EOF: Blue Chambray Shirt

Shala Monroque rockin' the blues

I'd like to propose a new planet in the fashion universe: Equal Opportunity Fashion. EOF also stands for Equal Opportunity Flatterer. To become an EOF you must work for women of all ages, bodies and tastes. With tweaking perhaps but the basics must be there.

Hello, sailor...

What qualifies? Off the top of my head: pearl studs, black tights, denim jacket... Today's nominee? the blue chambray work shirt. It's been around a while— since the latter part of the 19th century as worn by farmers, factory workers and others in manual labor trades (thus the term "blue collar"). WWII- era sailors wore 'em with aplomb. And this year, it seems, women everywhere are wearing them— and looking good.

The J. Crew party look

Because the blue chambray shirt is not native to her wardrobe, a girl wearing it has consciously decided to go tomboy, which is already— let's face it— a little sexy. The idea is you've raided your guy's closet for a shirt in the morning as all your clothes are strewn about the house. The nature of chambray (or cambric as it used to be called) is going to be a little rumpled and worn-in.

If diamonds are a girl's best friend, 
chambray is her best boyfriend

It's relaxed structured dressing that knows no bounds in its ability to be customized. As a casual piece it's way more dressed than a t-shirt. Over a bathing suit it's more acceptable than a robe. As a third piece to finish a look it's less serious than a jacket. It keeps the pants or skirt from trying too hard. Paired with a party skirt it's an immediate fun evening. Unlike a wardrobe of jeans you probably need just one.

One shirt = many looks

Tomorrow is Halloween. 

If you're too old for a costume... 

Why don't you... chambray your own special way?*

*with thanks to Diana Vreeland of course