Chambray, often mistaken for denim, is a lightweight fabric that bridges the gap between casual and refined. This versatile material offers the familiar look of denim with the comfort needed for warmer months.
In this chambray fabric guide we discuss what it is, the differences between chambray and denim, why you’ll want to wear it, the downsides of chambray and how to wear this dress casual fabric.
Let’s dive in.
Chambray is an All-American staple that belongs in every man’s summer wardrobe. It not only gets the style points, but can also help to keep you cool from springtime throughout the dog days of summer.
What is Chambray Fabric?
Chambray is a cotton plain-weave fabric made with a dyed warp yarn and white filling yarn. It’s most distinguishable when the weave is looser which makes for a great casual shirt. And the tighter the weave, the more refined the chambray shirt will appear.
As mentioned above, chambray is a plain weave fabric that’s woven with both colored yarn (in the warp) and white yarn (in the weft) that creates its unique look. It is a traditionally light blue color, but can be found in an array of fashionable colors.
Chambray vs Denim
Chambray is a similar fabric to denim, but not nearly as well known. It has a similar aesthetic to denim too, but is often more lightweight, thus making it an ideal summer fabric.
Also similar to denim, you can find chambray in both lightweight and heavier weights. It’s often mistaken for denim because of the similar weave (blue warp and white weft woven together), but chambray is lightweight and airy as opposed to denim’s stiff and sturdy nature.
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Why Wear Chambray?
Here are a handful of reasons why chambray clothing makes for an excellent choice.
1. Chambray is Soft
While your garment may be a bit rough to start, chambray is inherently a soft and breathable fabric because it’s mostly made with short-staple cotton, though you’ll find it made with long-staple cotton too. Long fibers give fabrics a softer and stronger nature.
2. Chambray is a Summer Fabric
Chambray is certainly summer friendly. The cotton in chambray fabric will help to keep you cool in heat and humidity. With a finer weave due to a higher thread count, chambray is a breathable fabric that’s comfortable on those hotter days.
3. Chambray Has Moisture-Wicking Capability
If you’re someone who’s prone to perspiration, then chambray is a fabric you can wear without worry in the hot summer months. Of course it’s always a good idea to wear a lightweight undershirt for additional sweat protection.
5. Chambray is Versatile
And of course like denim, chambray is versatile, lending itself to being dressed up or down. You can easily wear chambray button up shirts tucked in for a dressier look or untucked for a more casual cool vibe.
Downsides of Wearing Chambray
Chambray isn’t always the most comfortable fabric, especially when you are still breaking it in. It’s a rougher texture similar to linen, but will soften with time.
1. Not the Most Durable
While generally chambray is a pretty durable fabric, it’s more prone to wear and tear than cotton or its denim counterpart. It’s not surprising that rips can occur through regular wear over time and many wash cycles.
We wouldn’t recommend to dry chambray on high heat as this could cause harm and shorten the life of your garment.
2. Chambray Wrinkles Easily
Like linen fabric, chambray does wrinkle easily, which is a part of its charm and could be a positive if that’s the style and look you’re going for with your casual clothing. You can easily release the wrinkles by pressing your chambray garments with a hot iron on the cotton setting with steam.
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How to Wear Chambray Clothing
Here’s some styling inspiration on how you can wear chambray clothing this summer.
Wrapping Up
Chambray’s ability to straddle the line between casual and dressy makes it a valuable addition to any summer wardrobe. Its durability, breathability, and classic aesthetic ensure that chambray pieces will remain in style for years to come.
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