Style guide
How to style a flannel shirt
A flannel shirt is a shirt and a light jacket at once. The outfits below all include one, worn open over a T-shirt, buttoned under a jacket or paired with a knit.
Updated 4 November 2026 · 6 outfits in this guide
01
Open over a T-shirt
The simplest way: unbuttoned over a plain or long-sleeve T-shirt, sleeves rolled once. White, off-white and black T-shirts let the check stand out.
02
Under a jacket
Buttoned up, a flannel works as the shirt layer under a suede jacket, a work jacket or a padded vest. Choose a jacket in a plain colour that picks up one colour of the check.
03
With wide or straight jeans
Flannel and denim come from the same workwear tradition. Grey and light-wash jeans suit brown and grey checks; wide cuts give a looser look.
04
Choose brown and grey checks
Brown, grey and muted checks are easier than bright red ones and go with more trousers and shoes. Repeat the brown in the shoes or a beanie.
Shop the pieces
05
Finish with suede sneakers or a beanie
Suede sneakers in brown or black and a ribbed beanie keep a flannel outfit relaxed without looking careless.
Questions
Should a flannel shirt be tucked in?
Usually not. Worn open or untucked suits the shirt's casual weight. Tuck it in only when it is buttoned under a jacket and worn with a belt.
What do you wear under a flannel shirt?
A plain or long-sleeve T-shirt in white, off-white or black.
Can a flannel shirt be worn as a jacket?
On mild days, yes. A heavier flannel worn open over a T-shirt does the job of a light jacket.