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Shop October 28, 2022

How to shop the best classic flannels for fall

WATCH: 'The Right Stuff' spotlights fall flannels

It's officially flannel season and "Good Morning America" lifestyle contributor Lori Bergamotto spoke with Margaret Frey, the Vincent V.C. Woo professor in the department of fiber science and apparel design at Cornell University, to learn what to look for when shopping for our own pieces.

"The first thing you need to do is check the brand's sustainability production and ethical production practices," Frey said. "In addition to being a good moral practice, it's also an indication of the quality of the cotton used in the production of the shirt."

Frey said to look out for the "classic" flannel pattern: a plaid design with little mini diagonals.

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"You want to see that pattern on both sides of the fabric. If it's just printed on and it's not yarn-dyed, that is a cheaper quality made by a cheaper process," she said.

"Flannel is a cotton -- typically 100% cotton fabric. So that's what you should see on the label," she added.

Frey also noted that if the flannel says hand wash cold "it will likely shrink if you throw it in the washer" and that "handle with care" could mean the fabric isn't "thick and heavy to really get that nice, cozy flannel feel."

Bergamotto found four ideal flannels for the season.

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Best overall flannel

Patagonia Organic Cotton Midweight Fjord Flannel Shirt

Price: $66.75 to $99 · From Backcountry

Flannels should last you a long, long time. To help care for them, Frey recommends washing less. And, if possible, let it air dry. 

Best value flannel

Old Navy Cropped Plaid Flannel Boyfriend Shirt

Price: $29.99 · From Old Navy

Best men's flannel

L.L.Bean Scotch Plaid Flannel Traditional Fit Shirt

Price: $59.95 · From Zappos

Trendiest flannel

BLANKNYC Flannel Shacket

Price: $98 · From Revolve