Five Plus One is our weekly series of buyer’s guides. We pick a specific category and dig up five great options along with one that’s a little outside the norm.
Although chambray and denim are different types of fabrics they share many similar characteristics. Both are woven from two different threads, a warp and a weft, and are traditionally dyed with indigo; however, when denim is woven the weft thread goes under at least two warp threads while chambray is woven in a one-to-one ratio. These weaving methods create denim’s distinctive diagonal pattern, referred to as a twill, and chambray’s more homogeneous texture.
Chambray is typically also much lighter than denim, and as temperatures rise, we have five options for chambray pants to meet those warmer days (plus one more).
1) Save Khaki: Homework Garden Pant
Save Khaki’s Homework Garden Pants are lightweight, breathable, and sure to be your favorite pair of pants this coming spring. They are made from a lightweight cotton chambray, and the pattern features a relaxed thigh that tapers below the knee. The pants features two angular front pockets similar to those used on fatigues and has a single, square back pocket. Rather than having belt loops or waist taps, this pair features a drawstring waist that matches perfectly with the loose-fitting aesthetic.
Available for $195 from Unionmade Goods.
2) Freemans Sporting Club: Drawstring Trousers
Freemans Sporting Club’s Drawstring Trousers may not be as fitted as many pairs of pants these days, but the relaxed style works very well for lightweight fabrics like chambray. Despite the looser fit of these trousers the minimalist pockets and simplistic waistband keeps the silhouette clean while still ensuring a proper fit with elastic and a drawstring.
Available for $200 from Mr. Porter.
3) Naked & Famous: Weird Guy in Indigo Selvedge
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For those of you willing to give up denim but not willing to forgo jeans, Naked & Famous’ Weird Guy in Indigo Chambray Selvedge are perfect. The fabric used is a 5oz. Japanese chambray selvedge making these Weird Guys some of the lightest weight jeans on the market. The pattern of this pair is loose in the thigh but heavily tapered below the knee, keeping the jeans comfortable while still maintaining a small leg opening to facilitate stacking.
Available for $87 from Tate and Yoko.
4) Studio d’Artisan: 1731BIND Mr. Field Baker Pants
While most chambray fabrics are woven with differently dyed warp and weft threads, the fabric used for Studio d’Artisan’s Mr. Field Baker Pants is entirely woven from a deeply dyed indigo thread. In addition, the pattern of these pants is pretty unique. It features a very relaxed leg with fatigue pant front pockets, two back pockets (one with a buttoned flap closure), belt loops and waist tabs for a solid fit, and a white canvas waistband lining.
Available for $189 from Denimio.
5) Kaptain Sunshine: Traveler Trousers in Cotton/Silk
The fabric used for Kaptain Sunshine’s Traveler Trousers is another example of how versatile chambray can be. Not only is it dyed beige rather than the more traditional indigo, it is also made from 35% silk to make the fabric both lightweight and soft. The pattern of these trousers features an elastic waistband with an offset button closure, seam hand pockets, inset back pockets, and a very relaxed cut.
Available for $335 from No Man Walks Alone.
Plus One – Anachronorm: Easy Pants
Hickory striped pants aren’t as popular as they should be, and Anachronorm’s Easy Pants shows just how true that is. They are made with the aforementioned white/blue seersucker fabric and, as noted by their name, feature a very relaxed cut. The waistband is made with elastic and drawstring to ensure they have a solid fit, and the pants feature swooped front pockets with slightly pointed back pockets. While these aren’t the pants you’ll reach for everyday they are certainly a solid piece of loungewear.
Available for $196 from Blue Button Shop.
