Flannel is a soft, medium-weight cotton fabric that has a napped, fuzzy, finish on one or both sides. This napped finish either comes from brushing or from its characteristic loose weave. Its soft, cozy feel makes it the perfect fabric to keep you warm and comfortable all winter long. It’s often woven with patterns, especially plaid and tartan, and is a favorite fabric for sheets during the winter.
Flannel has been made since the 17th century and likely originated in Wales. Though it was once made of wool, by the 20th century, flannel was more commonly made with cotton, sometimes mixed with silk. Nowadays, the softest, coziest flannel is 100% cotton.
Because flannel is warm and soft to the touch, it’s typically a cold-weather fabric perfect to keep you bundled up. Wear long-sleeve flannel button down shirts over a pair of jeans, for a classic Americana look. Women’s dresses can also be made with flannel, and you can also wear flannel tops tucked into high-waisted pants or skirts.
