October is officially here, which means it's time to swap your linen t-shirts and lightweight chinos for chunky knits and denim. If you're not quite ready to switch out your summer wardrobe essentials for fall ones, allow us to change your mind with a science-backed list of the coolest plaid shirts of the season. There's a reason that printed button-downs continue to reign supreme as a fall-favorite style—they're cozy like your favorite winter PJs, but still give off the impression that you can, indeed, look pulled together. You can also wear them with everything from jeans to track pants, and they even double as lightweight jackets when the temps cool off a bit. Case in point: plaid shirts are crazy versatile, and now's the perfect time to stock up for the fall season. You're bound to find a million different versions of the trusty staple, which is why we turned to the help of our tried-and-true algorithm to round up the 10 best styles for you. From extra-warm wool versions to fan-favorite flannels and poplins under $20, keep scrolling to shop the shirt styles you'll wear on repeat all season long. Opening image: jcrew.com
Did you like our 10 Best Men's Plaid Button-Down Shirts? Check out our 10 Best Men’s Casual Blazers and Sports Coats for more top-ranked finds!
October 1, 2019
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Gap Flannel Work Shirt
BEST FOR: This mid-weight shirt is ideal for layering over t-shirts and wearing solo.
HELPFUL TIP: Love the weight and feel of this shirt? This shirt is offered in 10 different colors and plaids, so it's completely acceptable to pick up more than one.
J.Crew Slim Brushed Twill Shirt
WHY YOU NEED IT: This slim cut makes this shirt look like it's been expertly tailored.
STYLE WITH: From jeans to chinos to casual trousers, this shirt has the ability to make any outfit look polished and pulled-together.
Uniqlo Flannel Checked Long-Sleeve Shirt
WHY YOU NEED IT: Let us introduce you to the softest plaid shirt ever made. Crafted out of 100% cotton that has been triple-brushed inside and out, this will feel like butter against your skin.
HELPFUL TIP: If you're worried the cut will be too restricting, don't be. The arms have been designed to provide easy movement.
Filson Mackinaw Plaid Wool Flannel Shirt Jacket
BEST FOR: This wool pick can easily serve as both a shirt or lightweight jacket. That's a win-win in our book.
ABOUT THE BRAND: Filson is a company known for its high quality and durable recreational products. When you buy anything made by Filson, you can be sure it will withstand the test of time.
Columbia Rapid Rivers II Long Sleeve Shirt
WHY YOU NEED IT: It doesn't get much more classic than this lightweight fan-favorite shirt from Columbia.
BEST FOR: The timeless design and plaid prints make this ideal for everyday wear.
Amazon Essentials Regular-Fit Long-Sleeve Plaid Casual Poplin Shirt
WHY YOU NEED IT: This Amazon Essentials shirt has over 400 reviews and is under $20. Add this to your cart now and get it in two days.
USERS SAID: "There is nothing to complain about with this shirt. Size was just as I expected. I’m 6’2” 260lbs and the XXL fit just right. The shirttail is long enough so that it does not pull out even when reaching up. I’ll be buying more."
Patagonia Regular Fit Organic Cotton Flannel Shirt
BEST FOR: If you're an outdoorsy guy, this pick is for you. This shirt looks just as good in the city as it does on the ranch.
FUN FACT: We love that this shirt is made from 100% organic cotton.
Goodthreads Slim-Fit Long-Sleeve Plaid Poplin Shirt
WHY YOU NEED IT: Goodthreads utilizes a unique Heritage Wash to give this shirt a more relaxed and live-in feel.
BEST FOR: From workdays to weekends, this will be your new go-to shirt anytime you're in need of something that's comfortable but still looks nice.
L.L.Bean Chamois Shirt
WHY YOU NEED IT: Double-stitched seams and unbreakable buttons make this plaid shirt exceptionally well-made.
FUN FACT: All of L.L.Bean's plaids are designed in their Freeport, Maine, studio.
L.L.Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Shirt
WHY YOU NEED IT: This 100% cotton flannel shirt is woven and expertly brushed in Portugal.
FUN FACT: Each color featured in L.L.Bean's Scotch Plaid Flannel Shirt is carefully matched to the historical tartans in the Scottish registry.
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