How to Create More Outfits with Your Matching Sets this Summer
Let's mix and match.
If there’s one type of outfit I love wearing in summer when I want to feel like I’ve made an effort (when the reality is, it’s taken me a few minutes to get dressed), it’s a matching linen set. A top and a pair of trousers (usually, although I have dabbled in short and skirt sets too) in the same fabric, same colour and usually, designed so they sit very well together.
These are the kinds of outfits that you don’t need to really think about. Chosen well, you won’t need to add much but a pair of shoes, a few pieces of your favourite jewellery, and sunglasses (well, fingers crossed for sun). But they always look put together and considered, so they’re a win-win.
But sometimes, I don’t want to match. And because I like a versatile wardrobe, I’ll always look for ways to wear these sets as separates, too. So that’s what this post is dedicated to: three matching linen sets, broken up to create additional outfits, to really make the most of them this summer.
Set 1
This is a linen set I’m very much looking forward to wearing this summer. The trousers are Beyond Nine’s ‘Bobbi’, which I also have in a thick black and brown stripe — and judging by how many times I’ve worn them, this honey stripe pair will get a lot of wear too. They have a wide, loose leg, darts at the waist for shape, and an elasticated waistband for comfort. The top is very easy to wear, too. It’s sleeveless, so it works well in hot weather, and it slots neatly over the waistband of the trousers.
I don’t wear colours like this top very often, so choosing what to wear it with isn’t always instantaneous. Black, navy, white, I can do with my eyes closed. But more colourful shades? They take a beat or two longer to figure out. Whenever I feel like that, I know a neutral colour is going to be a good accompaniment. Black will almost always work, but as it’s warming up, lighter shades like these off-white trousers feel fresher. Plus, they complement the white stripes that run through the top.
[Side note, Soeur fans: there’s currently a private sale on that’s well worth checking out.]
I’ve taken a similar approach with this outfit: a white (neutral) top to sit over the honey-coloured trousers, and mirror the thin white stripes that run through them. As well as having a different colour combination from the full set, I like how this outfit has a different overall look because of the proportions (more on that here). This white vest is longer than the top above and has a looser, breezier feel, switching up the silhouette.
Set 2
This set is one that I love wearing whenever I want to feel comfortable and effortless, but still look like I’ve made an effort. Both of these pieces are loose-fitting and crafted from 100% linen. They’re comfortable to wear in the heat, and the long sleeves on the top lend themselves well to the kinds of temperatures we typically endure enjoy in British summers.
The trousers have a great barrel leg, which instantly adds shape to the outfit, elevating the overall look. They also have an elasticated waist (more comfort!). To give the whole look a little lift, I’ve added silver jewellery which sits nicely against the blue, and a pair of my ‘smarter’ leather sandals.
The rest of this post is for paid subscribers. Behind the paywall, you’ll find two more ways to wear the blue set above, a striped linen set that makes a statement (but still feels wearable), and an outfit that’s a nod to John Lennon… in the best way, of course.