Have you ever thought about where that flannel shirt that you are wearing came from? The origin of flannel is unknown, but scholars indicate that it has a Welsh origin a fabric quite which can be described as near in texture to flannel and the roots go back to 16th century Wales. The word that described it then was flannels and Flanell, which owes its origin to Germany, became popular in the early part of the 18th century.
Flannel has been in production since the early part of the 17th century and has slowly replaced the cottons or friezes, which was actually a textile product. In the 19th century, flannel was produced in towns like Newtown, Montgomeryshire, Hay on Wye and Llanidloes and the spurt in flannel production can be traced back to the spread of carding mills, which made the wool for spinning and this was the initial mechanized production of flannel.
Flannel became popular over time and in the Northern part of US, flannelette, more commonly known as flannel, and initially thought to be fit only for the men of rough trade – like woodsmen, lumberjacks, carpenters and the like. Today, the misconception and the myths surrounding it have been busted and as such, it is now made for even gentlemen since flannel white shirts have been made popular by cricketers. It has also been made popular as a common wear – for pajamas, baby wear, men’s clothing for the winters, etc.
Flannel has been made popular also by rock stars or what you call, the grungers. This can be attributed to the fact that the rock stars of the generation also wore it and it slowly became a style statement to swear by! In fact, flannel plaid shirts are also sold at luxury retail outlets like Bloomingsdale, Land’s End, Abercromie & Fitch and other places.
Flannel slowly picked up in popularity and has come to the clothing of choice in even places like Asia which sees swinging temperatures and sudden cold to Europe which sees perennial snowfall and chilly nights.
In fact, its popularity can be gauged by the fact that even ladies wear has now come to be designed in flannel. So, now you can actually see flannel evening wear, dresses made of flannel, short-knit skirts, and flannel tees and long sleeved and puffed up sleeves shirts.
So, wear flannel, and make it popular, it will come affordable, in a riot of colors and also keep you warm and safe. Indulge and create your own style.
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