Can a Chartreux be affectionate without becoming a velcro cat?

Absolutely. My Chartreux, Margot, is a perfect example. She'll curl up on my lap for an hour, then wander off to nap alone by the window. No following me room to room or demanding constant attention.

My own Chartreux, Leo, proved that yes, they can be perfectly affectionate without being glued to your side. He'd greet me at the door with a chirp, enjoy a solid 20-minute cuddle session on the sofa, then hop down and entertain himself for hours with a toy mouse or just watching birds from the window. He never demanded constant lap time or followed me into the bathroom, which I appreciated. I'd suggest you test this by observing how a specific cat responds to being ignored for a bit - if it stays chill rather than meowing at the door, you're likely in the clear.

Chartreux cats don't come with a "clingy" guarantee built into their DNA. I've seen plenty of them that enjoy a good chin scratch for five minutes, then disappear to find a sunbeam or a cardboard box to explore on their own terms. If you're worried about a shadow following you everywhere, just watch how they react to you leaving the room - a confident cat will stay put. Mine is proof that you can get purrs and headbutts without signing up for a furry appendage.

From my experience raising two Chartreux, the key is their independent streak - they choose when to be close. My boy, Jasper, will rub against my legs when I'm cooking, then vanish to the top of the cat tree for hours. The trick is not to force cuddles; let them initiate. If you respect their space, they'll offer affection on their terms, not out of neediness.