There’s something about summer that makes getting dressed feel like it should be easier. And that’s probably why I keep reaching for a summer set this time of year especially when I’m hanging around the house and running errands.
Lately, my favorite has been the Lou & Grey Striped Terrysoft Polo Top with the matching Lou & Grey Striped Terrysoft Shorts from LOFT – the red and white striped set that somehow feels equal parts playful, nostalgic and elevated. It’s easy in the way summer clothes should be easy.
The soft terry fabric of this summer set gives it that relaxed feel but the polo collar and coordinated shorts make it feel intentional enough that you still look put together even when the temperatures are climbing.
And as someone who loves pieces that can work for real life – errands, coffee runs, farmer’s markets, porch sitting, vacation mornings, casual dinners – this one checks every box!
(Outfit Details: Top, Shorts, Baseball Cap, Watch, Tote – similar, Sandals)
Why I Love a Matching Set in Summer
I think matching sets are one of the smartest things you can have in your closet because they do the styling work for you. You instantly look polished without needing to think too hard.
But what I especially love about this summer set is that the red stripe feels fun without being too loud. It has a slightly vintage, Americana feel that just works in summer, especially paired with simple accessories and relaxed styling.
It feels like the kind of outfit you could wear:
- on a beach trip
- walking through town on vacation
- at home on the patio with coffee
- watching fireworks in July
- grabbing dinner after a lake day
Comfortable, but still styled.
(Outfit Details: Top, Shorts, Baseball Cap, Watch, Tote – similar)
How To Style This Set
1. Keep The Shoes Simple
This set really shines when the styling stays effortless.
Think:
- classic white sneakers
- neutral sandals (love this set paired with these birkenstocks!)
- woven slides
- simple flip flops for a casual beach-day look
You don’t need anything overly complicated here.
(Outfit Details: Top, Shorts, Baseball Cap, Watch, Tote – similar, Sandals)
2. Add Texture Through Accessories
Because the set already has pattern and color, I’d keep accessories natural and relaxed:
- raffia tote
- straw hat
- layered gold jewelry or classic watch
- canvas bag
- oversized sunglasses
- baseball cap
Summer texture pairs perfectly with the sporty stripe.
(Outfit Details: Top, Shorts, Baseball Cap, Watch, Tote – similar, Sandals)
3. Wear The Pieces Separately
This is why sets are always worth it to me.
The polo sweatshirt top would look so cute with:
And the shorts would pair easily with:
- a simple white tank
- oversized button-down
- lightweight sweater on cooler evenings
You’re really getting multiple outfits in one.
4. Lean Into The Relaxed Fit
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that summer style almost always looks better when it feels slightly undone.
Not sloppy but relaxed.
This set has that easy balance where you can half-tuck the polo, push up the sleeves a bit, throw your hair in a claw clip and suddenly it feels very effortless in the best way.
(Outfit Details: Top, Shorts, Baseball Cap, Watch, Tote – similar, Sandals)
Summer Style Should Feel Easy
I think sometimes we overcomplicate summer wardrobes trying to create endless outfit combinations when really, the best summer pieces are the ones you instinctively reach for again and again.
The pieces that feel good. The ones that work for your actual life and ones that make getting dressed feel simple.
And for me lately, this little red striped set has been exactly that.
-Natalie, xo
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