National Flannel Day is on February 10, and we’re here to help you celebrate the day in the best way possible. Did you know that it has been more than 400 years since flannel was first created? National Flannel Day is a day dedicated to one of the most popular pieces of fabric, flannels. Many people fancy flannel clothes and they come in different shapes, sizes, and styles.
There are many stories surrounding flannel’s first appearance in society. Some suggest that the early origins of flannel can be traced back to Wales during the 16th century. During those times, the fabric was called Welsh cotton, which was strange as the material was not made from cotton but rather, from coarse woolen fabric.
It is said that during the 17th century, the term ‘Flanelle’ started being used in France. By the 19th century, towns in Wales like Hay on Wye and Llanidloes became the epicenter of flannel production. The Drapers Company of Shrewsbury undertook the job of marketing these Welsh woolens. It is said that soldiers in the Civil War may have used flannels as undershirts. Mixtures of silk and cotton in flannels became popular by the 20th century. Flannel trousers became extremely prominent, especially in games like cricket.
Flannel was seen as a symbol of ruggedness as it was mostly worn by blue-collar workers. It was also used in both World War I and World War II as undershirts and also as the lining of jackets. In the 1900s, flannels made a comeback but in a different form. It was popular amongst singers and rappers who wore cheaper flannels more ruggedly. Though the exact origins of National Flannel Day are not known, it has been celebrated worldwide, especially in the U.S. as this fabric has been a favorite amongst people of all age groups and ethnicities.
