Coords, short for Coordinating (or Coordinates) is a trend that has been on the fashion front row for the past few years. Every designer from Milly to ODLR has shown their take on the look, from full skirts to crop tops to Prom dresses. Personally I love the trend, as there is so much versatility in owning 2 pieces that can be worn separately- but when worn together- really make a statement. The problem is that most coords leave less room to the imagination, which means belly baring or mini skirt silhouettes.
As a fully functioning adult who isn’t craving to show her tummy or teeny bop her way around the next party, you may ask yourself, “Just how do I partake in the coord trend?”
Well, the answer my friends, is blowing in the wind…
No, really though.
This breezy striped coord set from Free People is just what the doctor ordered in terms of coverage, versatility and… adult-ability (coining that phrase). Now when you are poolside with other moms, strolling down the beach or just heading out for a day of wine tasting, you have a way to nail the 2 piece matching set trend while still looking carefree.
I love that the pants hit at the natural waist and are cut to be worn with flats, which makes this look perfect as a bathing suit coverup and walking with sandals or no shoes on. I love the idea of wearing a strapless bathing suit top underneath the tunic, since you will still get coverage from the pants. And while many people think that they can’t wear tunics, I dare you to try! It’s just like a dress, but with much more versatility and movement. Combine the long layers with the vertical stripes and you will look 3″ taller (no guarantee). I love the idea of wearing the tunic with skinny jeans and heels for a simple and sleek night out look.
I matched my striped coord set with red mirrored cat eye sunnies and statement gold earrings. The sunglasses were a last minute add on, but I love them so much that they are currently at the top of the sunglass pile. I never realized how flattering a cateye shape is, and in red, there’s just nothing else necessary but sunscreen!
The final piece of the look is a great pair of wear anywear, anytime sandals. There are some crazy trends out there with summer footwear right now, but I always think a good summer sandal is the place to pair back and look for comfort. Especially if you are combining the sandal with a statement outfit or a coord like this one!
Shop the Ruby striped coord set, Red Cat-Eye Sunglasses and Summer Sandals, or another striped sets I love like this floral one or this skirt option.
Thank you to Free People for providing the product for this post. All editing, thoughts, styling and opinions are my own!
