Lately I’m obsessed with matching sets, either tops with pants, or tops with skirts. This trend may or may not be for you, especially if you are not into “matchy matchy” looks, but hear me out! You don’t necessarily have to wear a set in a bold print or a bright color (which I happen to love). Matching sets also come in subtle colors, in fluid silky silhouettes, double knits, ribbed knits and they can look like upscale athletic wear. Besides, many designers are offering matching set in their collections this season including Tom Ford, Sally LaPointe, Isabelle Marant, Diane von Furstenburg and Victoria Beckham, to name a few.
Reasons To Love Matching Sets
Here are good reasons to consider a matching set.
1. Matching sets create a uniform and streamlined look, which is very flattering.
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2. A set can look like a jumpsuit or dress but is more comfortable because there are two pieces.
3. They are a no-brainer, because your outfit is already put together for you (one and done). All you need to do is accessorize.
4. Matching sets give you optimal wardrobe mileage! You can create multiple looks when worn together or as separates. Some examples: 1. All together. 2. All together under a jacket. 3. The pants with a tee. 4. The pants with a shirt. 5. The pants with a blazer. 6. The top with jeans. 7. The top with dress pants. I think you get the drift! The possibilities are endless.
5. Matching sets often evoke a vintage vibe, either from the 60s or 70s so they are timeless. And as Diane Von Furstenberg told me when I had the honor of meeting her, “It is always the 70s.”
Did I convince you yet?
Matching Sets For Women Over 40
Take a look at some of the best matching sets for women over 40. One is sure to fit your style, and can play an important role in your wardrobe this year.
Geometric Print Cardigan Set
This is my favorite set because it is pulled together, super comfy-looking and I adore the bold 70s geometric print. I’d style it with sleek black booties and a turtleneck underneath. Then I’d wear the sweater with jeans or black leather pants or wear the pants under a black jacket or casually with a black hoodie.
La Double J Knit Leisure Cardigan $520 and Joggers $520
Chic Joggers Matching Set
A matching set can be simple and sporty, and one you can dress up or down like this wool and cashmere-blend sweater and track pants set. Wear it under a long tweed jacket with lug sole boots and it will look sleek and sophisticated. Dress it up with jewelry and slip on some heels for an evening look. This matching set would be perfect for travel.
Allude Wool and Cashmere-blend Sweater and Track Pants Set, $515
Ribbed Long Cardigan
Thia ribbed long cardigan set from Paige has great proportions. Ribbed knits can be clingy but this long sweater and wide leg pants matching set is forgiving and flattering for most figures. A patterned button down shirt underneath would give the set a professional look. Wear just the sweater with a leather belt, a scoop neck tee and tights for another option. Dress it down and wear the pants with a concert tee shirt and a leather jacket.
Paige Garnet Cardigan $199 and Olivine Pants, $169
Matching Skirt and Top Set
This skirt and blouse set in this gorgeous print from Isabel Marant is well worth the investment. It looks like a dress when worn all together. The boots and belt work well for the cooler months but this set will be perfect for spring too worn with sandals. The blouse will look fabulous with jeans in blue or white denim, or under a blazer. And the skirt will look light and airy with tank or tee for summer. This skirt set can certainly span the seasons.
Isabel Marant Banessa Blouse, $875 and Rosilia Skirt, $890
Pajama Shirt and Pants Set
This wonderful whimsical green and ivory print set from Victoria Beckham is fun and versatile. Wear it with sneakers to dress down, strappy heels to dress up or wear the set under a blazer with a belt and loafers for the office. For a warm climate vacation you can wear the oversized shirt as a beach cover up, and the pants with a tank top and sandals for site seeing.
Victoria Beckham Oversized Shirt, $720 and Pajama Trousers, $690
Elegant Evening Matching Set
Last but not least, I had to show you this set because it is so stunning! This look proves that matching sets can go anywhere, even to a black tie event. And yes, you may wear the shirt as a separate with leather or black pants, and wear the pants with a sweater or silk blouse, but I like it best when worn as a set!
Tom Ford Sequined Tulle Shirt, $1,190 and Wide Leg Pants, $1,390
Which of these matching sets would you wear?
You may also like to read Why You Will Love The Wide Leg Pants Trend: Splurge vs Steal and Splurge vs Steal: How To Style A Concert T-shirt When You’re Over 40.
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Oh now this is interesting. I think the prints are a bridge too far for me but I like the others for me.
Not sure I could pull this off, but it is fun.
Looks great on the models. but every time I try to rock a patterned match set, I look like a holdover from the 70’s.