Fashion is subjective. However, just like most people, I have my own opinions about what looks good and what doesn’t. Naturally, I have an opinion about whether it’s okay for someone to wear a flannel shirt with a Henley shirt underneath or even a turtleneck shirt. So, where do I stand?
Pairing a flannel with a Henley is a classic while pairing a flannel and a turtleneck is a fashion crime. While some might disregard my viewpoint on these fashion expressions, just take a few minutes to hear me out.
Flannel and Henly Paired: Dressed For Comfort and Versatility
If you’re looking for a comfortable classic look that’s easy for just about anyone to pull off, then I suggest you pair a Henly with a flannel shirt over it. This is an especially great look for those cooler weather months. You can stay warm and take the top layer off if it warms up while you’re out and about.
Whether you’re young or old, this look is a classic. You wear this combination just about anywhere you go on casual days. It’s ideal for doing chores around the house or even going hiking on a crisp day.
The possibilities are endless. Another benefit is that you can make nearly endless patterns and colors combinations that look great and give you plenty of flexibility.
If you have a handful of well-made, comfortable Henley shirts and just as many flannels, you can have tons of choices throughout the year. I feel like the average person who wants to be comfortable but still look good will love this pairing. Here’s an added bonus. You can make this look cafe-friendly, or it can be rugged.
All you have to do is change the style of the pants and the type of shoes you wear with them. Do you want a rugged outdoorsy look? Wear some work boots, loose-fit jeans, or cargo pants, and you’re ready to work, hike, fish, or chop some wood.
Are you planning on going to the coffee shop to hang out on your weekend or meet some friends? Pair these shirts with classic straight-cut jeans or khakis, and you have the perfect day off look. Like this recent quote from Top Trends Guide – “Flannel shirts are perfect for a casual coffee run, brunch date, a walk in the park, or just lounging at home.”
I highly recommend adopting this style because it adds variety and comfort while not costing a fortune. Plus, this look won’t go out of style. In my opinion, it’s a wardrobe staple.
A Flannel Shirt and Turtleneck: A Fashion Tragedy
I’m not sure where this look began to take off, but it needs to go back from whence it came. It is already a challenge to pair a turtleneck with a regular outfit and make it look good. However, those who possess a good sense of style can typically pull it off and even make it look sophisticated.
Just remember, though, that the turtleneck has claimed more than a few fashion victims along the way. Paired incorrectly or with pants that aren’t a good fit, it’s going to make you look like you just got dressed at the local Goodwill at night. It’s also worth noting that, as a recent blog quoted, “If you think your jaw is a funny shape, a turtle neck is not for you.”
So, anyone who is self-conscious about their jaw or neck areas will draw attention to this area of the body. Pairing this turtleneck with flannel is just going to make it stand out even more.
If you must wear flannel, do it without the turtleneck, or vice versa. Who knows, perhaps you’re one of the few who could pull this busy look together, but the rest of us are going to need to pass on this fashion statement. If you simply must wear a turtleneck, try to keep your color scheme less bold and avoid too many layers.
Summary
If you want to wear flannel regularly and want to put another layer underneath it, I feel like the Henley shirt is a perfect choice. You can mix and match in endless ways and provide versatility and value to your wardrobe. However, when it comes to wearing a turtleneck with flannel, I suggest you consider your selection carefully.
Of course, you can dress however you choose, but it might not be a good look for most people, in my opinion. I’ll always encourage fashion freedom, but I think most people would better choose the Henley to pair with their flannel shirts.