If it’s possible to make co-ords a personality trait then I feel like I have absolutely done that. If there’s one thing I’m going to do, it’s see if I can hunt down a good matching set.
You’ll always hear that dresses are the ultimate “lazy girl uniform,” but I think it’s the co-ord, and in the best possible way. For the most part they’re usually like wearing pyjamas out and about, but they’re chic, effortless, and make you look put together.
I did a deep dive to find the best new season styles. The high street has really pulled out all the stops lately when it comes to a co-ord: the prints, textures and fabrics have definitely been taken up a level.
For me, a co-ord isn’t a suit – so I’ve deliberately left out any blazer and shorts sets or blazer and skirt sets. Although those do match I just feel very strongly that they are different, OK? OK. As long as we’re on the same page.
Co-ord sets on the high street tend to feature trousers or shorts with an elasticated waistband which is exactly what we all need, in my opinion. Especially as someone who is a size 16-18 and often has to size up in trousers – the elastic waistband is mainly what I’m after. All of that roominess and comfort, you simply can’t go wrong!
August is a bit of a strange time for shopping, I find. We’re right in that transition period where it’s still sale season and boiling outside, but we’re starting to see some really exciting new-in bits for (dare I say it?) autumn/winter – so stick around to the end because I found a stunning set that you’re going to put on the top of your wishlist for the cooler months.
Mango
The first set I found was in Mango. I feel like Mango is pretty widely slept on, especially during sale season, but it’s one of my favourite high street shops. I found this adorable orangey-red co-ord in the sale and this is seeing me through the high temperatures this week. I loved it so much I ordered the lime green version online.
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Next up in Mango was this super chic white knit co-ord. I’m actually pretty shy when it comes to a crop top, but I think this is just phenomenal. And it’s perfect to transition into autumn where it can be layered with a structured blazer.
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COS
Then I went to COS and found a poplin short set that’s very much giving ‘short luxury break in Mykonos’. I loved the blue and white stripe and the boxy silhouette of the shirt. The fashion-forward cut of the shirt made me feel like I wouldn’t look like I was strolling out of the house in my pyjamas (not that there’s anything wrong with that, but sometimes it’s just not the vibe) so I loved that.
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Monki
If you’re looking for a fun co-ord in a bold colour or print, then Monki really is that girl. Over on Instagram, @Flex.Mami has dubbed plisse sets her new uniform, and I can totally see why. They are so comfortable and easy to wear! Monki do these amazing pleated sets almost every season and I was so drawn to this vibrant blue.
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Massimo Dutti
And then you’ve got to save the best for last. This Massimo Dutti golden co-ord was my top find. Can I get a little commotion for this matching set? This another brand I feel is often overlooked on the high street – and I’m including myself in that. The colour is perfection: this tangerine shade is beautiful for autumn/winter, and it feels so glam. And of course, I had to look online to see if it came in any other colours, and the ocean blue is just as chic.
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Hopefully you’ve found some cute co-ords, and there are often extended sizes online with a few of the brands that I’ve shared today and I hope to dig into that a bit more in a future column – stay tuned.
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