From Lumberjack to Ralph Lauren

There was a time when flannel was only worn for practicality. It was a durable fabric that was lightweight, warm, and maybe a little itchy — the go-to style for the old-school lumberjack.

Fast forward to the nineties: Flannel was no longer seen as something practical for lumberjacks, as it became a staple in grunge fashion. People like Kurt Cobain wore the material with disheveled pride. It worked. Much like anything in fashion, flannel underwent a transformation. It evolved.

Now, fast forward to the present: We’re still lacking in the flying car area here in 2012, but there’s some good news — Flannel has undergone yet another transformation. It is no longer boxed into the category of “grunge” fashion. The material has been worked into designer collections like Ralph Lauren. Before you write flannel off as a passing fad, remember its practical uses. It is a great substitute for a heavy coat when layered properly, and don’t worry! They’ve essentially eliminated that annoying itch. Flannel is a versatile must-have for the winter months.

Now that you’ve been presented with this new information, what will you do with it? You could go rummaging through your father’s closet, you could go fishing for vintage flannel at a local thrift store, or you can head over to your local American Eagle, as they’ve got stockpiles in every color combination imaginable. The options are plentiful, especially if you know where to look.

Text Jarrod Wadsworth
Image Ralph Lauren

Sexy (and Cozy) Winter Chemise

Just because there's ice on the ground (well, not yet, but it's coming!) doesn't mean you have to hop into bed with your significant other in flannel pants and a sweatshirt. The thought of putting on a little silk number in the dead of winter makes us cringe. But what if your little silk number was actually flannel? Jackpot!

J.Crew's new cute flannel chemise will leave you warm and cozy — and a little bit sexy. Pair it with leggings and a comfy cardigan whenever you're loafing around the house.

Winter is looking better already. What are you hoping to wear to bed when it gets chilly?

Text Rebecca Baust

Source J.Crew