The Flannel Shirt Affair

The wet season is here again.  I know,  it's all about rain!  rain! rain!.  But not to worry,  you can still rock that stylish look without getting under the weather.

This time of the year is made for the coziest of all clothing. One of these clothing is the flannel shirt.

The word "flannel" has a Welsh origin. It comes from the word "gwlanen" meaning woolen article.  It can be traced back to 17th century Wales,  where farmers wore them to protect themselves from the elements. 

Flannel fabric was originally made from either carded wool or worsted yarn.  Modern day flannels are usually made with cotton,  wool or synthetic fibres. It is commonly used to make tartan clothing,  blankets,  bed sheets and sleepwear.

Although there is a great similarity between flannels and plaids,  please note that flannel is the actual fabric itself while plaid is a pattern which is believed to have originated in Scotland.

In this light,  the term "flannel shirt" is often used to mean any plaid or tartan pattern made with the flannel fabric.

Still having doubts about flannel shirts.  Please don't. Aside from the fact that they are warm,  they are also very easy to wear and come in lots of colours to suit everyone's taste.

Styling?  Not to worry.  It can be worn with a
Denim for a more casual look or with a skirt or trousers and finished off with a pair of pumps or brogues for an office look.

You can also switch styles by keeping it simple.  Pair your plaid flannel with a skinny jeans or shorts and nice flats.

Want to look chic and young.  This style comes in handy.  Tie your flannel round your waist.  It gives you this youthful look .

Flannels have definitely crossed the gender divide,  finding use in bags,  shoes,  dresses,  suits, etc. The list just goes on. So when next you're thinking of ditching that sweater, just grab a flannel shirt.  They come in handy.