A Hamlet-like doubt assails many men this season: “ What fabric to choose for autumn? ” There are many fabrics, from the most precious to the most inflated, but the two we want to recommend are flannel and warm cotton .

But let's try to clarify these two precious fabrics, understand how to choose them and how to match them depending on the occasion to look like a true gentleman from another era.

Difference between flannel and warm cotton

People often tend to get confused and think that warm cotton and flannel are the same thing, but in reality this is not the case at all, there are differences even though we are talking about high-quality fabrics. The substantial difference is that cotton is a natural fabric taken directly from the plant, while flannel is a fabric made of cotton, wool or synthetic fiber. In simple words, cotton is a fiber while flannel is a fabric .

Let's talk about cotton…

Cotton is a natural fiber derived from the plant of the same name, native to the tropical regions of Africa, South America and India. It is believed that this fiber has been used since 5000 BC. The fabric it creates is soft and breathable, often mixed with other fibers to create new fabrics. Mixing it, for example with linen, produces a light and resistant material.

Let's talk about flannel…

Flannel is a fabric derived from cotton, with a soft weave, which can also be made with wool, very warm. It has been used since the 17th century, especially for Scottish clothing, and it seems to have originated in Wales. Its surface is uniform and by retaining air it acts as a thermal insulator. Being very resistant it is often used to make jackets, trousers and men's shirts.

There are different types of flannel:

  • Baby flannel : a lightweight fabric used primarily for creating children's clothing
  • Vegetable flannel : made from Scots pine fibres instead of animal wool
  • Ceylon Flannel : Created through a blend of cotton and wool
  • Cotton flannel : a fabric flattened on one or two sides


Different uses of cotton and flannel

Cotton is typically used to create sheets, men's and women's clothing, t-shirts, pants, shirts, socks, and underwear. While flannel is indicated in some more refined men's clothing, such as plaid. Both of these choices are perfect for fall and winter, keeping you warm. Flannel fabrics are often combined with checked patterns.


Flannel is an ancient fabric, and for this reason it is often chosen by high-class men for their clothing. It has a melange appearance and gives a great feeling of softness on the skin. If you are planning to make an important purchase, the advice is to go for a safe option with a nice flannel suit, you will love it and it will give you style and elegance.