Comfy and chic, these are easy outfits you don’t have to think about (The Independent/iStockphoto)
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While matching sets were for some time consigned to the annals of history – although we will forever love Cher Horowitz’s Nineties wardrobe, the resurgence of co-ords can be credited to the likes of Chanel, as well as the high street.
Last year’s take on the trend had just the right of snug, and luckily, it’s made a comeback this year, and is certainly something your winter wardrobe is in need of. Chic, classic and most importantly cosy, knitted co-ords offers a quick and easy solution to nailing off-duty style.
They’re pulled together enough to feel considered and more directional than loungewear, yet these combos still offer the cosiness we’re all pining after in 2020.
The beauty of these separates is that, yes, you can wear them at home, but you can elevate them by pairing with a chunky ankle boot and with a trench shrugged over your shoulders on drizzly, winter days, or a puffer jacket when the cold really bites.
Teaming them together creates a real statement, but of course they’ll work equally well when separated, making them well worth the money. Depending on how brave you are, we think wool skirts and matching tops look best with bare legs, so consider this when investing, and make sure you have the appropriate footwear.
From soft skirts to trouser combos, we’ve tested the best, only those with soft fabrics, a great fit and a highly versatile style made the cut.
You can trust our independent reviews. We may earn commission from some of the retailers, but we never allow this to influence selections, which are formed from real-world testing and expert advice. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.
Mango palazzo knit trousers and fine-knit cardigan
Mango has gone big with its knitted co-ord game this season, but this one was a stand out for us. The belted, longline cardigan allows for a more accentuated silhouette fit, allowing us to feel quite literally wrapped up – ideal for cold winter days. The palazzo trousers are a gorgeous cut but bear in mind these did come up quite long on our tester who is 5’6. For a pulled together look, we loved pairing with a pair of heeled ankle boots and this long lightweight trench coat (La Redoute, £68), which featured in our guide to the best women’s winter coats.
If you’re looking for an affordable smart option, this is the one for you. The slit on the ribbed skirt counters the slightly more formal nature of the co-ord, though we do advise sizing down for a closer fit on this one. The slight puff sleeves on the jumper are bang on trend, and it has a slightly cropped fit.
Whistles knitted merino wool tube skirt and cashmere roll neck knit
Another more formal option, the dreamy silhouette of the midi skirt combined with the relaxed oversized fit of the polo neck cashmere jumper means this is the perfect alternative to winter workwear (when we’re back to the office that is). While an expensive set when paired together, both are investment pieces that will stand the test of time.
Mango ribbed skirt and knit strap top and wool skirt
While not your usual type of set, this knit strap top and wool skirt make the perfect ensemble, particularly if you’re looking for something that bucks the trend. Both the skirt and crop top work well as standalone pieces, proving that it’s a versatile set, while the fit and quality of the fabric were high-quality, despite the reasonable price.
Cos merino wool seamless midi skirt and merino wool roll-neck zip-up jacket
For a slightly different take on the trend, we loved this zip-up jacket and co-ordinating midi skirt. The longline jacket acts as the perfect layering piece, and has a relaxed, slightly oversized fit, so we’d advise opting for your normal size. The skirt has an A-line, body skimming silhouette. Both pieces are made from 100 per cent merino wool, acting as a warm addition to your wardrobe. Wear with an oversized, crisp, plain white T-shirt loosely tucked in, and dress down with a pair of trainers.
Na-kd high waist knitted pants and oversized cropped cardigan set
If you’re after an off-duty look that can be dressed up as well as down, enter Na-kd’s knitted duo. Feeling like expensive loungewear, yet resembling your finery, we loved the leg-lengthening powers of the slightly flared trousers. Dress up with a big collar blouse like this one from Monki for £30, and ankle boots. The perfect addition for your wardrobe.
Asos design co-ord knitted wide leg trousers and long sleeve rib jumper set
As a go-to destination for failsafe knits, it’s no wonder that this Asos set scored high across versatility, fit and soft fabric. Split hem trousers are everywhere right now, and this wool pair offers a stylish, yet comfortable way to tap into the trend. Team with chunky boots and a grey longline coat – this one was a standout favourite in our review of women’s winter coats.
The easiest way to nail an off-duty look is with a twin-set, and this number ticks the boxes. Giving the illusion of a jumper dress, we loved the asymmetric, split hem skirt and think this would make the perfect festive season outfit. It’ll easily translate to be office appropriate, simply throw on an oversized blazer and slouchy knee-high boots. The perfect ensemble.
