How to Wear an Oversized Flannel Shirt

Co-authored by Dina Scherer and Hannah Madden

Last Updated: September 1, 2021 References

Putting on an oversized flannel is a fun and cozy way to spice up your outfit. You can wear it buttoned-up, completely open, or layered over other pieces—the possibilities are endless! We’ve compiled a few fun ways you can style your oversized flannel shirt to look cool and sophisticated every time you walk out the door.

1

Let your flannel stand out with a monochromatic outfit.

This is an easy, everyday look that you can throw on in minutes. Put on an all-black outfit, then throw your flannel on top.^{[1]
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- Jeans and a T-shirt always look great underneath an oversized flannel.^{[2]
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  Dina Scherer
  Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
  Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.}
- You can button your flannel up or you can leave it unbuttoned to show off your shirt.
- For a little bit of edge, try wearing black ripped jeans.

2

Layer a printed shirt over your flannel for a fun contrast.

If you’re feeling bold, this outfit can take you to the next level. Put on your flannel and button it up, then add a polka dot or striped shirt on top of it.^{[3]
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- If you want to go for a more modern look, try a sweater vest instead.
- Pair this outfit with some skinny jeans and heeled booties.^{[4]
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  Dina Scherer
  Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
  Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.}
- Grab a pair of large sunglasses to finish off this look.

3

Throw your flannel over a hoodie to stay warm.

This is an easy outfit to put together when you have nothing to wear. Pull on a hoodie, then put your flannel on top of it for a cool combination.^{[5]
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- Go for a pair of ripped jeans or joggers on the bottom to complete your outfit.
- Add a pair of sneakers or Chelsea boots to this look.
- Throw on a baseball cap to make this outfit even more casual.

4

Tuck your flannel into mom jeans for a casual outfit.^{[6]
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Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Expert Interview. 24 August 2021.}

You can wear this look heading out to lunch or hanging with friends. Put on a pair of high-waisted, straight leg jeans, then tuck your flannel into the waistband to define your figure.^{[7]
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- Keep this look casual with a pair of sneakers, or go more streetwear with some heeled boots.
- Accessorize with a small backpack or a fanny pack to hold your essentials.

5

Tie your flannel around your waist to save it for later.

You never know when your arms might get chilly. Put on a pair of jeans and a T-shirt, then wrap your flannel around your waist to define your figure.^{[8]
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- You can pair this look with wedge heels to make it a little more glamorous, or you can keep it casual with a pair of sneakers or flats.
- Add a pair of hoop earrings and a simple chain necklace to finish off your look.

6

Go out for the night in a midi skirt.

You can dress up with your flannel, too! Pull on a skirt that hits you at about mid-shin, then tuck your flannel into the waistband.^{[9]
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- To really add some edge to your outfit, go for a leather midi skirt and a pair of black heels.
- Finish your look with a pair of heels and a small clutch before you head out.

7

Dress your flannel up with trousers.

You can go out for a nice brunch in your flannel by dressing it up. Put on a pair of khakis or culottes, then tuck your flannel into the waistband for a cohesive outfit.^{[10]
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- Add a pair of pumps to really make this outfit fancy, or go for a slightly more casual look with flats or mules.
- Pair your look with a few bracelets or a watch to keep the accessories minimal.

8

Tie your flannel into a crop top for more versatility.

If you aren’t feeling the oversized look, you can make your flannel fitted. Put your flannel on and button it up, but leave the last few buttons undone. Tie the hanging ends together in a double knot to show a little bit of skin.^{[11]
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- Add a pair of skinny jeans and kitten heels to take this look out on the town.
- Or, keep it more casual with a pair of cropped wide legged jeans and sneakers.
- Put your essentials into a small handbag to complete this look.

9

Try a streetwear look with a sports bra and biker shorts.

This outfit is perfect for a warm summer’s day. Put on a pair of biker shorts and a sports bra, then throw your flannel on top.^{[12]
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- Add a pair of chunky white sneakers to really make this outfit pop.
- Put your essentials into a fanny pack and accessorize with a few chain necklaces.

10

Make a statement in over-the-knee boots.

Turn your flannel into a dress for a fun night out. Put on your flannel that hits about mid-thigh, then add a pair of tall boots to show some skin.^{[13]
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- If you need a little extra coverage, throw on a pair of bike shorts underneath.
- Accessorize with some long earrings and a few thin bracelets.
- Put your essentials into a small handbag before you head out.

Expert Q&A

Question

What do you wear with oversized flannel?

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Dina Scherer is an Image and Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Modnitsa Styling, based in New York City. With over a decade of experience, Dina specializes in color analysis, style development, closet editing, and personal shopping. She helps her clients elevate their personal style and curate a wardrobe aligned with their lifestyle. Dina holds degrees in Advertising and Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, and a Certificate in Image Consulting from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Dina Scherer

Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper

Expert Answer

Slip your flannel over a sweater dress or mid-dress for a casual, put-together look. As a finishing touch, layer a belt on top.
Question

Should you roll up flannel sleeves?

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Dina Scherer is an Image and Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Modnitsa Styling, based in New York City. With over a decade of experience, Dina specializes in color analysis, style development, closet editing, and personal shopping. She helps her clients elevate their personal style and curate a wardrobe aligned with their lifestyle. Dina holds degrees in Advertising and Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, and a Certificate in Image Consulting from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Dina Scherer

Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper

Expert Answer

That's a great idea! Rolling up your sleeves gives your arms a little more length, and helps you look more polished overall.
Question

Is flannel out of style?

Dina Scherer
Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper
Dina Scherer is an Image and Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Modnitsa Styling, based in New York City. With over a decade of experience, Dina specializes in color analysis, style development, closet editing, and personal shopping. She helps her clients elevate their personal style and curate a wardrobe aligned with their lifestyle. Dina holds degrees in Advertising and Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, and a Certificate in Image Consulting from the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Dina Scherer

Wardrobe Stylist & Personal Shopper

Expert Answer

Not at all! It really depends on how you wear it. Oversized flannel goes well with all kinds of clothes, from jeans and leggings to T-shirts and turtlenecks.