5 ways to wear flannel without looking like a '90s throwback

Fashion


5 ways to wear flannel without looking like a '90s throwback

By Amy Davidson

6 years ago

In partnership with Muji

Flannel is all well and good until you realise you look like you’ve walked straight out of the bad version of the ‘90s. Here’s how to give it a stylish update for 2019…

There’s no knocking ‘90s fashion. We’ve been embracing the era that gave us equal doses of grunge and the Spice Girls with everything from slip dresses to hair clips.

But when it comes to flannel, it’s a hard frontier to cross without accidentally going full Nirvana superfan.

And with the fabric looking to make a comeback, we’ve put together 5 looks to help you nail the trend without going full fancy dress.

1. Make it workwear

Flannel might sound like your perfect lounging fabric, but with the right companions, it can also be office appropriate. 

Opt for a pair of smart but stylish trousers and team it with a plaid shirt. 

Next, channel everything you learnt from Queer Eye and give yourself a French tuck for the perfect midweek work outfit.

Finally, a patent heel will give your outfit the final polish to take your flannel from band to boardroom.

Flannel check blouse, Muji

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Paper bag trousers, Mango

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High heel shoes, Zara

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2. Nail neutral 

One of the easiest ways to modernise your flannel collection is to opt for a neutral colour palette.

Take a beige-coloured flannel top like this one from Muji and pair it with something that adds a little edge, because no colour doesn’t have to mean no personality.

Something like a vinyl midi skirt in a neutral hue is the perfect partner.

Flannel tunic, Muji

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Vinyl skirt, Topshop

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Heeled sandals, & Other Stories

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Hoop earrings, Astrid & Miyu

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3. Dress it up

Applying your flannel sensibilities to a dress is an easy way to bring it into the 21st century.

This one from Muji has the eternal benefit of buttons, which you can leave undone over a crisp white tee and ivory jeans for a chic daytime look.

Go for a block colour over the classic ‘90s plaid and finish the look with a pair of Doc Martens to maintain a subtle grunge aesthetic.

Flannel dress, Muji

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Cropped jeans, Marks & Spencer

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White T-shirt, Misha Nonoo

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Vegan shoes, Dr Martens

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4. Go collarless 

One noticeable way to update your flannel wardrobe? Axe the collar.

Go for a shirt without the classic collar and you immediately refresh the ‘90s look without completely losing the plaid anchor that makes it a signature piece.

Team with a slick of red lipstick such as cult favourite Charlotte Tilbury Red Carpet Red to give it a hint of classic glamour, but keep it casual with a pair of white trainers.

Flannel shirt, Muji

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Twill trousers, Weekday

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Stan Smith trainers, Adidas

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Lipstick, Charlotte Tilbury

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5. Make it monochrome

If your wardrobe is mostly comprised of slightly different shades of black, you’re in luck.

Going monochrome with flannel is the 2019 take on ‘90s plaid. As summer has all but evaporated, what better way to wear it than in a jumper dress?

A pair of white stone earrings and white ankle boots will add the balance you need to complete your full monochrome look.

Flannel pullover, Muji

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Earrings, Whistles

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Aurella boots, Aldo

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Style flannel your way and shop other stylish looks at Muji

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