The flannel shirt, an item previously associated with being a lumberjack, has made its way into mainstream style these past couple of years. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’ve been completely missing out. However, it’s a new year and a new semester, and now’s your chance. I present: Five ways to wear flannel. Hopefully one of them is right for you.
One of everyone’s main concerns right now is staying warm, so we will start with the warmest option and possibly also the easiest. Go digging through your sweatshirts to find that old grey hoodie you wore in the ninth grade and wear it under your flannel.
These days, companies ac tually sell jackets with flannel patterns and hoods sticking out the back, but if you have both a f lannel shirt and any old hoodie, why go buy something new? Just pair this homemade jacket with your favorite t-shirt, jeans, and slip on sneakers. In a season that’s all about layers, this is the per fect flannel fix.
I f you’re looking for a somewhat class ier or preppier option—if I may call flannel either of those things—I have two solu tions. The first is to pair your flannel with a skirt. My go-to skirt is black, keeping it clean and sophis ticated with color. If you go for too bold of a color, it will clash with your f lannel. Shape-wise, go for a skater skirt or a mini. Leather in ei ther of these shapes is welcome.
When you’re look ing for shoes for these outf its, stick with the dressier options, like Jeffrey Campbell chunky heels. But if you are concerned about tripping on the loose bricks that cover our campus and want to play it safe, I’d suggest a cute pair of flats.
When dressing any thing up, accessories are of great importance. For this particular look I would add a statement necklace, and if you button up your shirt all the way, a bib necklace would look great and contributes some extra sparkle along the collar.
Another classier option for flannel involves boots and leggings, the neces sities of college girls everywhere, particu larly in the winter. You’re going to want an oversized flannel for this because it will func tion as a long shirt or even a dress.
Belt the flannel at your waist to show off y ou r curves. And, like I said, accessories are a big contribution, no mat ter how small. A skinny belt would work best and little details like a bow or perhaps a pop of color or glitter would definitely draw more attention in this outfit.
The next way to wear flan nel is for the fashion adventurers: Tying a flannel shirt around your waist, as seen on fashion bloggers, A-list celebrities, and rappers alike this year. It doesn’t look as bad as it sounds. It may just be a bit more punk than you are used to.
Wear this look with a graphic tee or tank, topped off wi th a beanie and boots. The beanies with a rolled cuff at the bot tom and slogans are par ticularly ‘in’ right now. As for boots, I would suggest either a combat or cut-out style.
The final flair of f lannel is for the warmer months, as you can wear the flannel unbuttoned over a summery tank or crop top. Grab your jean shorts. Whether you prefer high-waisted or not, this look works ei ther way, and any summer shoes are fitting with this style.
Whether your flannel is borrowed from your boyfriend, stolen from your dad’s closet or simply purchased from your favorite store or thrift shop, don’t be afraid to try something new with it. Flannel is gaining popularity, so start incorporating it into your wardrobe. Besides, I’ve just given you enough ways to wear it every day of the school week!
Sam Roe, a freshman in international studies, likes to wear flannel because "it is comfortable and a nicer way to wear an oversized shirt."
