I expect a lot from my flannels. For me, they are more than just a snug fashion statement. I also want mine to keep up on work days. While Patagonia is no stranger to high standards, I put its womens Fjord Flannel to the test.

　　A worthwhile work flannel needs to be comfortable, help regulate body temperature, and allow for full movement without feeling restricted. I want to work without being distracted by what Im wearing.

　　During my testing in the dead of winter and spring in the Colorado Rockies, the womens Patagonia Fjord Flannel proved its mettle. It kept me warm as a layering piece during the coldest of days, held its own when the temperatures rose, and could be used as a single layer.

　　In short: The ladies Patagonia Fjord Flannel ($99) is a simple design done really well. There are no fancy extras with this midweight flannel, but if you desire a buttery-soft daily driver that can go from work to town without needing to change, this could be the ticket.

　　Read the full lineup of our favorite womens flannel shirts in The Best Womens Flannel Shirts buyers guide.

　　Patagonia Fjord Flannel

　　Specs Material Organic cotton Density Midweight Best for All-day, everyday wear Pros 2 chest patch pockets Pockets have button-flap closures Cons Cotton is not as technical as synthetic fibers Constance Mahoney CHECK PRICE AT REICHECK PRICE AT PATAGONIA

　　The buttons feel smooth under hand on the Patagonia Fjord Flannel; (photo/Constance Mahoney) Patagonia Fjord Flannel Review During the spring, I went up to Montana for 2 weeks to help my family on their potato farm. They were shipping out seed potatoes. The job entails being outside, leaning over a conveyor belt, and picking out rocks, dirt clods, and rotten potatoes. Its not glamorous, and it needs to be done despite what the weather brings.

　　The Fjord Flannel was my go-to work shirt. The weather was the standard: Cold in the mornings followed by warm afternoons. This midweight layer did a great job keeping me warm when I layered it over another shirt for the colder mornings and then kept it on as my only layer as the temps rose.

　　Being in my hometown for a limited time meant I was often meeting friends right after work. I didnt worry about needing to change, as the flannel is an easy, good-looking piece that transitions well from work to town.

　　I would just pat off the potato dust, head to the brewery, and blend in with the rest of the people wearing flannels.

　　Stitching along the seams to the hem of the Fjord Flannel is smooth, sound, and sturdy; (photo/Constance Mahoney) Sustainable Cotton Patagonia makes everything from work clothes to leisure wear and technical apparel. Quality and sustainability seamlessly connect all aspects of the brands clothing. Not many brands can consistently boast high-tier products across the board. I think a main factor in that reputation is Patagonia’s attention to detail, including what materials are used in a shirt like this one and how those are blended together. 

　　For the Fjord Flannel, the designers opted for organic cotton. Organically grown cotton cuts CO2 emissions by nearly half compared to conventionally grown cotton and saves 91% in water use. Considering how much cotton is used in clothing, that adds up!

　　For Patagonia, using organic cotton isnt a marketing ploy. The brand has been exclusively using 100% organic virgin cotton in all of its cotton products since 1996. It has been setting high standards for decades. 

　　The shirttail on the Fjord flannel is generous; (photo/Constance Mahoney) Buttery Soft, Freedom to Move Not only is this womens flannel shirt sustainably made, but it is also ridiculously friendly next-to-skin — buttery soft. The cuddly organic cotton helps make this flannel one of the coziest Ive ever had.

　　With cotton as the ingredient, the shirt isnt very technical, so keep that in mind. Id reach for something else on my highest output days. Regardless, it does hit high marks for coziness.

　　Even though the shoulders are not pleated, I still had enough range of motion to reach across the conveyor belt to snag dirt clods. When I was back home in Colorado, I was able to shovel snow from spring storms without feeling restricted.

　　A curved shirttail hem means the shirt is more tuckable, and it stayed put while I cleaned up spuds, even to the end of the day. The length rests at the hips and reaches a bit further in the front and back. Its long enough to ensure my backside is covered no matter how I twist or bend. On windy days, no drafts were blowing up my back.

　　The malleable cuffs were easy to roll up on the sleeves; (photo/Constance Mahoney) Buttons and Pockets I found that the buttons are easy to slip through the holes, and the two chest pockets have buttons for additional security, which is a plus. The chest pockets are the only pockets on the shirt. They are deep enough for my iPhone to sit in, but the top sleeve wasnt able to close. As noted before, this isnt a shirt with all the bells and whistles. It is a relatively simple design but done really well.

　　Along the lines of simplicity, the cuffs are not stiff and easily rolled up my arm when the day started to heat up. The collar is likewise malleable and doesnt stand straight when popped up. But it still offered some protection when the wind kicked up.

　　No Shrinkage Sometimes I get worried about washing cotton shirts. Ive had too many items shrink on me! I made sure to follow the guidelines on the tag: warm water and tumble dry.

　　The first time I washed the Fjord, I anxiously pulled it out of the dryer. I quickly tried it on, wondering if the buttons would still line up or if the sleeves would be shorter. (Why are the sleeves always the ones that shrink?!) My fears were relinquished as everything lined up, and nothing was shorter.

　　One change I noticed was that it was actually softer. After a season of heavy use and washing, it still hasnt shrunk and remains supple. I have noticed very slight pilling, but nothing out of the ordinary for this textile makeup. 

　　The Patagonia Fjord has two chest pockets; (photo/Constance Mahoney) Patagonia Fjord Flannel: Conclusion Tested in diverse environments, from the harsh winters of the Colorado Rockies to the demanding tasks of a Montana potato farm, the womens Patagonia Fjord Flannel proves its a quality-made, comfortable, and adaptable piece. Its fleecy touch and thoughtful design ensure snugness and convenience throughout wear, making it a reliable choice for any outdoor enthusiast.

　　I found that this flannel is a versatile piece that works well for both fashion and function. However, if youre in need of a more technical blend with all the add-ons, like more pockets and a rigid collar or cuff, this might not be the shirt for you. Or, a more traditional wool flannel might be a better match. While this one may lack some technical features found in more specialized garments, the Fjord Flannels simplicity is its strength.

　　In a world where fashion often sacrifices sustainability for style, the Patagonia Fjord Flannel offers a refreshing alternative. Its not just a shirt — its a conscious choice for those who seek comfort, functionality, and integrity in their wardrobe.

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　　Constance Mahoney CHECK PRICE AT REICHECK PRICE AT PATAGONIA