shirt over a dress

HOW TO STYLE A CHAMBRAY SHIRT

Chambray shirts are truly the definition of versatility, aren’t they? They’re perfect for dressing up or down, and you can wear them in so many ways depending on the occasion. You can pair a button-down chambray shirt with tailored slacks and heels for a polished office look, or throw it over a bikini with denim shorts for a laid-back beach vibe. It’s like getting two shirts in one! Plus, you can easily layer them, tie them at the waist, or even tuck them into a skirt for a different look every time. A chambray shirt is definitely a wardrobe hero!

Chambray Shirt Outfit Ideas

WHITE JEANS CHAMBRAY SHIRT OUTFIT

You can never go wrong with the timeless combo of white jeans and a chambray shirt! It’s such an effortlessly chic look that works for almost any occasion. The white jeans give it a fresh, clean vibe, while the chambray shirt keeps things casual yet polished. I totally agree—adding a pop of color with a pink Longchamp bag takes it to the next level, but a neutral brown bag is just as versatile and sophisticated for a more understated style. It’s one of those outfits you can wear to work or for a weekend outing and still look put-together. Definitely a wardrobe go-to!

SHORT SLEEVE CHAMBRAY SHIRT

That’s such a win! Finding the perfect short-sleeve chambray shirt after two years of searching is definitely worth the wait, especially when it’s soft, comfy, and affordable. Sounds like it was a great find, and sizing down is always good advice for those who want a more fitted look. And those jeans under $20? Major steal! It’s awesome when you find a pair that fits true to size and is cute too—nothing beats an affordable, flattering outfit like that!

Khaki Pants with Chambray Shirt Work Outfit

Absolutely! A chambray shirt and khaki pants are such a classic combo, perfect for a polished yet relaxed work look. The neutral tones of khaki pair beautifully with the soft blue of chambray, making it a timeless outfit that’s always in style. And you’re so right—since chambray is so versatile, you can swap it for other colors or fabrics and still achieve that effortlessly chic vibe. Whether you go for a light chambray or try a different shade, it’s an easy, stylish option that works in so many settings!

Chambray Shirt With Black Skirt Outfit

I totally get that! The “Canadian Tuxedo” look can be a bit much for some, but your compromise is genius. Pairing a chambray shirt with a black denim skirt strikes the perfect balance of denim on denim without being too matchy-matchy. The black denim adds a sleek edge, and the chambray keeps it casual and fresh. It’s a great way to embrace the trend in a more subtle way! And for a more polished, conservative twist, swapping the denim skirt for a pencil skirt is a fantastic idea—still stylish but definitely office-friendly. This is such a clever take on the denim trend!

With Linen Shorts

Linen shorts are the perfect summer staple—light, breathable, and so comfy! It sounds like you’ve really found your go-to pair with the Amazon Essentials ones; I love how versatile they are, especially when you have them in multiple colors. And it’s awesome that Walmart has a similar option for even more variety. Linen shorts work great as a beach outfit too, and tossing them over a swimsuit is such an easy and chic way to go from beach to boardwalk. I’m sure your blog post on styling them has tons of great tips for mixing and matching—such a smart way to get the most out of a summer essential!

Open With Stripe Tee and Linen Pants

That sounds like such a laid-back yet elevated look! Linen pants paired with a basic tee are already a winning combo, but adding a striped tee underneath and throwing a chambray shirt over it as a light jacket takes it to the next level. The stripes add a fun pop of pattern without overpowering the simplicity of the linen, and the chambray shirt gives the outfit that effortless, cool vibe. It’s perfect for a stylish day out or even a casual work look. You get that easy, breezy feel while still looking put-together!

Chambray Shirt with Black Jeggings Outfit

Jeggings are such a wardrobe game-changer, and I love that you’ve found a knit pair that works for both more formal settings like church and casual work environments! The fact that they’re not made of denim gives them such a versatile, polished feel while still being comfy. Your blog post with outfit ideas sounds like a must-read! The way you can dress them up with flats or heels for a more sophisticated look, or go casual with sneakers for errands, makes them such a go-to piece for every occasion. It’s the perfect balance of chic and comfort—definitely a style win!

Chambray Shirt with Olive Jeans Outfit

Olive jeans are definitely trending right now, and I love how you’ve put a unique spin on them by pairing them with cowboy boots! The mix of olive with the rugged vibe of cowboy boots adds such a cool, unexpected twist to a preppy staple. It’s an awesome way to make a classic look feel fresh and current. And black cowboy boots are such a versatile choice—they pair well with everything and, if they’re comfortable too, that’s even better! It’s the perfect combo of trendy and laid-back style. You’ve definitely nailed it!

