Posted by
Emily Rella
Monday, July 16, 2012 12:00 PM EDT

Selvedge Chambray Shirt, jcrew.com, $98
The chambray shirt has been around for a little while now, but as summer begins to step in to full swing, so does this piece of clothing. In fact, it almost becomes an essential staple for cooler nights on the beach and breezy afternoons spent shopping. Much lighter than a denim jacket, the material is much more breathable with a flexible feel that allows for as much movement as a simple cardigan or light sweatshirt. But perhaps its best quality is its versatility. You can wear it as a plain top, as a cover up, as a sweater, whichever occasion you need it for. My favorite ways to wear it are below. How do you wear your chambray shirt? Comment and let us know!
Look 1: Bathing suit cover-up

Bathing Suit: Billabong Kelle Bikini Top & Bottom in Ivory, tillys.com, $30 (Each piece); Hat: Classic Straw Fedora in Tan, urbanoutfitters.com, $24; Shoes: Classic Flip-Flops in Warm Fire Red, oldnavy.com, $4; Sunglasses: Montecito Round Sunglasses in Brown, urbanoutfitters.com, $16; Bag: Which Way To The Beach Tote, aeropostale.com, $39.50
Look 2: Tied up over a patterned maxi

Dress: Mango Floral Maxi Dress, asos.com, $71.23; Shoes: Sam Edelmen “GiGi” in Whiskey, zappos.com, $65; Bracelets: Bamboo Bangles in Resort White and Gold Metallic, lilypulitzer.com, $28 each; Ring: Lucky Brand Garden Stack Rings in Gold, piperlime.com, $28; Bag: Brompton Straw Clutch in Toffee, jcrew.com, $128
Look 3: Crisply buttoned over white jeans

Jeans: Hudson Collin Skinny Jean in White, revolveclothing.com, $165; Shoes: Manngo Wedge in Coral, stevemadden.com, $80; Hairband: Tortoise Double Headband, jcrew.com, $18; Bag: Bombay Burch Tote in Chocolate, toryburch.com, $450; Earrings: Kenneth Cole New York Urban Desert Stud Earring in Gold, piperlime.com, $24