Needs minimal effort, is chic and ever-so stylish, the co-ords have taken the fashion world by storm like nothing else! They epitomise convenience and are practically the perfect solution for all busy gals looking to make a statement without much effort. Co-ords are also a great option for anyone looking to go from casual afternoon stroll to evening glam in minutes. With versatile styles making a mark on runways, you should be getting your hands on some comfy, chic co-ords right now!
But while the style has gradually become a staple for casual day outings, co-ords are not really a new trend. The evolution of this new style favourite is quite interesting. So, since we’re obsessed with co-ords and we presume so are you, we decided to dig deeper to find out where it all began…
Was it Victorian?
Well, like everything else in fashion, we’re quite certain it was the Victorian era that brought the co-ords too! And yes, certain sources do claim that clothes were designed using the same fabric to cut down on costs. With the crinolines of the mid 1800s becoming a part of the dresses made for social events, it must have seemed practical to design the bodice and skirts with the same fabric, after all huge amounts of fabric were being used! Anyway, co-ord as a fashion statement or necessity slowly made its way into the ballrooms and are we thankful for that!?
The 1920s
How can we forget the Chanel jacket? French fashion designer Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel is credited for creating so many iconic styles, but the one that has stood the test of time, is certainly the cardigans and knitted jackets with the matching skirt! Created to put an end to the messy hair while getting in and out of pullovers, the Chanel cardigan set had become a symbol of power dressing in the early 1900s, with the wool cardigan and matching skirt making the perfect counterpart for suits.
The rest of 1900s
After Chanel, the co-ords made an appearance in every fashion runway, albeit in different styles. From tweed and skirts to floral button-downs and boots and trousers, or even the tshirt and tights that we’re seeing everywhere today, co-ords evolved to meet the changing preferences of customers worldwide.
The Royals
Well, when it’s the royals how can we not recall the iconic style of Princess D? While the power dressing of the royals has seen a plethora of the matching skirt and top ensembles, it’s always Princess Diana who created quite a flutter with her co-ordinates. Be it her royal blue or red or pink skirt and blouse, or the Liberty print shirt with yellow dungarees, or so many other iconic outfits like the red skirt-suit with gold buttons and the matching beret, her choice of co-ords were revolutionary. And interestingly the legacy is now being carried forward by Kate Middleton, whose co-ord sweater skirt sets are nothing short of iconic.
Co-Ords Today
From the formal coat and trousers to the accordion skirt and top to the ever-popular linen crop top and trousers, today co-ords are available in myriad styles and silhouettes. Whether you’re planning to wear one to the office or looking for stylish resort wear co-ords, the options are numerous for this versatile ensemble. The modern day co-ords make for great party wear and interestingly you can mix and match them to create your own two- or three-piece co-ord set or even the casual co-ord set skirt and top. Looking for some inspiration? Here are some co-ords from IshqMe’s collection to get you started.
Mocha Casual Set
Ace the airport look with our ultra-casual, comfy mocha casual set. A three-piece co-ord set, this shrug, tank top and knitted joggers offers the ultimate comfort for lounging for long, be it at a sleep-over or changeover at the airport. Designed in breathable knit, this 3-piece co-ord is every girl’s go-to outfit for those lazy days when you want to look chic with zero effort.
Aegean - Retro Printed Crop Top and Skirt
A cap sleeved crop top with a retro printed skirt to match, this coordinated top and skirt set will get you in a tango mood in no-time. The trendy handkerchief skirt with pockets combines the best of convenience with style for the modern girl who knows what she wants!
Persephone - Colour Blocked Linen Co-ord Set
Why shouldn’t you look elegant yet keep it casual?! Our easy on the eye, pastel colour-blocked linen co-ord set is so lightweight, you’ll breeze through the day in style. Throw a nice jacket over and you could be ready to even take that lunch meeting with your boss. Just accessories with our girl-boss hoops and a cuff bracelet and you’re good to go.
Rio - Brick Red Co-ord Set
Vibrant red with tassels for the girly chic look, this crop top and trouser co-ord set should be your go-to style for lounging by the pool at a relaxing resort or walking through cobbled streets at a picturesque holiday destination. Wear it for your casual dinners or even a lunch date, just remember to go bold with our statement jewellery.
Co-ords are a style essential that you just can’t have enough of. They’re the perfect resort wear outfit that can be accessorised to make you the talk of the town at your next soiree. Just get the accessories right and you should be ready to slay! And well, if you’re still not sure, we’ve got a co-ord set to match your every occasion and meet your every mood. Shop our collection here.