Chambray Shirt With Vest Outfit

A puffer vest is such a perfect piece for those in-between chilly days! I love that you’ve found some great options on Amazon—puffer vests are not only super cozy but also add a bit of extra style to your outfit. Layering one over a chambray shirt is such a cute look—chambray adds a nice casual touch, while the puffer vest keeps things warm and practical. It’s the ideal combo for staying comfortable and stylish when the weather’s not quite cold enough for a full jacket. Plus, the versatility of puffer vests makes them a go-to for layering!

Chambray Shirt With a Maxi Dress Outfit

That’s such a stylish way to wear a chambray shirt! Tying it at the waist over a maxi dress is a great alternative to the classic denim jacket—it adds a bit of structure while still keeping the outfit light and breezy. The relaxed vibe of the chambray shirt contrasts beautifully with the flowiness of the maxi dress, and the tied waist gives it a fun, laid-back look. It’s perfect for transitioning between seasons too, as it adds just the right amount of warmth without being too heavy. Such a cute and effortless combo!

conclusion

In conclusion, the chambray shirt is an incredibly versatile wardrobe staple that can be styled in countless ways for every occasion. Whether layered over a maxi dress, paired with khaki pants for work, or tied at the waist over a swimsuit, it adds a laid-back yet polished touch to any outfit. From casual weekends to more polished work environments, the chambray shirt seamlessly blends comfort and style, making it a must-have for any wardrobe. The key is finding the right balance, whether it’s mixing it with denim, adding a fun accessory like a colorful bag, or layering it in creative ways to keep your outfits fresh and fashionable.

7 ESSENTIAL STYLE TIPS FOR MEN OVER 50 BEFORE YOU SHOP

Navigating the world of fashion in your 50s (and beyond!) may seem daunting, but trust me, it’s entirely achievable. While I can’t personally guide every man receiving an AARP membership in the mail, I can offer you this comprehensive guide to dressing for mature men.

If you’re new to my writing, you might be asking yourself: Caroline, as a 29-year-old woman who spends her free time watching Nordic crime dramas and perfecting my homemade macaroni and cheese, what do I know about the style dilemmas faced by men approaching early retirement?

Well, for one, I have a soft spot for well-dressed older gentlemen.

Every man over 50 has unique wardrobe needs that reflect his personal style and lifestyle. Whether you’re searching for casual attire, looking for shopping recommendations, or simply wanting to elevate your fashion game, dressing well at this age can be just as exciting and diverse as it is for younger men.

Not sure where to begin? No need to fret! Below, 7 tips on nailing mature style for men:

Get a tailor

Everyone I’ve spoken with in the realm of men’s style, especially for those over 50, agrees on one crucial point: the difference between “a guy wearing clothes” and “a well-dressed man” often comes down to good tailoring.

Building a relationship with a tailor is essential for any mature man looking to elevate his style.

Consider your tailor your clothing’s doctor. Just as you have a dentist for your teeth, an internist for your health, and a dermatologist for those pesky moles, it’s time to have a tailor on speed dial to ensure your wardrobe is in top shape.

Now, I can already hear you thinking: “The clothes I own fit me just fine!”

But let’s be real—no man, and I mean none of you, can wear off-the-rack clothing perfectly.

Sure, you don’t need to have every t-shirt tailored or sweatpants hemmed, but those button-down shirts you wear daily with jeans or chinos? Get the sleeves adjusted to the right length.

And don’t forget about those jeans and chinos! 

What about the blazer you wear for dinner with your spouse each week? Could it use a little adjustment to fit you better?

Think of this process like visiting a doctor. You don’t go in every day for every little issue, but for the significant matters, you want to consult a professional. 

Focus on the finishing touches 

When it comes to presentation, the key differentiator between well-dressed men and those who simply wear clothes is the extra attention to detail. These subtle touches may not be immediately noticeable, but once you see them, they make a significant difference.

This attention to detail extends beyond your clothing to grooming, including a well-maintained beard (and nose hairs!), clean nails and cuticles, and a pleasant scent. Just look at the smart tie and coordinating socks worn by Stanley Tucci—voted the most stylish man of 2023 by Style Girlfriend followers!

Accessories are an excellent way to elevate your style as a man over 50. A beautiful scarf can enhance a simple blue overcoat, while the right shoes can complete your outfit—just as easily as the wrong ones can ruin it.

Investing in accessories is a smart choice for your wardrobe. Timeless pieces, like a classic pair of glasses, will never go out of style, and if you choose quality items built to last, you’ll enjoy them for years to come.

I’d like to highlight timepieces: they’re one of the first things I notice on a man. If you wear a watch, I can’t help but notice which one it is.

Let me be clear: you don’t need to spend a fortune on a watch. However, if you can invest in a quality timepiece, it’s often worth it. Even an affordable tank-style Seiko can make you look polished and distinguished.

Invest in forever pieces

By avoiding fleeting trends, you can invest more wisely in your wardrobe. Why? Because when you focus on timeless pieces, you know you’ll wear them for more than just one season.

