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Flannel Shirts

 

When the winds turn brisk and the temperature outside begins to drop as the cool weather of Autumn sets in, you can keep yourself warm and comfortable wearing flannel shirts.

Flannel fabric can be made from either cotton or wool, and the output can be altered to produce various degrees of weight and fineness. The production of flannel cloth originated in Wales during the 17th century as the result of mills developing the technique of carding, a way to process raw fibers for textiles.

As carding mills spread throughout Europe and North America over the next two centuries, so did the production and availability of flannel for use as a primary fabric for garments.

Since flannel offered warmth along with softness, it became a common fabric for the making of sleepwear and sheets for bed. Since it had a tight weave and could be produced as a cloth thicker than spun cotton, it served well against the wind. This made flannel shirts popular wear with those who worked outdoors and partook in activities such as logging, hunting, fishing, and farming.

Today, men's flannel shirts and women's flannel shirts are still popular for cold weather activities but are also well-known for being comfortable fashion wear. These shirts are made in a variety of colors, both solid and plaid, and appropriately styled for the differences in body shapes of ladies and gents.

There are brand name and generic brand flannel shirts but don't let name recognition dictate your purchase. Many discount flannel shirts and cheap flannel shirts offer more protection against the elements than brand name shirts made to be worn only indoors for the sake of fashion.