When I think of fall, I think of falling leaves, warm caramel apple cider (or pumpkin spice for my coffee-drinking husband), apple cider donuts, pumpkins, and, of course, flannel. Like every good cozy fall read, flannel makes us feel safe and snug. This surprisingly versatile material works in most interior spaces, from traditional to modern.
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A classic textile that brings warmth, softness, and comfort
A common misconception is that flannel and plaid are the same thing. Flannel is a soft, woven fabric often made from natural materials such as wool or cotton that is brushed or napped to trap heat and create that loved fuzzy texture. Plaid is a specific pattern, like checked or tartan designs that can be printed on non-flannel fabric. It can be confusing, as flannel material often features plaid patterns.
Plaid throw pillows
Why is Flannel loved during the cold season?
There are several reasons why flannel is a loved fabric for the cold months. The napping process lifts the fabric’s fibers, creating a soft and fuzzy material. This fuzzy texture has microscopic air pockets that trap your natural body heat next to your skin for protection against chilly drafts. The woven structure of flannel allows air to circulate. It absorbs moisture, naturally wicking it away from your body so you never feel sweaty or clammy. The best part about this unique fabric is thermal equilibrium. A fancy way of saying its raised fibers won’t hold ambient cold, so it feels warm as soon as it touches your skin.
My Favorite Ways to Use Flannel in Interiors
During the colder seasons, I like to lean into flannels for bedding and linens. Think Ralph Lauren style! Swapping summer linens out for flannel sheets and pillowcases is a popular choice in the bedroom. Performance flannel is great to use on accent chairs or ottomans for a rich, lived-in feel. If committing to flannel feels scary, try adding in a few flannel pillows or a throw for seasonal layers.
Luxury Organic Flannel Sheet Set
Luisa Arm Chair, Performance Flannel
Styles That Pair Well With Flannel
Modern Traditional: Elevate traditional flannel with a modern twist that feels like your favorite Nancy Meyers film and a Ralph Lauren catalog had a baby. I would pair dark wood furniture, deep navy, charcoal, and cream with brass accents and soft tartan plaid flannel layers for a timeless look.
Rustic Lodge: Add a charming cabin feel by pairing dark greens and red with raw wood, leather, and black iron accents. Taxidermy is welcome but optional!
Warm Minimalist: If patterns and lots of color aren’t your vibe, try pairing understated cream or beige flannel fabric with light oak wood tones and add subtle textures to keep things interesting.
Flannel Windowpane Quilt
How to Style Flannel Without Making Your Home Feel Outdated
It’s important to balance strong patterns with solid colors. You want to achieve a tailored look with simple accessories and streamlined furniture. Use natural and woven textures like wood, wool, greenery, and baskets. Stick to a restrained color palette, choosing only one or two flannel accents per room so it feels very intentional. Introduce warm lighting at varying heights for maximum coziness.
When I think of fall, I think of falling leaves, warm caramel apple cider (or pumpkin spice for my coffee-drinking husband), apple cider donuts, pumpkins, and, of course, flannel. Like every good cozy fall read, flannel makes us feel safe and snug. This surprisingly versatile material works in most interior spaces, from traditional to modern.