Set To Go

Stress-less dressing, from left to right, a tangerine gauze combo from Michael Stars, a Zara cropped top and skirt and Toteme’s chic silk set. 

By Janet Kelly

IF I HAD searched for “matching sets” 10 years ago, chances are good I wouldn’t have come up with any. But in the past couple of years, retailers from Bloomingdale’s to Zara have devoted entire categories on their sites to these coordinated combos. Unlike the fussy ’50s, today’s crop of monochromatic tops and bottoms can make the morning ritual of deciding what to wear less stressful. Moreover, if you’re planning to travel this summer, a couple of matched sets—I’d stick to neutral colors—will expand your options while cutting down on clothing you need to pack.

Below, my picks for the best of these sets. Not convinced the look is for you? Remember, you can always wear each piece separately.

Who says matched sets are boring? Not Gucci. This sporty, pastel-pink jacket and cargo skirt from the label’s Resort Collection makes everyday look elegant, particularly when accessorized with a double strand of pearls, big sunnies and the brand’s signature black loafers.

Double down on denim. Embrace the match with this nipped-waist jacket ($590) and midi skirt ($530).

I’ve talked about the flattering proportions of cropped tops coupled with wider bottoms, and here’s a great example for a good price. The handkerchief hem midi skirt sells for $79.95; the top for $49.95. (For peace of mind, ensure the shirt length covers your midriff.)

My NYC friends tell me Reformation is for younger women. But I think this Blair two-piece looks very much like grown-up girl Chanel. It’s only still available in a couple of sizes, but there is a waiting list.

It isn’t inexpensive, but Frank & Eileen’s triple-fleece London Travel Set will keep you warm and is so spiffy you’ll probably get upgraded.

What to wear when you want to look cool in steamy weather? My radar is landing on Cos’s linen shirt and matching shorts (I’d call them bermudas because of the longer length).

Speaking about cool, eyelet fabric is made for hot times and temps. This Lilla P. eyelet V-neck top—with a detachable camisole—and coordinating maxi skirt is lined to a slit slightly above the knee, encouraging any available air to flow in.

Relaxed but sophisticated—that’s a look that this gorgeous green silk shirt and matching pant aces.

Gauze is one of my favorite fabrics for summer weather, and I love the creamsicle color on this  matching button-down and pant.

This lacy shirt and pant combo from Ba&Sh is selling out quickly. If you miss the boat, Johnny Was offers a similar pairing.

Despite its popularity this summer, I don’t think of red as a summery color. I do like the coupling of the puff-sleeve cropped shirt and full midi skirt (note the pockets!), which is also available in black and in white. For more matched sets, check out the category on Zara.

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