The Story of Flannel: From a Low-Key Start to Becoming the Fashion Buzz
In the fashion industry, flannel has become one of the most-used fabrics. Crafted out of cotton, wool, or a blend of both, it’s known for its warmth and softness. Its ability to be dressed up or down makes it suitable for different occasions. Thanks to its timeless appeal and flexibility, it has become a must-have in the wardrobes of many people.
Right from a modest start to high-fashion adaptations, it has successfully made its way from the runway to the everyday life of celebs and commoners alike. Want to know how? Read on!
The appeal of flannel goes beyond its functionality and comfort. This super-soft fabric has a rich history in the fashion industry.
FLANNEL’S HISTORY IN FASHION
You can trace the roots of flannel in the fashion industry back to the 17th C when it used to be typically worn by Welsh peasants. Due to its warmth and long-lastingness, the material came to be loved by the workers. The laborers celebrated it because of its ability to bear harsh conditions.
Flannel shirts were linked with the lumberjack look in the 19th C. The outdoorsy and sturdy feel of the fabric was greatly appreciated by those who worked in the logging industry. Its association with masculinity and hard work strengthened its place in pop culture.
The journey of flannel from work uniforms to the fashion world continued in the 20th C. Flannel gained true recognition in the 1990s. Fashion icons and musicians such as Kurt Cobain made it crazy popular during this grunge period, offering it an effortlessly cool vibe.
Slowly, it became an emblem of non-conformity and counterculture, and its collaboration with the grunge movement made it a must-have in the closets of those finding an alternative to the usual.
REASONS WHY FLANNEL IS A STAPLE IN FASHION
The prime reason why flannel remains a staple in fashion is because of its capability to adjust to changing trends. Other than wearing it as a shirt, you can use it as a jacket or even as an accessory. Its flexibility lets fashion lovers experiment with various styles and looks.
The fabric’s link with nostalgia adds to its crazy popularity. Be it during the grunge era or simply wearing it as a warm and cozy outfit, many people have loving memories of throwing it on during their youth. The sentimental value makes the material a cherished fabric that goes beyond generations.
Of course, its popularity goes beyond the fashion appeal as it’s the very symbol of relaxation and comfort. The warmth and softness of the material make it a go-to choice for those who are totally into loungewear, thus offering a comforting and cozy experience.
HOW FLANNEL GOT EMBRACED IN THE WORLD OF HIGH FASHION
Once linked with grunge fashion and streets, the fabric has now found its way into the high-fashion runways, working its magic on fashion lovers and designers alike. Its evolution from a modest material to a sign of class and luxury is truly noteworthy.
By reimagining its conventional use and creating classy and luxurious pieces, the designers have taken the soft and smooth fabric to new heights. Flannel’s flexibility has been showcased through refined flannel suits that talk about elegance and power. Often displaying fabulous tailoring and detailed patterns, these suits have become a must-have in the closets of fashion-forward people.
Seen flannel dresses, right? The fabric has been smoothly converted into modish dresses, effortlessly blending fashion and comfort. The warmth and softness of the flannel make it a great choice for creating feminine, flowing silhouettes that flatter the curves well (do check out the flannel bodycon dresses).
Designers have played a crucial part in bringing out the best. Some notable examples are:
Isabel Marant: A designer well-known for her bohemian, effortless aesthetic, Marant has included flannel in her collections. Her designs often show comfortable and relaxed silhouettes and the fabric ideally goes with her signature style. She has brought such flannel blouses and flannel shirts wholesale that smoothly mix with her other designs, thus adding a touch of texture and warmth to her boho-chic outfits.
Marc Jacobs: A trendsetter in the fashion industry, he has also shown his love for the fabric in his collections. Famed for his daring and bold designs, Marc has used flannel in refreshing and unexpected ways. Using his creative imagination, he has experimented with oversized flannel shirts, layering them with refined materials and accessories, therefore forming an innovative proximity of high-fashion and casual things.
Stella McCartney: Popular for her commitment to planet-friendly fashion, McCartney has embraced the fabric as a part of her eco-conscious designs. Skillfully combining the material with other sustainable fabrics, she has brought clothing items that are not only stylish but earth-friendly as well.
