Matching Shorts Sets that are Comfy and Polished
Have you noticed that Matchy-Matchy is back in style? There are so many great matching short sets that I’m loving right now. Check out this cute 2-piece shorts set I just picked up and a few other favorites. Plus, how to style this new summer look.
Eyelet Shorts Set
Loft has many fabulous new arrivals, including this darling red shorts set. The top and shorts are made from a cool, relaxed linen blend. I love the pretty scalloped edging and feminine eyelet trim.
And this bright, Tamale red color—wow! It’s got so much energy and makes this outfit look exciting and sporty.
Yes, the shorts are on the short side (4.5″ inseam), but the higher round neckline on the top balances that out, creating a casually elegant outfit that looks great at any age (so long as you are comfortable wearing shorts, to begin with).
Shop the look
What’s so Great about Short Sets?
Everything! They are perfect for many reasons. Shorts sets are:
Easy: A summer no-brainer. You don’t need to think about what to wear. You throw a set on a set, much like a dress, and you are done.
Classy: Matching sets with matching tops and bottoms are dressier and more sophisticated than random separates. They make it easier for mature women to look/feel classy in shorts.
Slimming: Here’s a bonus for anyone wanting to look taller. Matching pieces (the same color and pattern up top and on the bottom) will do the trick.
Versatile: If you get tired of the matchy-matchy look, you can always wear the top or bottom from the set with other pieces for a different look.
How to Style a 2-Piece Shorts Set?
The whole point of a shorts set is that it is more pulled together and elegant than mixed separates, so I like to build on that by wearing simple, minimalist summer accessories. For example, I added classic gold braided sandals (similar), gold earrings (similar), and a classy, structured woven bag with this red shorts outfit.
What Shoes to Wear with a Shorts Set?
There’s no rule for what shoes to wear with a matching set. Sandals are natural with shorts. You can wear flat or low-block heel sandals or even a wedge. Sneakers are also great. Right now, there are many sneakers with a more refined, sporty look, which also helps to dress up shorts.
As for color, if your shorts set is a solid color, you can wear a solid-colored sandal like I did. I chose a gold sandal because it is neutral, and I wanted the red color to stand out. I also like the braided texture on my sandals because the shorts set is fairly smooth.
It’s also fine to wear a multi-colored sandal with a short set. Multi-colored sandals look more elegant if your shorts set is neutral rather than bright, like red. The key to classy is always to try and strike a balance with color.
Green Gauze shirt | Green Gauze shorts
How Do You Make Matching Sets Not Look Like Pajamas?
Many women wonder about this because many short sets with shirts are loose and flowy, especially short sets made of cotton gauze.
Fit is important. Remember that so your shorts set doesn’t look oversized and sloppy. Also, it helps to style your shorts set by creating an interesting shirt tuck, turning up your shirt collar, or rolling up your sleeves.
Jewelry will also make your short set look more intentional. (You wouldn’t go to bed in your pajamas wearing jewelry!)
If your shorts set top is a button-up shirt or a jacket (for example, this Dressy Shorts and Jacket Set), you can wear the jacket or shirt open and with a tank top underneath.
More Shorts Sets for Ladies
I’ve talked about matching linen shorts sets and gauze short sets. Other short sets that are popular right now are:
Lace-up hoodie | matching shorts
Matching Hoodie Shorts Set
I love this soft, comfy Terry set from Talbots with the cute hoodie. What a great way to elevate an athleisurewear look.
Linen Shorts Set
This is cute and different too – high waisted blue and white pinstripe shorts and a button up fitted tank. It almost looks like a romper! This cute top and matching 100% European linen shorts are from Quince.
Tropical Print Short Set
Prints can be tricky, but this is a good one. The colors are gorgeous, and the print is so summery. This outfit almost is like a jumper.
Whimsical Ric Rac Shorts Set
Ric Rac is trending this summer, and this cute short set is all over Amazon. This whimsical matching top and bottom come in many colors, but I think black looks sophisticated and balances the playful nature of the ric rac.
striped summer top | Striped shorts
Striped Sporty Shorts Set
This is a great-looking, classic short set that is sporty and timeless. You can’t go wrong with it.
chambray shirt top | chambray shorts
Chambray Shorts Set
If you love more of a washed denim look, this relaxed chambray short set has a natural vibe that says summer.
Two-piece Matching Cropped pants set
Not a Shorts Fan? How about this Two-piece Matched Set?
For all my Gals who love the idea of a shorts set but don’t want to wear shorts anymore, how about this? Flowy, cropped wide-leg pants with a matching cropped top will keep you cool in the heat, but you’ll feel less exposed.
Do you like matching sets?
Do you think two-piece sets are a good way to wear shorts at 40,50, and 60+? Let me know what you think in the comments below!
