There are several things that come to mind when I think of the Pacific Northwest: rain, mountains, forests, coffee, hipsters and, most definitely, flannels. Let me put it this way: If this region had a flag, the material would undeniably be made of flannel.
Being that I have more flannel-styled shirts than days in the week, I may be somewhat biased. However, when you live in the Pacific Northwest, you have to dress like the Pacific Northwest. My obsession may stem from the fact that whenever I step into downtown Moscow, I almost immediately find a flannel-clad pedestrian crossing the street, or that even though flannels are utilized most during the fall and winter months, they are perfect for any season.
Hailey Stewart
Looking trendy and fashionable in the Pacific Northwest only takes a few key pieces of clothing. Arguably the most important of those pieces is – you guessed it – a well-tailored flannel. Most flannel shirts come in a thicker material, but some carry a lighter weight with the same checker and stripe pattern. With all kinds of fits, styles and colors, flannels work great for both men and women all year round.
To the skeptical women reading this: Flannels might carry a predominantly masculine feel, but they belong in female closets as well. Flannels are versatile for all outfit choices, and very trendy right now.
A classic outfit combination is jeans and a favorite flannel. Paired with a neutral colored jacket like navy blue, olive green or black, the flannel”s colors will pop. For an extra preppy touch, layer a flannel under a sweater and let the collar and sleeve cuffs show. Along with dark skinny jeans and ballet flats, this outfit gives off a perfect Pacific, studious vibe. For something that brings some edge, wear a flannel over a black dress. Quite possibly the best part about the flannel is that it can easily be converted into loungewear. The soft, warm material is perfect to lounge around in on cold, rainy days that happen all too often in this area.
As for the flannel-loving men out there, worry not – you won”t end up looking like a lumberjack, a cowboy or a total hipster. A flannel shirt is an item that can easily be dressed up or dressed down without the hassle of too much styling effort.
The quintessential outfit for the Pacific Northwestern man is certainly a flannel and great dark wash jeans. For something a bit more tailored and neat, wear tan khakis with a light colored flannel. To add warmth and layers, vests, half zip pullover sweaters and cargo jackets are all trendy options to pair with a flannel. For a more relaxed look, leaving a flannel open with a neutral colored t-shirt underneath is a great way to put off a casual vibe. To create the ultimate Pacific Northwest look, wear a classic red flannel with dark jeans, a vest, and boots.
Not everyone needs a flannel for every day of the week, but investing in one or two and cycling them through your wardrobe to keep it versatile and fresh is completely doable. Yet, although the trend of the flannel may be a favorite, it is not the only fashion piece that the Pacific Northwest has to offer. Branch out and explore, and see what else the region brings to your style.
Hailey Stewart can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter at @Hailey_ann97