Therefore, the journey of the fabric from the streets to the runways is proof of the ever-developing nature of fashion. Its conversion into a material that is both flexible and refined has grabbed the attention of designers and fashion lovers all across the world.
THE LOVE OF THE RENOWNED MODELS FOR FLANNEL FASHION
Popular models have proved how much they love flannel fashion. Two of the biggest names in this list are:
Bella Hadid
Once the weekend comes, a go-to outfit choice for most women is comfortable sweatpants and an oversized t-shirt. However, when you wish to step out wearing these, you need to make a bit more effort, and Bella Hadid teaches you how. Putting a surprisingly chic spin to the 90s flannel, she wore lace-up hiking boots over soft plaid high-waisted trousers. She kept the top wear simple with a midriff-baring crop top and fur-detailed cardigan.
Emily Ratajkowski
Want a more recent instance? It’s Emily Ratajkowski. Last year, a week before the biggest celebration, she was spotted in a red plaid trench coat that featured a thick fur detail in the hem. The statement piece displayed wide black buttons and a matching belt. She combined the coat with straight-legged black pants and black low-top sneakers.
INCLUDING FLANNEL IN EVERYDAY WEAR
The flexibility of the flannel goes beyond the high-fashion world. You can smoothly incorporate it into your everyday wardrobe and create a wide range of comfortable and snazzy attire. The possibilities are endless.
Casual outfits with flannel
Combine your flannel shirt with the equally classy denim jeans and your favorite sneakers for a casual and laid-back look. The cozy, soft texture of the material will add a relaxed, comfortable vibe to your outfit. For added style, you can finish the ensemble with a trendy denim jacket and a cool beanie.
To meet friends at the nearby cafe during winter, nothing can work better than a flannel sweater over a basic tee. As for bottoms, use quality chinos and rely on ankle boots for the shoes.
Ever gone to the gym in flannel? Just try it once! The time when the chilly season slowly approaches, you can throw on a flannel jacket on top of a hot sports bra and high-waist leggings. Before exercising, you can always take it off!
Dressed-up looks with flannel
Wear a flannel cocktail dress with a little bit of embroidery on it when you have a black-tie event to attend. Make sure it’s sleeveless and accessorize with chunky jewelry.
Got a get-together? Consider layering a flannel shirt with a lightweight leather vest and throw on knee-high boots on top of your dark blue jeans.
To rock an office party, make use of a crochet cropped top and flannel skirt. It will give you a pretty unique appearance.
Flannel offers a broad range of options when it comes to colors and patterns. Right from the iconic red and black combinations to more eye-soothing earth tones, from gingham, windowpane, and checkered to houndstooth, glen, and tattersall, go for a shade and pattern that suits your style and preferences.
FLANNEL TRENDS BASED ON SEASONS
Flannel is not tied to just a particular season but you can wear it all year round. You just need to go for slight variations to suit the weather.
In summer and spring
Opt for softer and lighter flannel fabrics during warmer months. Search for flannel clothing items in soothing shades like pastels or if you have a thing for the bold and colorful, then you can also go for bright patterns. The latter is undoubtedly great for adding a touch of cheer and freshness to the outfit. For beach days or picnics, you can style a flannel skirt with a silky-smooth blouse.
In fall and winter
Flannel becomes a go-to material for its comfort and warmth as the temperature drops. To get the best out of it, layer your flannel shirt over a plain tee or a turtleneck sweater. For a snug and fashionable outfit, you can pair it with leggings, jeans, or even a skirt.
SECRETS TO MAINTAIN ITS QUALITY AND SOFTNESS
Proper care is vital to ensure the longevity of your private label flannel clothing. Below are some tips that will help you maintain the quality and softness of your flannel pieces:
- It’s highly recommended to use cold water and a gentle cycle to prevent shrinkage.
- Turn out flannel pieces inside out before cleaning them as flannel is prone to pilling.
- Never use bleach or harsh detergents as it can ruin the fabric for good.
- Air-drying is advised when drying the items.
- Don’t hang them under direct sunlight for extended periods as this can cause fading.
- To prevent moisture build-up, store the pieces in a dry and cool place.
As flannel constantly evolves, you can expect more unusual and interesting interpretations of this classic material in the world of fashion.
