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Trendy flannels and leggings that look great together

The flannel shirt's versatility is a perfect match for go-anywhere leggings. Flannel shirts are the perfect casual transition piece for cold weather. Thanks to the growing assortment of styles and cuts ranging from classic and fitted to oversized, flannel shirts are having a new fashion moment. Combine them with leggings for a laid-back look perfect for winter outings.

In this article: Yummie Rachel Full-Length Cotton Stretch Shapewear Legging, Felina Velvety Soft Lightweight Leggings 4-Pack and Legendary Whitetails Women's Cottage Escape Flannel Shirt.

What is flannel?

Flannel is a soft, woven fabric usually made from natural fibers like cotton or wool. Some flannel shirts are made with synthetic materials, such as polyester, but these tend to be less durable, less breathable and not as comfortable as cotton or wool flannel.

To give flannel its coveted softness, it's brushed on one or both sides in a process called "napping." This loosens the fibers and gives the fabric a raised texture that traps heat and feels soft.

Since the cotton in flannel can be prone to shrinking, consider ordering up a size or even two when you're shopping for flannel shirts, especially if you want to wear yours over several layers in cold weather.

How to style flannel and leggings

Flannel shirts are famously versatile. Depending on the style, they can look punk, streetwear, outdoorsy or anywhere in between. They can be worn buttoned, unbuttoned or tied at the hips, and they can be dressed up or down by layering with anything from turtlenecks to crop tops. If you prefer more coverage when styling with leggings, try oversized or tunic-style flannel shirts, which have a longer length than traditional flannel shirts.

The flannel print can determine your outfit's vibe as well. Stick with classic red or white buffalo check for a time-tested look, or coordinate your outfit around a plaid woven with unusual colors, such as orange, pink or teal. For a more dressed-up, sophisticated twist, try a solid or tone-on-tone flannel. To put the finishing touch on your outfit, pick a similarly laid-back shoe style, such as chunky boots, canvas sneakers or flats.

Flannel shirt care

A high-quality flannel shirt can last for years, getting even softer and more comfortable as time goes on. However, flannel shirts do need to be washed carefully to ensure they stay in good shape. Since most are made with cotton, they run the risk of shrinking, so wash them in cold water only. Avoid putting them in the dryer unless you want them to shrink. Some higher-end flannel shirts made with wool may need to be hand-washed or dry-cleaned.

Best flannel for leggings

Legendary Whitetails Women's Cottage Escape Flannel Shirt

This classic cozy flannel shirt comes in 19 colors to create your perfect layered look. The cotton shirt features chambray lining in the collar and cuffs, and it's slightly fitted at the waist.

Sold by Amazon

Outdoor Research Feedback Flannel Shirt

Designed with the outdoors in mind, this is made with fabric that keeps you warm yet stays comfortable and breathable. It comes in two plaid patterns as well as solid navy. As a bonus, it has side pockets.

Sold by Amazon

Lands' End Flannel A-Line Tunic Top

The A-line cut of this tunic-length flannel shirt makes it a cozy yet flattering match for leggings. It has one chest patch pocket and hidden button-front closures for a clean look.

Sold by Kohl's

Best leggings for flannel

Hue Cotton Leggings

These cotton leggings are the perfect go-to pair for wearing with flannel. Unlike athletic leggings that may provide an uncomfortable level of compression, these are soft, stretchy and comfortable. These mid-rise leggings come in black, gray and navy.

Sold by Amazon

Yummie Rachel Full-Length Cotton Stretch Shapewear Legging

These sturdy yet comfortable leggings provide light shaping and high-waisted support whether you're lounging or going out. They fit true to size, and the high percentage of cotton in the stretch fabric makes them soft and opaque.

Sold by Amazon

Lululemon Align Hi-Rise Pant

These popular high-rise leggings feature a supportive lay-flat waistband with a small pocket. The comfortable fabric is made with Lycra for better stretch recovery. Some colors are available double-lined for more warmth on chilly days.

Sold by Amazon

Felina Velvety Soft Lightweight Leggings 4-Pack

This popular leggings brand is a steal in this four-pack. The leggings feature a comfortable mid-rise waist, and the velvety fabric is comfortable year-round. Choose all-black or an assortment of neutral shades.

Sold by Amazon

Worth checking out

 

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Laura Duerr writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers.

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