14 of the Best Flannel Shirts to Rock All Autumn Long

editor@purewow.com (PureWow)

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 flannel tops 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.

What Is Flannel?

While you may immediately think of "plaid"—a pattern type—when you hear the word flannel, it's 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 Flannel Shirts

Given its popularity these days, flannel can be found just about anywhere—Target, Amazon, Banana Republic, 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 Flannel Shirts at a Glance

RELATED: It’s Time to Familiarize Yourself With the Ultimate Transitional Outerwear: The Shacket

1. Banana Republic Factory Boyfriend Flannel Shirt

Best overall flannel shirt

This flannel checks all the boxes—it's not too heavy and not too light, it's got a just-right fit that's not too boxy and it's made of a polyester and rayon blend that makes it durable-yet-breathable. In fact, customers say it's so comfortable, it's comparable to chilling in your pj's (but looks a whole lot more put together): "It's soft like pj's but looks professional for the office," one shopper wrote. "Can't get better than that!"

Buy It ($65 $28)

2. Brunette the Label Flannel Shirt Jacket

Most eco-friendly flannel shirt

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!

Buy It ($160)

3. Goodthreads Flannel Boyfriend Tunic

Best classic 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."

$31 at Amazon

4. BDG Caleb Cropped Flannel Shirt

Best cropped flannel shirt

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.

Buy It ($59)

5. Universal Thread Flannel Shirt

Most cozy flannel shirt

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 a great little chest pocket. According to Target shoppers, it's also extremely cozy. "So soft it's like a dream!" wrote one buyer.

Buy It ($20)

6. Madewell Flannel Sunday Shirt

Best flannel shirt with pockets

This shirt is the quintessential flannel, complete with an oversized fit and a functional chest pocket. Made of 100 percent cotton, it will be plenty breathable so as to play well for warmer fall days, and its hand-warming pockets are a standout feature that set it apart from the pack. You can also snag it in a Mahaska Plaid pattern.

Buy It ($88)

7. Blooming Jelly Flannel Shirt

Most stylish flannel shirt

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 three 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.

$28 at Amazon

8. Amazon Essentials Flannel Shirt

Best lightweight flannel shirt

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.

$22 at Amazon

9. SweatyRocks Boyfriend Flannel Shirt

Best boyfriend flannel shirt

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 40 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.

From $28 at Amazon

10. Dokotoo Flannel Shirt

Best heavy flannel shirt

This extra-thick flannel shirt, which comes in more than 30 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.

From $40 $33 at Amazon

11. Gap Oversized Flannel Shirt

Best cotton flannel shirt

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.

Buy It ($60 $47)

12. Zaful Plaid Flannel Shirt

Most versatile flannel shirt

This Zaful style consists of a wool 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 two breast pockets mean that you can keep your essentials close, and the loose silhouette means you won't be uncomfortable.

$41 at Amazon

13. BDG Keanu Varsity Flannel Shirt

Most unique flannel shirt

We love any flannel that’s just a little bit unique, and this one from BDG certainly hits the mark with its thermal raglan sleeves and striped, ribbed cuffs. The length is long enough to cover your bottom, and combination of the flannel bodice and thermal arms make this an incredibly cozy option.

Buy It ($69)

14. Emory Park Brynlee Oversized Flannel Shirt

Best oversized flannel shirt

This oversized shirt fits just like your boyfriend’s flannel, but the colors are super feminine, striking the perfect balance. The 70 percent cotton and 30 percent polyester fabric is warm but not quite as heavy as other options on the list, so it's perfect for almost any climate, too.

Buy It ($50)

RELATED: Brooklinen's Just Launched Its Flannel Sheets for Winter (and They're So Cozy)

PureWow may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from PureWow's editorial and sales departments.

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