If there’s one thing summer calls for, it’s ease. And what better way to practice this than by turning to the kind of garments that will solve a summer styling conundrum in one fell swoop? That’s right, we’re talking, once again, about the matching set.
No matter the occasion, you can always count on pairs of coordinating separates to deliver on polish and poise. From suit-style pairings to a crop top and maxi skirt coupling, a matchy-matchy look is the perfect sartorial solve for everything from weekend getaways to outdoor brunches and destination weddings. Read on to discover seven of our favorite matching sets for the season.
1.
The set for...
dramatic elegance
Cut from lustrous burgundy polished cotton jacquard, this glamorous set by Nigerian designer Emmy Kasbit is an embodiment of the brand’s artful take on tailoring. With its elegant longline silhouette and striking panel construction, the Adejare Jacket makes for the perfect finishing touch to any evening ensemble, but when paired with its matching trousers offers a refined, head-turning take on the classic suit.
2. .
The set for...
saturday style
Black and white is a chic answer to many a closet conundrum, and this patterned pairing from Senegal's Diarrablu is no exception. Emblazoned with dynamic black and white lines, the Fatu Top and Leer Pants can easily be paired with plenty of other separates, but when worn as a set, the pairing exudes an enviable sophistication. Rendered in easygoing shapes—the wrap silhouette and dramatic bell sleeves of the top couple beautifully with the trouser’s loose palazzo form—these resortwear style pieces are perfect for leisurely lunches in the sun or vacations spent exploring quaint beachside towns.
3.
The set for...
Tropical Glamor
Looking to capture a jubilant summer aesthetic with your matching set but not so keen on the stuffiness of a suit-style ensemble? Consider the Aggie Crop Top and Skirt set by Studio 189. Crafted from cotton grown in Accra, Ghana, and hand-dyed by Ghanaian artisans through the traditional process of hand-batiking, the summer-ready pairing is at once laid-back and polished, and its full, floor-sweeping silhouette and Bardot-style top exude an air of glamour and inspires dreams of sunny days spent in tropical locales. Wear it with a classic flat sandal and a wide-brimmed hat, and you're sure to hit the right note, whatever the occasion.
4.
The set for...
Eclectic Polish
Meticulously handmade from pure silk satin at the brand’s Johannesburg-based atelier, the Banana Orchid Overshirt, and Samurai Pants by Viviers is just the set to don at your next fabulous get-together. Whether it’s a formal dinner party or a night out on the town, the set’s flamboyance is sure to stun, its shirt’s one-of-a-kind motif and touches of electric blue sitting harmoniously along the rusted gold hue of the sleeves and matching trousers. Together, the two garments create a silhouette that telegraphs poise and confidence.
5.
The set for...
Playful Panache
Made in Kenya from upcycled cotton twill, this dandelion yellow shirt and short set by IAMISIGO is a must-have vacation suitcase addition. Though expertly cut and crafted, frayed detailing and slits at the hem keep things playful, and while these sunshine-hued coordinates can easily be worn on separately with just a white T-Shirt or pair of classic jeans for a more pared-back effect, wearing them together creates a bold statement look. Team with a pair of towering high-heels or keep things casual with the addition of an on-trend chunky sneaker.
6.
The set for...
Classic Minimalism
With its crisp, sky-blue shade and whimsical twist on classic tailoring, Emmy Kasbit’s Asake Shirt and Skirt set is refined yet relaxed. Part of the brand’s SS ‘21 collection, the coordinated set consists of a classic button-down shirt with unique cutout detail and high-waisted pencil-style skirt, the latter’s mid-calf length and daring front slit lending the look an element of unexpected edge. Complete things with a minimalist, slip-on mule and super subtle stud earrings and let the ensemble's inherent grace take center stage.
7.
The set for...
Beachy ease
Beat the heat this summer in an unconventional yet graceful and warm weather-appropriate duo by Diarrablu: the Reversible Poncho and Fekh Shorts pairing, for which designer Diarra Bousso reportedly drew inspiration from the architecture and vibrant colors of the Mauritian town of Ouadane or Wādān. Made from wool and acrylic, the poncho’s relaxed shape drapes elegantly at the front, making switching between the solid color on one side and the black and white Suto print on the other simple, and when worn with an elegant summer slide will have an equally arresting impact at the office and your next outdoor dinner party.
in the spotlight
Meet the Artists Responsible for Nigeria’s Pop-Art Resurgence
Sep 10, 2021
read morein the spotlight
SA Women’s Month: A Stylish Salute to 4 of the Country’s Most Iconic Women
Aug 30, 2021
read more