Millennials face a lot of criticisms from older generations, but one of the ones levelled at us that we can’t disagree with is our love of convenience. From our far-too-often Deliveroo orders to booking a whole summer holiday without leaving the couch, we’re all about minimum input with maximum output, and that extends to our wardrobes too. That’s probably why co-ords – the quickest and easiest way to look stylish – are having a major moment, and why they aren’t going anywhere.
It’s not surprising – a matching set is a failsafe option to ensure your outfit looks considered and put together. And then there is the fact that you can really get maximum cost per wear out of the best co-ord matching outfits; style them with different shoes and accessories for different occasions or wear the pieces separately for a completely new look. With their growing popularity, stores are now flooded with co-ords of every description, so how do you know which are really worth buying?
I’ve scoured the high street and found four of the very best co-ord matching outfits to see you through everything from wedding season looks to off-duty weekends. They’re sets that will easily mix with staples in your wardrobe like denim and classic tees and even when they’re statement looks, I can guarantee they’ll become workhorses in your wardrobe. So, scroll down for the sets you need now and where and how to wear them.
The holiday co-ord
If you’re looking for a standout holiday co-ord, the search is over. This multi-coloured crochet crop top and skirt set is seriously eye-catching and is just begging to be packed for a warm-weather escape.
Whether you’re wearing it purposefully as a beach cover-up, or as an outfit I’d recommend wearing it over a plain white bikini. But other than that, as a vacay look this set needs very little in the way of accessorising. Whether you’re planning to wear it to a beach club in Ibiza or bar hopping in Mykonos, all it needs is a pair of chunky white dad sandals, a beach bag and a pair of colourful hoops to complete your look.
The wedding co-ord
This Omnes skirt and top co-ord is going straight into my basket. Comprising of a soft midi skirt with slit and an adjustable ruched crop top in striking orange cotton, it’s one of the most versatile sets I’ve seen. Not only is it a statement set that’s perfect for navigating wedding season, it’ll work just as well on holiday in years to come.
A more modern choice than a classic wedding guest dress, the midriff baring style of this set might at first glance feel like it’s too revealing. However, with just a sliver of skin on show – which is balanced out by puff sleeves and the adjustable tie front top – it’s perfect for any upcoming nuptials you’ll be attending.
Style it with a pair of metallic sandals and sculptural earrings and finish the look with a metallic bag. Best-dressed wedding guest will have your name all over it.
The desk-to-dinner co-ord
Co-ordinated suits are all over the high street right now, but for something extra luxurious, there’s this Massimo Dutti set. Crafted in a chic mink hue in 100% linen, the darted suit trousers come with a matching one button blazer – a relaxed, summer take on the classic suit.
Cut for an oversized fit, this is one of the best co-ords for the office, especially when paired with slingback heels and pared-back jewellery like small gold hoops.
Come evening when you’re headed for dinner with your gal pals, wear the blazer open over a black crop top – the shorter length will work well with the proportions of the high-waisted trousers. Throw on some extra jewellery, like a chunky chain bracelet and leave your laptop bag at the office – a sleek crossbody bag can hold your lippie and phone – and cocktails await.
The off-duty co-ord
I think I can speak for us all when I say we can’t get enough of loungewear – so much so that even wearing our pyjamas out (the nice ones that is), is now not only acceptable, but stylish. And whilst this Arket co-ord isn’t actually PJs, it easily could be with its boxer-style shorts and oversized shirt. Plus, it’s pretty much as comfortable as anything you’d sleep in.
In other words, it’s the perfect off-duty co-ord for a weekend of running errands, meeting for a low-key brunch and mooching around your favourite shops.
For the ultimate weekend style, wear the shirt open over a plain white tank, add a pair of Birkenstocks, an oversized tote bag and sunnies and you’re all set.