Instead of purchasing multiple inexpensive shirts and trousers, consider buying one or two high-quality staple items. Then, invest in having those pieces tailored to fit you perfectly. The final step? Embrace the ease and simplicity of cultivating a signature personal style!

Look for brands that prioritize craftsmanship and quality. 

While you may not have the budget to splurge on every item in your closet, you can be strategic about your spending.

Identify the pieces you wear most frequently. If you rarely wear sweaters but often don blazers—think of a post-presidential Barack Obama—prioritize your budget accordingly to reflect your lifestyle.

Lean into a Monochromatic Color Palette

Monochromatic dressing involves combining pieces from the same color family to create a cohesive and polished look. This style not only elongates your body but also gives you a sleek, modern appearance with minimal effort.

Take, for example, the character Steve Martin, 79, plays on Only Murders in the Building. He often sports monochromatic ensembles, like blue jeans paired with a white shirt and a blue knit sweater or overcoat.

For men over 50, these outfits are not only simple to assemble but also effortlessly elevate your style.

You can approach monochromatic dressing in a few different ways. Our favorite at Team SG is the black and blue route—opting for rich, deep blues like navy—or embracing earth tones, such as pairing tan chinos with a chunky oatmeal rollneck sweater.

Aim for leveling up your personal style instead of chasing trends

Here’s a little secret: I often share this advice with my younger clients, but it’s especially true for older gentlemen—dressing for who you are, rather than trying to keep up with the latest trends, makes all the difference.

By midlife, you’ve witnessed countless trends come and go, which makes it easier to identify which cuts and styles flatter you and which colors and textures enhance your personal aesthetic.

Consider what clothing aligns with your lifestyle and which pieces don’t quite fit who you are. 

Think of this guideline not as a limitation, but as a permission slip to bypass fleeting trends. That’s a true luxury! As men age, they naturally become more distinguished—there’s a reason the term “silver fox” is a compliment.

Allyson B. Fanger, the costume designer for Netflix’s (criminally underrated, in my opinion) *Grace and Frankie*, shared that one of the joys of dressing older characters like Robert and Sol—played by Martin Sheen and Sam Waterston, both in their eighties—is that these men have lived rich lives.

The show features two lawyers who leave their wives for each other after their kids have grown up, and their style is spot on.

Robert and Sol don’t need to evolve further in their fashion choices, which makes dressing them all the more enjoyable for Fanger.

They each have favorite brands, signature color palettes, and distinct approaches to style.

Robert is traditional, favoring button-down shirts and chinos—he’s a Brooks Brothers man through and through.

Sol, on the other hand, embodies the spirit of a hippie, opting for Cubavera camp shirts and comfortable Tommy Bahama linen pants.

These characters exemplify how, regardless of personal taste or style, it’s entirely possible to achieve top-notch personal fashion at any age.

Ultimately, knowing who you are and being confident in that is the cornerstone of any man’s style, and that understanding becomes more profound as you accumulate life experience.

Adopt a wardrobe uniform

Larry David, at 76, is a big advocate for uniform dressing. While many people think of a daily uniform as a traditional suit and tie, David exemplifies how versatile and liberating this approach can be.

He’s a king of casual style—if you’re searching for casual clothing ideas for men over 50, the *Curb Your Enthusiasm* star offers an excellent blueprint.

His go-to wardrobe staples include crewneck sweaters, zip-ups, AG 5-pocket chinos, and soft shoulder blazers. 

If the thought of choosing an outfit every day feels overwhelming, this dressing strategy might be perfect for you. 

Consider building a capsule wardrobe filled with a few pieces you love: your favorite pants, a handful of shirts that make you feel your best, and some knitwear or jackets.

And don’t hesitate to buy items you adore in multiple colors! (This is another trick David uses.)

This way, each morning, you can reach into your closet and confidently know that whatever you pick will likely coordinate beautifully.

Be yourself 

It might sound a bit silly to wrap up a list of style tips with a reminder to just accept yourself, but hear me out. You might think, “My style is just a ripped sports jersey and Crocs,” and to that, I say: maybe it’s time for a change! (Just kidding… or am I?)

What I really mean is don’t overthink dressing for a particular age. These style tips are helpful if you’re unsure where to start or want to elevate your look. But if you already have a signature style or enjoy dressing outside the norm, don’t let the number in front of your age hold you back. Embrace what makes you unique and wear it with confidence!

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, navigating style in your 50s and beyond doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Embrace the principles of good tailoring, invest in timeless pieces, and build a wardrobe that reflects who you are. Remember, personal style is all about confidence and authenticity—wear what makes you feel good, whether it’s a classic blazer or a funky shirt.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with accessories and details that can elevate your look. And most importantly, don’t let age define your fashion choices. Celebrate your individuality and express yourself through your clothing. After all, style is a lifelong journey, and it’s never too late to redefine your aesthetic!