What is flannel?
A soft yet durable cotton fabric with a napped finish on one or both sides, flannel is your go-to textile for the colder months. Loosely woven to create a 'brushed' effect, flannel is a cosy fabric that will keep you both snug and comfortable throughout winter.
With its origins rooted in Wales, flannel has been used for centuries due to its wicking nature and incredible warmth. Originally made of wool, since the 20th century it has been more common to make it using cotton.
In the 19th century, flannel was reportedly worn by middle- and upper-class men who would wear flannel blazers for a variety of sports including tennis and cricket.
Following the First World War, the need for casualwear became prevalent thanks to the shift in men's lifestyles and more disposable income. And while flannel suits became popular among Ivy League students of the 1950s, they're now the perfect blend of formalwear and casualwear that will sit pretty in any man's wardrobe.
Why choose a flannel suit?
Perfect for the autumn and winter months, flannel is a warm material that will keep you cosy no matter how much the temperature drops. With built-in insulation, flannel is often derived from cotton, or sometimes wool, and is loosely spun to create its nap-faced, fuzzy finish.
Suits made from flannel are no exception. With guaranteed thermal insulation while offering a failsafe 'wicking' process (which removes sweat from the body), flannel suits offer a polished look with endless practicality. Alongside comfort and durability, they won't irritate the skin, making them an ideal contender in your formalwear arsenal.
As versatile as they are practical, flannel suits look great no matter the occasion. Once considered a more casual approach to suiting, flannel suits are now a popular choice for formal attire. This is partially due to flannel's anti-wrinkle guarantee due to the nap-faced finish. So, if you're on a business trip or need to travel to a wedding this season, consider a flannel suit for a polished look without the need for a travel iron.
Seasonal colours for flannel suits
Come autumn and winter, it's wise to invest in earthy tones to complement the nature of these colder seasons. Popular flannel suit colours include traditional navy and light grey, although those with a more contemporary palate could be swayed by camel-coloured offerings.
Opting for a darker colour can make for a visually-striking addition to your autumn/winter wardrobe. Not only can these shades take you effortlessly from day to night dressing, they complement seasonal dress codes, such as your annual Christmas work party.
Styling a flannel suit
Since flannel suits float effortlessly between casualwear and formal dressing, you can style yours in a myriad of ways.
Formal styling: Pair your flannel suit with a smart dress shirt, classic black tie and your finest pair of brogues for a look that's synonymous with timeless formality.
Smart-casual styling: For a more casual, off-duty approach, consider pairing your flannel suit with the latest knitwear - a must-have for autumn/winter. A classic roll-neck jumper will not only keep you extra snug but add an air of contemporary style to any flannel suit.
Accessories: Don't skimp on this part; a simple belt can elevate any outfit by not only defining the waistline but adding bonus texture for visual appeal. Shoes can also make or break an outfit. Make sure to invest in the finest shoes to add polish to your flannel suit.
Seasonal layering: There's no such thing as too many layers come winter. Elevate your look with a practical overcoat that will stand the test of time as well as a men's scarf made from the finest merino wool in a shade of your liking.
To conclude, men's flannel suits are a failsafe addition to your wardrobe come autumn and winter thanks to their durability, warmth and timeless appeal. Invest in your own flannel suit and save money by signing up to the Suit Direct newsletter, where you'll receive 15% off your first purchase and stay on top of the latest sales, trends and styling tips.
