Just so breezy and comfortable, coord sets (coordinated sets) are just what we need to slay through the scorching summer months. Moreover, these matching ensembles ensure all that comfort while making us look stylish.

It’s no surprise that coords have become a summer uniform for fashion lovers everywhere. From celebrity closets to bustling stalls of local markets, coords are everywhere – making ripples in the fashion scene at all levels.

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The variety in the realm of summer coords is immense. Monotone sets in vibrant colours and the ones boasting peppy prints – mostly featuring a relaxed shirt and trousers – relish the most popularity. Even kurta coord sets have become wardrobe staples now.

However, the thing with coord sets is that they can easily be mistaken for loungewear (think night suits) if not styled well. Even fashion designers agree to it.

“There is a thin line between coord sets and night wear, and sometimes people get confused and treat it as one. However it is the approach which is important,” says designer Shruti Sancheti.

What mostly goes wrong

Nitika Gujral, founder of her eponymous Indian occasion-wear brand, adds that the loose and oversized fit of coord sets is what usually evokes the loungewear appeal. But the biggest culprit is not the relaxed silhouette. It is the lack of styling.

“Lack of accessories or pairing coords with casual footwear like slippers contribute to the laidback, loungewear look,” adds Gujral.

Udita Bansal, founder of urban-ethnic fashion brand trueBrowns, says that she personally pays close attention to details like fabric choice and overall styling to ensure that a coord set doesn’t give off nightwear.

Does it mean you should stop wearing these utterly comfy outfits? Certainly not! Instead, put in a little extra effort to turn it into a chic and polished ensemble.

Considering how coord sets are now so versatile and available in an array of silhouettes, they definitely deserve to be a part of summer fashion diaries.

Swathed in sequin, there are coord sets that easily fit the party dress codes (Think Kareena Kapoor’s Manish Malhotra set from Jio World Plaza opening).

Coords also make for a perfect holiday accompaniment. Anushka Sharma to Alia Bhatt, all fashionistas trust these matching duos to stay comfortable without compromising the style quotient. But what helps them slay those looks are the styling moves.

How to style your coord set right

We asked designers this question, and they had a lot to say. From accessorising thoughtfully to picking right footwear, fashion experts threw in a lot of suggestions (trust us, they are just some simple tips).

Accessorise well, but don’t go extra

Adding a set of suitable accessories can instantly remove the nightwear tag from your coord set. Udita Bansal suggests opting for minimalistic jewellery or a statement belt.

Shruti Sancheti also says that simple accessories like hoops, pearl-drop earrings, stacked bracelets and silver jewellery work well with coord sets. “However, elaborate neck pieces and big danglers or anything too striking is a complete no,” she adds.

A watch for an added touch of sophistication

A bag, watch and sunnies – they are all little details – but can instantly elevate your look. Furthermore, ensure your hair is neatly done too. Just take a cue from Anushka Sharma, who rocked a simplistic top and shorts set during a holiday but made it look oh-so-chic with minimalist styling.

Choose high-quality fabric

Avoid wearing coordinated sets crafted from cheap fabrics that could leave you looking like you just rolled out of bed.

“Pieces crafted from high-quality fabrics not only feel luxurious but also drape beautifully on the body,” says Bansal.

Footwear matters

The choice of shoes worn with your coord set significantly impacts the overall aesthetic.

“If you are aiming for a casual vibe, slip into your favourite pair of sneakers. Or, accentuate the look with heels or flats for added elegance,” suggests Nitika Gujral.

Make sure it fits you well

Lines between relaxed, oversized and extra loose can get easily blurred with coord sets. So, try the outfit first and see if it accentuates your frame and doesn’t look extra baggy. Otherwise, it is highly likely to give off loungewear.

Wear according to the occasion

Headed to office? Refrain from wearing a bright monotone set or anything featuring loud prints. Keep it simple with an elegant number in linen or cotton.

Don’t be mistaken that coords are limited to shirts and trousers only. Designers are also churning out office-ready coordinated sets in a variety of silhouettes like pantsuits and waistcoat-trouser sets.

Meanwhile, the latest trends

For the summer of 2024, consider adding coords featuring floral and geometric designs. “Matching prints are making a comeback. I’ve seen sets with bold patterns or floral designs that look cool when worn together,” says Bansal.

Designer Aniket Satam, meanwhile, says one should focus on picking interesting designs and be open to breaking the monotony of print-on-print by introducing a “mix of patterns, colors, and textures.”

“This summer, I see lots of organic Khadi coord sets becoming a popular choice,” adds Sancheti.

“Lightweight, breathable linen sets are ideal for warmer months, and provide a relaxed yet chic aesthetic,” says Nitika Gujral.

Get, set and slay!