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Just because we’ll be spending much more time out of the house this summer than we did last year doesn’t mean we’re completely ditching our comfy vibe. Sure, fancier going-out pieces and—gasp—heels are slowly starting to enter back into our outfit rotations, but I think I speak for everyone when I say that comfort is still our top priority. The trend that I’m unpacking here feels extra relevant right now for that reason. It’s easygoing and unfussy but still has that cool factor to it.
Enter the trend I’m dubbing summer sets. In lightweight fabrics like poplin and linen, these duos are defined by two pieces: a button-down shirt with long or short sleeves and coordinating shorts that are somewhat inspired by boxers. Almost as soon as I was aware that these sets were becoming a thing, they suddenly proliferated and started popping up everywhere I looked. Spot them on fashion-girl Instagram styled with cool basics like ribbed tanks and even worn as swimsuit cover-ups. Obviously, the idea is that you’ll be wearing them together, but like all good matching sets, each piece is easily styled solo, too.
To see all my favorite shorts sets in the market right now, just keep scrolling.
Ganni really hit it out of the park with this one. The print is somehow summery and seasonless all at once.
Shop the matching Printed Cotton Poplin Shorts ($155).
You’ve probably spotted the crisp shirting from this brand on your Instagram feed. As the name suggests, it stocks all the perfect menswear-inspired staples we’re after.
I’ve already spotted these boxer shorts on plenty of influencers.
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Very into the idea of styling this set with a cropped tank top, crew socks, and fresh sneakers like Claire’s outfit above.
Now that’s a summer ‘fit.
Beach cover-ups have never looked so cool, if you ask me.
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This color, though.
Shop the matching Marine Shirt ($130).
All about those retro prints this summer.
Shop the matching Fifi Sustainable Shorts in Disco Yellow ($125).
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A white set is so classic, and you already know there are a zillion ways to style the pieces separately.
Shop the matching Linen Shorts ($130).
The “dad” vibes are strong, but it works.
Shop the matching Striped Poplin Shorts ($40).
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How can you look at this buttery hue and resist? I know I can’t.
Shop the matching Lilly Shorts ($84).
Another day, another trippy print fashion girls will lose it over.
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Loving the color-blocking here.
Shop the matching Benny Shirt ($177).
Steal this styling idea for casual summer outings.
Shop the matching Oversized Linen Shirt ($99).
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The colors these sets are offered in just keep getting better and better.
Here’s how to wear all those bra tops you invested in last year.
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A funky print like this is basically begging to be complimented. Just saying.
Doesn’t get any easier than these.
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The perfect oversize fit.
Shop the matching Boxer Shorts ($58).
The kind of thing you can lounge at home in and still feel cool wearing out.
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This print looks like it would low-key go with everything.
Shop the matching Leighton Shorts ($128).
Pretty!
Shop the matching Shawn Shorts ($88).
Up next: 25 Cheap and Trendy Things I’m Buying for Summer in NYC