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7 min read
Buttons for easy breastfeeding, comfy fabrics and elasticated waistbands are all the name of the game when it comes to these chic co-ords.
It doesn’t matter if you have a wardrobe stocked full of gorgeous pieces or you love to keep up to date with the latest catwalk trends – having a baby is a surefire way to zap time and energy out of your ability to put together new looks. In fact, we commend anyone who manages to step out of PJs when caring for a tiny human. So if you’re a mum in need of quick and easy outfits, we’re here to offer a suggestion: co-ords.
Trusty two-pieces are a great go-to when time is scarce, as they can be big on comfort while helping you look instantly put-together. Look for soft cotton fabrics, oversized fits and elasticated waistbands, as well as designs featuring trousers (so you can sprint after any nearly-toddlers big enough to walk) and easy fastenings (reducing the faff involved in breastfeeding).
To help relieve some post-baby stress without actually offering to take the night shift (we would if we could), we’ve scoured a whole host of stores to find the best co-ords for every occasion. We just hope your little one naps long enough for you to reach the checkout.
Asos Design curve sleeveless shirt & curve wide-leg trouser co-ord
Saint Laurent solidified khaki as one of the key trends of the season and this paler shade is certainly chic. Combined with craft cut-outs, it’s sure to work with every occasion whether styled with a heel or a simple trainer.
Shop Asos Design curve sleeveless shirt and curve wide-leg trouser co-ord at Asos, £74
Damson Madder Alys vest and vacation pants
All-black outfits are a fashion fan’s favourite when looking understated yet elegant is the aim, and this Damson Madder set does just that. Ladder-like embroidery elevates the two-piece even further, emphasising its summer feel.
Deiji Studios washed-linen shirt and shorts set
If it’s cosy comfort you’re after, Stylist’s fashion director Lucy Reber highlights this Deiji Studios set as one to snap up. Crafted from linen with an oversized feel, it will keep you cool on the most manic of days.
Shop Deiji Studios washed-linen shirt and shorts set at Net-a-Porter, £217
TU For All The Love border print satin relaxed holiday co-ord shirt and trousers
Co-ords are a great way to inject fun, playful patterns into your wardrobe without having to figure out how to style them. This bold leaf-print set is formal enough in shape to work for any occasion.
Shop TU For All The Love border print satin relaxed holiday co-ord shirt at Sainsburys, £28
Shop TU For All The Love border print satin wide-leg co-ord trousers, £28
Free-Est sightseer linen co-ord
Free People is home to a huge selection of feminine, floaty pieces and this co-ord is no exception. Made from a rayon-linen blend, it’s lightweight enough to tackle warm weather yet loose enough to be layered over a jumper or long-sleeve top on cooler days too.
Hush waistcoat and A-line linen maxi skirt
If you’re searching for a skirt set, this olive green Hush option will tick plenty of boxes. The midi skirt and waistcoat are key style pieces in their own right this season, so you’ll be able to work them into plenty of other outfits as well.
Lucy & Yak Alfie shirt and Jessie shorts
For laidback days that could benefit from a boost of joy-inducing colour, this sweet Lucy & Yak set will do just the trick. Crafted from organic cotton and linen, it’s soft against the skin and is sure to last a long time. Plus, it spans sizes 6-32, meaning plenty of people can pick it up.
Shop Alfie shirt organic cotton and linen sunset orange at Lucy & Yak, £40
Shop Jessie shorts organic cotton and linen sunset orange at Lucy & Yak, £38
M&S satin tailored cropped waistcoat and skirt
For a more formal fit, look no further than this M&S duo, which is already selling out in some sizes. Granted, it isn’t the most practical pick for childminding, but its buttons will facilitate easier breastfeeding. It can also be chucked in the washing machine on a delicate spin, making it a standout find for any summer weddings with an infant in tow (hello, baby sick).
Mango crochet waistcoat with buttons and trousers
Home to a huge selection of chic yet more affordable finds, Mango is one of our regular haunts for feel-good fashion. Comfy and colourful enough to make you feel more awake, this crochet co-ord is perfect for warmer weather or if you’re holidaying with your babe in arms.
Massimo Dutti linen blend co-ord
Massimo Dutti is home to plenty of workwear fits and this co-ord is certainly chic. No matter if you’re heading back into the office or for a catch-up brunch with friends, the linen blend two-piece is formal in fit yet easy enough to move in (even if you’re tugging a little one along too).
Shop linen blend co-ord shirt with seam detail at Massimo Dutti, £69.95
Shop linen blend wide-leg co-ord trousers at Massimo Dutti, £99.95
Mint Velvet brown cotton puff sleeve top and skirt
While colourful co-ords can be a great way to liven up your wardrobe, easy-to-wear neutrals are often hard to beat. The simple shade of this Mint Velvet set allows the striking design details to shine, including puff sleeves and a maxi skirt length. Plus, it’s loose enough to breastfeed with ease.
Never Fully Dressed white island Lydia top and Marra trousers
A tile print adorned with palm trees, pineapples and sunbeams immediately makes us think of footloose and fancy-free holidays (in other words, a far cry from childcare duties). Complete with a loose-fitting trouser and floaty vest top, this summer-ready set will liven up your wardrobe while being loose enough to breastfeed or sprint in (if needed).
Shop white island Lydia top at Never Fully Dressed, £69
Shop white island Marra trousers at Never Fully Dressed, £99
New Look curves dark brown wrap front linen-look cami and trousers
An elasticated waistband should never be overlooked when comfortable fashion is the aim of the game. The vest’s high neckline makes it feel more formal, perfect for any occasion.
Shop curves dark brown wrap front linen-look cami at New Look, £22.99
Shop curves dark brown linen-look wide leg trousers at New Look, £29.99
Next ecru white abstract co-ord longline top and trousers
The dresses-over-trousers trend has enjoyed a recent resurgence amongst fashion fans, and this longer-length top can double up as a dress if you’re looking to bare your legs. The geometric print, meanwhile, is eternally stylish.
River Island red textured sleeveless shirt and trousers
Despite looking relatively formal thanks to its sharp collar, front buttons and longer top, this crinkle-cut set is actually incredibly comfortable. The soft cotton-blend fabric will keep you comfortable while looking effortlessly elegant.
John Lewis linen blend beach shirt and shorts
Despite its name, you don’t have to be at the beach to wear this John Lewis set. Offering a great pop of colour in an oversized, chic cut, the striking style will have you looking instantly put together and ready to tackle the warmer weather within seconds.
Toast summer camp stripe cotton smock and shorts
Toast is a great go-to for more planet-friendly picks. This striped summer-ready set is crafted from 100% cotton, and will come up lovely after multiple rounds in the washing machine.
Shop summer camp stripe cotton smock at Toast, £125
Shop summer camp stripe organic cotton shorts at Toast, £115
White Stuff Florence vest and Seema skirt
This White Stuff set will inject vibrant colour into any wardrobe. The loose-fitting vest can easily be slipped on and off (or shrugged up when breastfeeding), while the midi skirt adds great dimension with every step.
Cos striped knitted vest and skirt
This striped Cos set is another find from our fashion director Lucy Reber. Loose enough to breastfeed in, the relatively formal shape will slot back into office environments with ease. Plus, the bold pattern should help to hide any unwanted stains that appear throughout the day.
Images: courtesy of brands
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