. You don’t want your flannel stretching at the seams like it’s trying to escape.
10. Monochrome Flannel Look
Want to look instantly more fashionable with zero extra effort? Go monochrome. Pick a flannel in shades of a single color — think different tones of grey, tan, or olive — and build your whole outfit around that palette.
Example:
- Grey flannel
- Dark grey jeans
- Light grey tee or sweater underneath
Top it off with neutral sneakers or boots, and you’ve just unlocked “put-together but chill” energy. Like… did you hire a stylist? No. But also, maybe yes. 😉
| Monochrome Wins If… | You Want This Look |
|---|---|
| Everything blends | Streamlined & intentional |
| One color dominates | Sophisticated layering |
11. Styled with a Maxi Skirt
Wait, hear me out. A flannel shirt + flowy maxi skirt is a match made in style heaven. It's giving fall picnic in the park, farmer's market day, or “I make my own chai from scratch” vibes.
Here’s how to rock it:
- Tuck in your flannel or tie it at the waist.
- Pair with a chunky belt to define your shape.
- Add boots or retro sneakers for a modern twist.
This combo works best when your flannel is lightweight and the skirt has a bit of movement. It’s comfy, feminine, and kinda artsy in the best way.
Ready to Flannel Up?
Flannel shirts aren’t just some seasonal staple you pull out once a year. They’re super versatile, comfy AF, and with a little styling magic, they can work with literally every aesthetic — from soft girl to streetwear king to full-on grunge throwback.
So don’t sleep on your flannel this fall. Play around. Try something new. And if someone says, “You look so put together,” just smile and say, “Oh this old thing?” 😉
Catch you next style season. Until then — stay warm, stay cute, and own that flannel.