Do you have a chambray shirt in your closet and curious how to style it? Allow me to assist with some inspiration. In this post, I’ll share three ideas for wearing a chambray shirt. I’ll be honest, it was hard to contain myself to just three so if you have any questions or would like to know more options, post in the comments or send me a note!
I’m wearing the Everyday Chambray Shirt from J.Crew in Madera Wash. You’ll find various shades of this classic shirt depending on the brand or store where you purchase it. I will say that I am a big fan of keeping this versatile gem in your closet available for wear all year long. Let’s begin!
Look #1 – Casual White Jeans
Simple and crisp while remaining comfortable! Pair your shirt with white jeans and flats for a casual pulled together look. I am 100% on team wear white jeans all year long, they are so versatile just like this shirt, it just feels natural to pair them together.
In need of white jeans? There are a lot of great choices, but for some reason it can be challenging to find a pair that isn’t a little too see through, am I right?! I pulled a few options below for you to ponder if you are in need:
J.Crew Toothpick (Regular or Petite)
7 For All Mankind
Vince Camuto
LOFT (Regular or Petite)
Have you tried the half tuck of a button down shirt? Try it on, it’s a current trend that is completely free and likely an option you can try with any button down shirt already in your closet! Let me know how you like the look for you! Start by leaving the bottom one or two buttons undone on the shirt and then tuck half of the shirt into the pants or jeans that corresponds to the side of shirt where the buttons are sewn (not the button hole side) so it rests fluidly. Only the front of the shirt needs to be tucked in to complete the look, you can opt to leave the sides and back out as well as the other half of the front. It is also an option to untuck the entire shirt or tuck the whole shirt in with a belt if that feels more like you. Endless options, this is just one of many!
Look #2 – Business Casual
If your business setting permits chambray shirts in the dress code then go for it! Chambray does not have to be only for weekends and casual days.
For this look, I paired the shirt with a J.Crew faux leather pleated skirt that has been in my closet for a few years and I am happy to report that J.Crew continues to stock and sell this item. J.Crew Factory also continues to offer this Multistrand Pearl Necklace. I also chose a kitten heel black suede pump that appears matte so as not to compete with the shininess of the skirt as well as a low heel height due to the skirt length. In winter, you could also pair this with black tights and black suede booties.
Don’t like pearls? That’s okay, try a chunky necklace of any kind that feels like you.
In addition to the black skirt I am wearing, you could easily substitute black pants like these for another business casual look as well as a floral, striped, or color blocked skirt. Just add flats or heels and you’re ready to go!
Look #3 – Smart Casual
Denim and chambray together you ask? Yes, 100% yes! Mix and match the denim and shades of blue to create a monochromatic look. Choose the light chambray shirt with a darker wash jean or vice versa (the same can be applied with a jean jacket paired with jeans, different shades of blue will give it a modern pulled together look).
In this outfit, I included a navy schoolboy blazer from J.Crew – similar from J.Crew Factory here as well as a gold tiered necklace (similar here) and neutral espadrille wedges (mine are from Target a few years back but these are the beauties Kate Middleton wears from Viscata that are very similar or this pair of espadrille wedges from J.Crew Factory). You could wear flats, sneakers, or even booties in the cooler months to mix it up. Running from casual Friday in the office to a kids soccer game or other field event? You are ready to go from one part of your day to the next. Shoes with a flat sole (versus a heel) will allow you comfort while standing as well as keep you from sinking into a grass field.
What are your favorite way to pair a chambray shirt? What new outfits are you inspired to try?
