Trendspotting: Chambray, the essential fabric this season

Chambray is to men's fashion in 2011 what denim was to 2010. It's ever-present, ultra-versatile and feels light and breezy to wear. Here's a starting guide.

By Emmet Purcell

Although chambray appears similar to denim, at least at first look, it is a much lighter fabric and stems from Cambria in France. As it is a less coarse fabric, it's a lot more versatile than denim and is popping up on a variety of celebrities day in, day out - witness Jake Gyllenhaal's timeless ensemble for Source Code.

Instead of focusing purely on long sleeve shirts, we've decided to showcase the versatility of chambray by including runners, shorts, blazers and sweatshirts that feature the shirt.

As you can see below, it's an understated look that requires careful co-ordination of colours to achieve a fresh look. Let us know what you think of our picks in the comments section below or whether you'd prefer to just stick with denim.

Denim & Supply by Ralph Lauren Dextor Chambray Shirt - ASOS, €115.38

Featuring a mid weight chambray denim finish with a cut away shirt collar and button through front fastening, twin button down pockets to the chest, full length sleeves with a single button fastening to the cuff, a straight cut yoke, curved hem and a stitched brand tab.

ASOS Crew Neck Sweat With Chambray Pocket - ASOS, €33.33

Sweat shirt constructed in pure, lightweight cotton, with chambray trims. Featuring, a crew neck, with v-shaped stitch detailing, long sleeves styling, contrast elbow patches, button fastening contrast patch pocket to upper chest, with wide cut cuffs and waistband. Designed with a relaxed fit.

Selected Gifford Washed Chambray Blazer - ASOS, €160.25

Chambray blazer by Selected. Featuring a washed finish, a contrast button through fastening to the front, a v neckline, notch detailing to the lapel and a patch pocket to the chest, all in a relaxed fit and finish.

Denim Chambray Twin Pleat Tailored Shorts - Topman, €22.93

Denim chambray twin pleat tailored shorts with roll-up and side ticket pocket.

Lyle & Scott KO846 V22 Chambray Shirt - Xile Clothing, €91.72

A light chambray shirt in a subtle striped design. Other details include contrast stitching and twin chest pockets. Finished off with the signature Lyle & Scott stitched golden eagle logo to the left chest.

Converse First String CT Spec OX Purple Chambray - End Clothing, €102.06

Converse First String CT Spec OXPurple ChambrayA premium First String reworking of one of the most famous sports shoes of all time, Converse's Chuck Taylor. Originally released in 1917, this classic style is just as popular almost a century later.