When it comes to warm weather style, chambray denim is the one pick that’s perennial. Like denim itself, this lightweight weave of cotton and white yarn originated in France. It’s since become a staple of timeless American dressing.
A Chambray denim shirt also happens to be a perfect maternity multitasker. It’s a breathable woven fabric made for temperature control. You can wear it oversized as a shirtdress for your blossoming bump, or use it as a jacket for layering. Once you meet your little one, it’s easy to wash when it comes to mealtime messes and it makes for a smart breastfeeding cover-up when you’re on the go.
Lucky for us, Amanda Thorn-George — eight-months pregnant with her first child (congrats!) — invited us into the sunny apartment she shares with her husband and was totally game to show us chambray her way. We spun her mom-to-be style with the help of a classic button-down and some accessories to keep her cool in more ways than one.
In a modern minimalist mood? Lighten up black and white looks with a breeze of blue. Little patent flats help to pop this alphabet print top.
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“I’ve been wearing leggings throughout my pregnancy, but I miss my favorite pair of jeans. This stretch denim combo does the trick (and I love that the print on the top is my first initial).”[/caption]
Denim always has a classic rock-and-roll attitude, so why not play it up and be one tough mama in easy biker booties and some silver accessory details? The booties might be a surprise choice, but they're a great alternative to flats and sandals when one can't wear high heels.
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“For the most part, I’ve avoided maternity clothes (except for the jeans). Chambray and jersey are easy to wash and wear and will work after I have the baby, too.”[/caption]
It’s a month for flowers and chambray lets florals really bloom. Here, Amanda covers up from the spring sun in a straw fedora with a charming chambray trim.
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“I’m one of a set of identical twins, so my mom would dress us up in identical outfits growing up: I would get the blue outfit and my sister would get the pink or purple one. Now I can have both!”[/caption]
Darker denim gives a sailor-inspired twist to this preppy, nautical flag graphic top. You could also work a chambray blazer with this stretch pencil skirt to take this from seaside to deskside.
[caption id="attachment_10511" align="alignnone" width="600"] “Comfortable, classic, but still feels like it has a contemporary edge. That’s me.”[/caption]
Borrow some inspiration from the boys and bring out the baby blues with a chic chambray color story. Here, Amanda pulls the palette together in a long jersey tank dress, layered necklaces, and a woven straw hat.
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“I’m having a boy. I’m so excited to meet him!”[/caption]
Of course, chambray doesn’t just come in shirts: An oversize chambray scarf is another mommy multifunctional piece we love that’s perfect for cold shoulders and baby’s burp-ups. Like the shirt, it's a versatile addition to your wardrobe that you'll use during pregnancy and beyond.
If you’re searching for a sustainable chambray denim shirt, we found a super-soft, ultra-roomy hemp and organic cotton version by Gramicci.
How do you do chambray chic? Share your maternity style tips in the comments below!
We aim to provide you with the most honest and credible information possible. This article was reviewed for accuracy by The Honest Team and its internal technical experts.
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