CHAMBRAY
Chambray is a light plain-weave cotton fabric in which, as in denim, a coloured (most often blue) warp thread is combined with a white weft thread, so the cloth has a characteristic soft, 'dusted' shade. Despite an outward likeness to denim, chambray is fundamentally different: denim is woven in a twill weave (a diagonal rib), while chambray is a simple plain weave, so it is far thinner, lighter and softer. Historically chambray was the fabric of work shirts, and later became a classic of the relaxed, casual wardrobe. It is used for shirts, dresses and blouses — anything that needs lightness, comfort and a 'denim' mood without the weight of real denim. The name comes from the French town of Cambrai. Chambray is a summery, breathable alternative to denim: just as democratic, but much lighter and more delicate.
Compare “Chambray” with another term
Meaning, origins and distinction — side by side.
Distinction
Both cotton fabrics use a coloured warp and a white weft, which is why they look alike. Denim is a heavy twill with a diagonal rib — dense, hard-wearing and substantial; it is the fabric of jeans. Chambray is a plain weave of the same yarns: thinner, softer, smooth-faced and breathable, suited to shirts and summer dresses. Same colour scheme, opposite weight and purpose.
