It takes two: the best co-ords to help you face the world again

Easy breezy floral dresses may be everywhere this spring, but there’s another contender worthy of the title of ‘ultimate re-entry attire’ – actually, there are two. The co-ord is fashion’s inimitable new double act. For those unfamiliar with the concept, co-ords, or two pieces, are a matchy-matchy dressing phenomenon that applies to everything from skirts and shirts to jackets and pants in corresponding prints or colourways.

A direct descendant of the trouser suit, these killer combos offer dressing simplicity as well as an achingly stylish way to polish your look. They’re also the ideal option for those keen on returning to the office with a more laid-back mindset, aesthetically speaking at least. Happily, there are plenty of co-ords to choose from this season, with everything from cocktail-hour shorts suits to a summer-ready play on the humble tracksuit gaining traction with fashion fans. Here’s a guide to the season’s greatest double acts. 

Head-to-toe prints belong on more than just PJs this spring – namely striking trouser suits and skirt and blouse combos. Team your two-piece of choice with neutral accessories – box-fresh white trainers are your friend here. And don’t shy away from colour. For the ultimate luxury lounge look that’s perfect for cocktail hour, tuck in your top layer and add oversized earrings.

Sweatpants give way to sweatshorts this summer, along with their best mate, the sweatshirt. A WFH ensemble that doubles as perfect garden lounging attire, the joy of the sweatshorts is their versatility. Seek out options in sunny shades – millennial pink or lemon is the dream – and wear with chunky sandals or your favourite pair of trainers, plus a crisp sports sock if you’re feeling brave.

For those who fear the formality of a trouser suit (and let’s face it, that’s all of us right now), this season brings with it a simple reworking of the serious staple. Loose-fitting blouson shirts and oversized smocks replace structured jackets, while trousers are relaxed and languid in silhouette and the perfect companion for commuter-friendly flats. If you do opt for a blazer, keep things easy with oversized shapes. This is the perfect look with which to dip a toe back into office life.

Weddings are back on the agenda and so too are cocktail shorts. This summer, the best around come with a mate and plentiful styling possibilities. If you’re a fan of a blazer, try swapping out the usual slouch pants for city shorts with a paper bag waist. A neatly-fitted bodice style top is another fine companion. Where shoes are concerned, keep things grounded with neat kitten heels or a statement flat. The shorts co-ord is the new floral dress: you heard it here first.