With the holiday season coming to an end and colder months ahead, cozy dressing is all I can think about. As much as I love dressing up, this time of year, there’s no denying the irresistible pull of matching knitwear and lounge sets. Consider these a more modern take on the classic shell and cardigan sweater set. Whether it’s an upgraded sweat suit or a matching pullover and skirt, sets can be a one-and-done outfit formula for winter. Here are a few options and combinations to consider.
In my mind, the ultimate set trending this season and super easy to pull off is the pullover, cardigan, and skirt set. Think of this as a knitwear trifecta. It can be all worn together or broken up. I’m liking the options from H&M, which features a gray mélange Flared Knit Skirt and matching Kint Cardigan and Oversized Sweater, perfect for a slouchy, yet chic look. I’d wear all three together with loafers from 9 to 5. Then, the skirt with a silky top and heels for the evening, with the cardi and pullover in different looks during the weekends. They also have a version in boucle knit, but instead of a cardi and sweater, the skirt pairs up with a hoodie for extra coziness on the go.
For work-from-home days, which may include a lunch-hour grocery run, consider an elevated sweatsuit like Girlfriend Collective’s 50/50 Relaxed Fit Joggers and Sweatshirt that comes in three muted colors and sizes from XS up to 6XL. Sure, you can wear mismatched sweats, but a matching set has a more put-together feel if you’re leaving the house. For days when you’re hunkering down to enjoy some TV time, consider swapping out your PJs for Nordstrom’s So Soft Sweater and Lounge Pant set. I’m a big advocate of changing out of sleepwear, even if you’re just puttering around the house. Then, if you do need to go out, simply slide on some sneakers and grab a scarf, hat, and puffer jacket for a functional yet coordinated look.
Sweater sets are great for traveling as well as home-bodying. Whether you wear a matching top and bottom en route or pack for the trip, the right knitwear outfit keeps you comfortable and gives off an air of quiet luxury. Gap’s CashSoft Cable-Knit Sweater and Pants come in a really gorgeous evergreen color you can wear together with a long woolen coat and Chelsea boots. You can also pair the sweater with jeans while the pants loosen up a button-down and cardigan combo. Another great travel option is Three Bird Nest’s Set to Go Textured Jumpsuit and Cardigan Set. This comfy jumpsuit features a drawstring waist, tank top sleeves, and a matching duster-length cardigan. Again, wear together, with a striped long-sleeved t-shirt underneath, or wear as separates, throwing the cardi over a blouse and jeans for extra coverage.
I also like the idea of a matching sweater vest and pants, like Madewell’s Stockton Sweater Set. This longer knit vest and pull-on pants come in three different earth-toned neutrals and can be layered with a turtleneck and suede clogs for a boho grandma coastal vibe, chic-afield with ballet flats and a blazer, or toughened up with boots and oversized leather jacket. With any sweater vest set, you can style the vest on its own over a dress or blouse and trousers, while the pants can be paired with a T-shirt and cardigan.
Speaking of grandmas, for the mature lady, I’d recommend Amazon seller Tanming’s Sweater 2 Piece Lounge set. This is a short-sleeved knit top with a drop shoulder, side split hem, and breezy fit. The equally flowy bottoms are cropped, wide-leg, and high-waisted for a casual yet elegant look. The piping along the hems and sleeves elevates this knitted pair to be worn out and about for casual gatherings like brunch and makes a great ‘fit for hosting a wintertime shindig. However, unlike the other sets, I’d recommend against splitting these pieces into different outfits. Some sets are meant to be worn together. If you’re unsure, try it out at home. If wearing one piece of a set with something else feels “unfinished,” then you’ve got a wear-together-always set.
It can be a pain to figure out how to dress in the winter while still being stylish. These various takes on sweater sets make that work a little easier. In fact, you may say they are the ultimate shortcut to looking casual yet put-together. Plus, for the most part, their mix-and-match potential unlocks a lot of outfitting versatility for the season. The only real challenge is deciding which set is best.
