Aug 24th 2022 | KEY Apparel
Nothing quite looks and feels like denim. Except maybe chambray at first glance. While both look very similar and are made of colored yarn, because of the difference in weight, material, and construction, denim and chambray have some KEY differences. Here’s a brief look at what makes them different and what type of clothing is made from each.
What is Chambray?
The main characteristics of chambray are:
- Plain weave fabric
- Woven with colored yarn in the warp and white yarn in the weft
- Alternates one thread over the other
Chambray is usually made with 100% cotton and tends to have a higher thread count. This allows it to be soft, light, and breathable. This makes for the perfect fabric for summer clothes, while staying easy to wash and keep clean. The Chambray Short Sleeve Western Shirt from KEY is a great example of durable, high-quality, chambray fabric that will give you the comfort that you need and the style you want.
What is Denim?
The main characteristics of denim are:
- Twill weave fabric
- Woven with colored yarn in the warp and white yarn in the weft
- Warp thread goes over two threads in the weft before going under one
Denim is synonymous with American workwear. A strong, cotton fabric, it’s characterized by being sturdy and a little stiff, though techniques such as acid wash can soften it. Different techniques can produce a variety of denims, such as indigo, stretch, crushed, raw, and sanforized. KEY Apparel’s Denim Bib Overalls for Women is a fine example of the tough, rugged, and comfortable qualities of denim that have made them the go-to apparel of workers for over 100 years.
Chambray vs Denim
When comparing chambray with denim, the main differences come down to weight and breathability. Chambray is lighter and more breathable, and has a distinct sheen, making it ideal for everyday wear. Denim, on the other hand, is heavier, thicker, and more rugged, making it perfect for everyday work. The difference in function can also be seen in what is usually made from these materials; chambray is often made into shirts, while denim is often made into jeans and overalls.
At KEY Apparel, we carry clothes in both chambray and denim. Visit our online store to see what we have to offer.