Every year as the temperatures begin to drop, some version of the meme below shows up on my socials. It’s so true! Do you struggle to look ladylike when you’re in flannel (or even just a plaid print)? Today’s post has some styling tricks on how to wear flannel and still look feminine.

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Tip 1: Look for Feminine Details
The easiest way to look ladylike in flannel is to shop with femininity in mind. Look for details like:
- a light ruffle at the neck, cuff, or used as trim
- lighter-weight fabrics as opposed to very thick, heavy flannels
- feminine color palettes
- collarless flannels like band or v-neck versions
- peasant or slight bell sleeves
- or even a dress!
Now that’s all fine if you’ve yet to shop but what if you already have a traditional flannel button-down in your closet and are wondering how to fem it up?
Tip 2: Show Your Shape
If you have a traditional flannel button-down, try cinching it at the waist or belting it. Belting works best with a shirt that is thigh-length or longer whereas a half-tuck or tie can work with shorter shirts.
I love this method of tying your tails through the placket of the shirt as a neater way to form a knot. It defines your waist and the knot tails add an additional feminine vibe.
Tip #3: Choose a Waist Defining Layer
Some flannel shirts just may not lend themselves to either a tuck, tie or belt – particularly those that are made of thicker fabric. In this instance, try letting a layer define your waist instead. As flannels are pretty warm on their own, I look for belted vests. Sweater vests, puffer vests, utility vests, etc. all come in variations with belts or ties.
A few more belted vest ideas are shown below!
I hope you enjoyed this post and learned that you don’t have to look like a lumberjack when wearing flannel! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and safe travels to any of you heading out of town. I’ll be back again on December 2nd. I’ll be posting on Instagram and LiketoKnowIt in the interim and hope you follow me there and stay in touch.
Until next time…keep cultivating a simple, stylish, and satisfying life!

