Flannel fabrics are renowned for their softness, firmness and comfort. It keeps you warm without overheating too much and it’s a great option for a work suit during colder days.
Flannel appeared first in the 17th century and most likely originated from Wales. Just like tweed, the woolen flannel has been very popular specially among the working class due to its various qualities: warmth, softness and moisture-wicking. In the dump and cold oceanic climate of Wales this breathable fabric will not retain moisture due to its loose weave. Although the English are the inventors of this fabric and are still the leaders in its production, the Italians have not been left behind and offer softer and lighter flannels under such famous brands as Vitale Barberis Canonico or Loro Piana.
In the process of creating flannel, the wool goes through the step of napping to create a soft texture that hides the weave. Napping breaks up the surface fibers of the fabric giving it a soft, tousled appearance. The fabric is then shaved to achieve a more even texture. Due to its loose weave, the flannel is not so rigid and fits very well to the body. It’s also appreciated for its softness as well as its thermoregulatory - this material keeps us warm without overheating. Flannel comes in a very wide range of colors from fuchsia to a classic charcoal which gives a great opportunity for a variety of styles. You can also choose its weight, depending on the intended use. Very heavy flannel may be used for outerwear, whereas the lighter one for a business suit.
Holland & Sherry proposes several collections from corded to worsted woolen flannel which gives you a range choice between heavier and lighter, more soft wool aka different utility. Worth mentioning are: “Classic Worsted Flannel”, “ Classic Flannel” and “Classic Woolen Flannel”. This was a choice of both Aleksandra and Christophe for their winter suits that are described below.
Aleksandra opted for “Classic Woollen Flannel”, which offers wool from sheep grazing on evergreen and protected pastures along the Highlands mountain range. Thanks to ethical and non-invasive breeding, animals produce fleece fibers that are extremely resistant and at the same time soft and shiny. The collection includes simple materials without a motif as well as classic stripes and checks, which allows you to create classic winter outfits.
Aleksandra's two-piece suit is made of flannel weighing 340g, which gives a very good drop and at the same time provides warmth during the coldest days of winter. The dark gray color with white tennis stripes is a classic of the kind. The jacket was sewn with standard options: peak lapel collar, straight pockets with flaps, chest pocket. The trousers break this conservative style by adding darts in front as well as side adjusters and cuffs at the bottoms. The goal was to create a business suit that would guarantee comfort and warmth.
Another proposal comes from the “Classic Flannel” collection, which includes a huge range of colors without a motif. This is a selection of worsted flannel, i.e. one that is combed during the production process to remove shorter fibers. This gives the wool a slightly less velvety feel than carded flannel, but it is more resistant and slightly lighter. Christophe’s suit is a 280g light steel blue two-piece with a double breasted jacket. The goal was to create a winter suit that would stand out from classic sets. This is an interesting proposition for people who already have several suits in their wardrobe and are looking for a change for colder days.
Flannel is a fabric worth considering for the fall and winter season, especially since it is hard to find in the collections of off-the-rack brands. Its great advantage is the fact that it is easy to use only the trousers or the jacket of your suit and combine them with other tops and bottoms to create a new look.