Some things make so much sense together, you wonder why it took so long for them to hook up in the first place. (Here’s looking at you Rihanna and A$AP Rocky).
Co-ords have long evolved past twin-set formality into something more relaxed, and are now destined to reach their laid-back apex in this new power pairing: shorts and shirts. They now exist in happy harmony – as matchy-matchy sets – and are poised to take the hassle out of summer dressing. Just look to Sophie Turner for inspiration, who recently showcased a chic holiday combination in Hyères.
Turner wore a blue and white stripe cotton poplin cropped shirt and matching trousers from Athens-based label Woera, a brand founded by Natalia Georgala in 2019. A tribute to the classic tailoring of men's shirts, the label offers a sensuous, playful take on a timeless wardrobe staple, resulting in practical pieces which simultaneously feel fresh and stylish. Moreover, Turner is leaning into one of 2024's breakout trends: pyjama bottoms by day. Moving on from last year's penchant for boxer shorts, the fashion girls are wearing crisp cotton poplin trousers as part of their easy, everyday looks. Turner wore hers with Adidas Sambas, as well as a necklace and earrings from Tilly Sveaas, the affordable jewellery brand loved by so many celebrities at present.
If you are a shorts person, however, you'll find shorts-plus-shirt sets aplenty in crisp cottons and breezy linens, sun-bleached stripes and ice-cream pastels. They work so well right now because they straddle the unique demands of our summer wardrobes: easy enough for staycations and sufficiently polished for balmy dinners (choose a long enough short and you could even take them to the office). Think of it as a zero-hassle total look for anyone who's bored thinking about more summer dresses - or feeling a little hot under the collar in this week's (and next's, apparently) heatwave.
But as mentioned, even the most fearless dresser can be daunted by shorts. If that’s you, this could be your soft landing: flattering, high-waisted, loose-cut styles are dominating. And there are other versions of the summer co-ord that are worth getting on your radar – swishy midi skirts and fluid trousers are your friend if you want something that feels a bit more elegant. Roksanda's recent collaboration with Jigsaw boasts a beautiful ice blue satin top and matching long skirt – both selling fast now that they're in the sale.
The best aspect of these summer co-ords? They can be as polished or undone as you like, as illustrated by the dressed-up likes of Hannah Dodd in Liberowe at the Cartier Queen's Cup polo and, in juxtaposition, the relaxed vibe of Matilda Djerf in a scrunched cotton shirt and maxi skirt.
Discover the best dynamic duos to shop now below.
Shop: The Best Summer Co-Ords 2024
aligne.co
Made from 100% organic cotton, this balloon sleeve shirt will be a very helpful wardrobe staple on its own, as well as matching perfectly with the below shorts. An ideal outfit for a day of sightseeing on holiday or for hot summer days spent running around at home.
aligne.co
Even if you usually avoid shorts, this pair is particularly flattering thanks to its take on the classic boxer short shape. An elasticated waist and looser fit on the leg means they're comfortable, too. Try with a white vest and the matching shirt worn open over the top – add chunky gold jewellery to tone down the beachy vibes and you've got your new weekend ensemble.
www.anthropologie.com
If you have weddings on the horizon, or indeed any summer events, consider this your perfect alternative to a dress. It's slightly unexpected but super chic, and you can afford to keep accessories to a minimum.
www.anthropologie.com
Not only will these trousers provide a brilliant alternative to a dress for those occasions with a dress code, they'll also prove indispensable considering you could wear them for work with white shirts and tucked-in blouses. They'll also look great with just a white tee and trainers.
kitristudio.com
For a fresh take on the classic suit this summer, try Kitri's pistachio set. This tie-front blazer is of a really beautiful quality and will look fab with your favourite jeans, too.
kitristudio.com
These trousers are so good, they've already sold out once before. Thankfully, you can now pre-order them and, if you don't want to pair them with the above blazer, there's a matching oversized shirt instead.
www.nobodyschild.com
Nobody's Child's co-ords have a tendency to sell out, so it's always best to act quickly. This long-line top and trousers will prove to be another low maintenance outfit that is stylish, comfortable and works (with perhaps an added outer layer) in any summer weather.
www.nobodyschild.com
These trousers will quickly become the backbone of your summer wardrobe, whether you wear them with matching pieces or not. You'll wonder how you ever got dressed without them.
damsonmadder.com
Who said you can't wear leopard print head-to-toe? It's a neutral, after all. This blouse will also go with everything from high waisted trousers to midi skirts.
damsonmadder.com
Another easy, breezy piece to add to your summer wardrobe, you can keep the rest of your outfit neutral, match it with the above leopard blouse or even opt for clashing prints.
www.freepeople.com
Free People has some of the best co-ords for summer this year, especially if you're looking for relaxed pieces like this perfectly oversized duo. The best bit? The pieces are sold as one, rather than separately – and they're still under £90.
www.withnothingunderneath.com
The best shirts in the business, With Nothing Underneath's linen styles are perfect for summer, particularly when paired with the matching palazzo pants. There are multiple colours to choose from, too.
www.withnothingunderneath.com
If you're going on holiday, consider these trousers for your travelling outfit. They're soft, comfortable and still look stylish even with a few creases.