9 best matching sets to buy this summer
As comfortable as pyjamas but as fashionable as your best dress, the matching sets trend is one we have been wearing on repeat for months.
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There are few outfit formulas that result in both immense comfort, ease and undeniable style.
Thankfully, the matching set – a head-to-toe, throw-on-and-go outfit – manages to nail this rare balance.
Perhaps this explains why the popularity of the matching set has skyrocketed in recent years, earning a level of ubiquitousness we haven’t seen since “mom jeans” took over the denim space.
Nicole Adolphe, THE ICONIC’S Head Of Style, says “matching sets are an easy way to elevate an outfit to feel more co-ordinated and intentional.”
“Wearing a set will always look and feel more put together, while still remaining more casual than a dress.”
Jules Sebastian recently posted on Instagram wearing this stunning set from Showpo. The easy outfit formula is clearly a fave for Jules having posted similar fits many times before. Donning the Laila top and pants, fans commented calling the outfit “gorgeous” and that it looks “so comfy.” The relaxed wide leg pants paired with the uber chic top are sure to be one of the fits of the summer.
From short and pant sets to casual beach options to elegant sets for a long lunch, a matching set is truly a game changer when it comes to effortless fashion.
So take a scroll below of our pick of the very best matching sets to keep you cool all summer long.
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OUR TOP PICKS
In this article
- Why have matching sets taken off recently?
- What is the easiest way to wear a matching set?
- On what occasions can you wear a matching set?
- What materials are the best for matching sets?
- How can people make their outfits seem fresh each time they wear the same set?
BEST SHORT SETS
Cora Crochet Knit Shirt, $49.99 at Cotton On
Cora Crochet Knit Short, $34.99 at Cotton On
What You Should Know:
How cute is this brown knitted set from Cotton On? Made from 20 per cent recycled cotton, the shirt has that sought-after relaxed fit while the shorts feature a super comfy elastic waistband. Ideal for the beach and for that midmorning coffee run.
Reiss Women’s Alma-Crop Co-Ord Linen Top – Yellow, $79 (down from $160) at OZSALE
Reiss Women’s Albe Linen Button Shorts – Yellow, $52 (down from $210) at OZSALE
What You Should Know:
Bring some sunshine into your life this summer with this cute yellow set from Reiss. Crafted from 100 per cent linen, this set screams warm weather dressing. The shorts are cut in a high waist silhouette which we know everyone appreciates and also feature a pleated front. The button detailing mirrored in both the shorts and top also help to add that little bit of something extra. Wear out for a cafe brunch with friends or a casual afternoon drink.
Dazie Second To Midnight Sequin Crop Top, $59.99 at THE ICONIC
Dazie Second To Midnight Sequin Mini Skirt, $69.99 at THE ICONIC
What You Should Know:
As the great Taylor Swift once said, “I can still make the whole place shimmer.” Never has this been more true thanks to the latest fashion runways (and Taylor Swift’s song ‘Bejewelled’). So if you’ve been on the fence about this trend then now is the time to dive right in. This set screams New Year’s Eve and will have you dancing, and dazzling, the night away. Plus, it’s also perfect if you haven’t yet figured out your The Era’s Tour outfit yet.
Avril Two Piece Set – Black, $109 at Petal + Pup
What You Should Know:
Simple yet sophisticated. What more could you want? This sweet set from Petal + Pup comes in at the bust before loosely flowing over creating a super flattering cut. Combined with the square neckline and tie at the back and you honestly can’t go wrong. The elasticised waistband on the shorts is just the cherry on top.
BEST LONG SETS
What You Should Know:
This bold yet relaxed set is the perfect all-occasion fit. Whether you throw it on to duck down to the shops, meet friends for coffee or for a summer date night, it will not let you down. Crafted from a comfortable, lightweight polyester, both the top and pants are made in a relaxed fit to truly help you feel comfortable all day and night. Like any set, we also love that you can wear both items separately giving you endless outfit options.
