It's no secret that I'm a big fan of a co-ord or any outfit that takes less than a minute to style, for that matter. When time is of the essence or, you know, you just don't have the brain capacity to make any decisions (same), a matchy-matchy pairing is a godsend. If you find yourself nodding in agreement, it's my happy duty to tell you that one of this summer's key trends falls neatly into the low-maintenance co-ord category.
We've been seeing more and more comfy shorts co-ords making the rounds on Instagram over the last 12 months. Initially, they came in cosy jersey fabrics via brands like The Frankie Shop, but as we move through summer 2023, we're seeing more refined iterations come to the fore that look a little more Sunday-brunch-in-the-sun and a little less Friday-night-Netflix-binge.
That being said, this is by no means jumping into the dressing-up deep end, and while the shorts set 2.0 often comes with a tailored fit, it will still feel relaxed enough to suit our lazy summer selves. My favourite way of styling this look has been relatively simple: gold jewellery, chunky sandals and oversize sunnies (a minimalist's dream). But there are also a number of brands embracing joyful prints, be it colourful checks, stripes or abstract florals—all guaranteed to put a smile on your face.
I have to say that the high street has really pulled it out of the bag with this trend, with premium-looking pieces coming from COS, Nobody's Child and H&M. I personally have my eye on COS's gingham iteration in navy and ecru, which will add a soft touch to my summer capsule. At the other end of the market, it's Deiji Studios delivering the goods, with clean-line linen co-ords in both faded hues and monochrome shades of black and white.
I would also recommend checking out what is currently in your wardrobe, as you may well be able to re-create the look using pieces that you already own, such as a classic white tee with white cotton shorts or a button-up denim shirt with fabric-match denim cut-offs. Trust me—when the mercury rises, this is all you'll want to be wearing. Scroll down to see and shop my edit of the best warm-weather shorts sets.
Shop my shorts-set edit:
I love how Net has styled the co-ord with heels in this model shot.
Boxer short, but make it chic.
Every editor on our team is obsessed with this shorts set.
So luxurious.
If in doubt, try a simple black set.
The bright orange hue adds a playful touch to this two-piece.
The perfect bikini cover-up.
I'm into this more fitted silhouette.
Crafted from an innovative blend of organic cotton and pineapple leaf fibre. Yes, you read that correctly.
This boyish fit is so versatile.
So cute!
Gingham is an essential print to have in your summer wardrobe.
This chic set comes in sizes 18 28.
This will look the stylish part worn over a black one-piece for the beach.
Deji Studios' collection is more on-point than ever.
A little something different for those days in the city.
You could also wear the shirt open with a white tank top underneath.
This set is perfectly cut.
If you like your shirts relaxed, try this Reformation number.
It doesn't get more classic than blue-and-white stripes.
This will pair beautifully with straw accessories.
Reformation is delivering with its smart co-ords this season.
Smart but comfy, thanks to the elasticated waistband.
I love this ditsy floral print.
For those who favour bolder hues...
This shade will be so eye-catching in the sun.
Arket's linen is the best on the high street.
I wear these over a swimsuit at the beach too.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
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