Praised for their versatility, flannel shirts are a winter fashion staple for men and women for a reason. Don’t believe us? Just ask stylist Jackie Schiavone. “There is something so warm and cozy about a flannel shirt,” Schiavone says. “Originally designed as a utility button-down, flannels became a mainstream staple with the invention of the boyfriend shirt. This year, we are seeing more feminine silhouettes and romantic collars, making flannel shirts wearable for a variety of occasions.”

Schiavone notes that flannel and plaid are often connected, but she stresses that flannel shouldn’t be mistaken for the latter. As she explains, flannel refers to the weaving technique used to create a “warm, soft, napped fabric,” which she points out was initially made from wool. “Plaid is a fabric pattern where color lines intersect to create a variety of shapes and styles,” she says, adding, “Many flannels are now manufactured in cotton, making them more accessible and versatile.” Used to produce everything from dresses to pajamas, flannel can be worn year-round, according to Schiavone, which is good news for anyone wanting to wear flannel into the spring and summer. She also recommends purchasing a few high-quality flannel pieces this season since the choices will be more limited during the “off-season.”