Aere Linen Halter Vest, $120 at THE ICONIC
Aere Summer Linen Maxi Skirt, $120 at THE ICONIC
What You Should Know:
If you want an easy outfit but still want look like you’ve put in a solid amount of effort, this outfit is going to be right up your alley. This set is oh so chic, I can’t get enough of it. Made from 100 per cent linen, this set is very sleek and oozes put-togetherness (despite requiring minimal effort).
Seed Linen Linen Retro Top in Beige, $99.95 at Myer
Seed Linen Linen Retro Skirt in Beige, $129.95 at Myer
What You Should Know:
Featuring a statement geometric pattern and a standout colour of the season, brown, there’s no secret why this set is in our top picks. Crafted from premium French linen, this easy-to-wear style is all casual elegance. We love the gathered shirt for that sense of fun and a touch of retro too.
BEST DESIGNER SETS
Resort Short Set, $230 at Emma Mulholland On Holiday
What You Should Know:
The print, the colour, the cut, we just can’t get enough of this fun matching set. If summer was an outfit, this would be it. Made from 100 per cent linen, it is also super lightweight so you can stay cool and look cool at the same time.
Deiji Studios + NET SUSTAIN The 03 washed-linen shirt and shorts set, $316.74 at Net-a-Porter
This has been one of the most popular sets on the market in recent years. It’s hard to go anywhere in summer without seeing someone in one of these fits. The ultra soft French linen material is perfect for the beach or lounging around. Available in a range of colours, we love the stone-washed tone for its easy, chill vibe. True “dressing for the job you want” energy.
WHY HAVE MATCHING SETS TAKEN OFF RECENTLY?
“Matching sets have grown in popularity from the y2k and low-rise styles becoming highly sought after, leading to a focus on the midsection this season, as opposed to the cutaways of last season,” says Adolphe.
She says it is “reflected in both women’s and men’s fashion trends, for example, a top and skirt combo, or a linen shirt and shorts combo. Whichever style you pull off, matching sets are clearly the new ‘suit’ for the summer season ahead.”
WHAT IS THE EASIEST WAY TO WEAR A MATCHING SET?
Adolphe says a shirt and short combo is definitely the easiest way. “Relaxed linen sets are a no-brainer here, ideal for throwing on with a pair of sandals, slides or sneakers, which make for a perfect weekend fit.”
If the occasion calls for something a bit extra, ”a slightly dressier way of wearing a matching set that is still simple and easy to wear, is a top and skirt combo,” says Adolphe. “Pair this with heels, earrings and a handbag for a polished look.”
Or if you want to go all out Adolphe says “you can take matching to the next level with a 3-piece set, incorporating a bustier or corset style top to accompany the matching jacket and pants.”
ON WHAT OCCASIONS CAN YOU WEAR A MATCHING SET?
Matching sets can be worn on any occasion thanks to the different materials and styles on offer. “It’s all about which set you pick, how you wear them, and how you choose to style them,” says Adolphe. She says you can dress up or dress down an outfit by adding sneakers and a tote for an everyday look or by adding heels and some jewellery for a more formal occasion.
WHAT MATERIALS ARE THE BEST FOR MATCHING SETS?
The material of a matching set can really determine the overall mood of your outfit according to Adolphe. She says that a “linen set works well for that free and easy look, while knitted sets are best for daytime events such as work, and silk sets are perfect for dressier dinners and formal occasions.”
HOW CAN PEOPLE MAKE THEIR OUTFITS SEEM FRESH EACH TIME THEY WEAR THE SAME SET?
This can be “tricky” says Adolphe especially if the set has a distinctive print.
Adolphe suggests changing the look of the set with accessories and shoes, such as wearing sandals one day, heels the next, and sneakers thereafter.
She also says that it depends on the type of set too. “If a shirt is part of the set, you can have this closed on the first wear, then unbuttoned with a neutral-coloured camisole underneath on the second wear.”
Adolphe also recommends wearing the pieces with a different top or bottom. “You can really get creative here, with the idea being to split up the set, achieving better cost per wear.”
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