The best way to wear print right now: To match it up with these printed co-ords! Images: Alice & Olivia, Bimba y Lola, Zalora, Raoul and Topshop
Going matchy-matchy from head to toe is no longer just for the women of 1960s period drama series Mad Men.
Printed matching separates are back in fashion, thanks to modern shapes, such as crop tops and shorts, as well as vibrant colours and patterns.
The set can be worn to make a statement or toned down separately with other pieces. In fashion terms, this equates to three looks for the price of one.
Finish off with metallic shoes, accessories and sunglasses for a retro-inspired but thoroughly modern look.
This article was first run in The Straits Times newspaper on August 22, 2014. For similar stories, go to sph.straitstimes.com/premium/singapore. You will not be able to access the Premium section of The Straits Times website unless you are already a subscriber.
$79 (top) and $79 (skirt), available from 01-25 Wisma Atria from the end of next month
This girly top-and-skirt combination is a fun exercise in retro-pink goodness. The gold zigzag piping peps up the more old-fashioned textural print. The pleats of the skirt and cut of the top are flattering.
$450 (top) and $415 (skirt), from B1-04 Ion Orchard
The print of this matching set is a bit more offbeat and Frida Kahlo-esque compared with the usual florals. The colours, too, are a bit more subdued, lending the quirky cartoon-like look a grown-up quality.
£97 (S$201, top) and £101 (S$209, shorts), from www.theoutnet.com
This top-and-shorts set features tiny florals in shades of green, blue and red. The lightly pleated jacquard shorts – which come with convenient pockets – make this a fashion-forward choice.
$269 (top) and $299 (pants), from B1-41 Takashimaya Shopping Centre
This silky shirt-and-pants combination is an elegant take on the pyjama look. The wildflower print on a starkly white background make one think of sprouting blooms on a snow-covered patch of ground.
$290 (top) and $310 (shorts), from 03-17 Ion Orchard
Polka dots are a classic print and, when rendered in black and white, immediately elevate a youthful shell-and-shorts set. Worn with red lipstick, this look calls to mind a 1940s sort of bombshell beauty.
$850 (blazer) and $620 (pants), From 03-27 Ion Orchard
Preppy and bold are the words which come to mind with this blazer-and-pants combination. An almost photographic print of red, hot pink and pink roses covers the entire outfit, with a hint of green grass peeking through.
$31.90 (top) and $39.90 (skirt), from www.zalora.sg
This matching set is a throwback to the past in the best way possible. The full skirt and boxy top are party-perfect with the shiny satin-like fabric. The vibrant teal colour gives the whole look a refreshing update.
$290 (top) and $360 (skirt), from 02-49 Paragon
Large close-ups of florals in this elegant set evoke the art of the late American artist Georgia O’Keeffe. The graphic yellow and blue are strong statements on their own, but pack an especially powerful punch when combined.
$225 (top) and $349 (skirt), from B1-22 Ion Orchard
Purple tulips in various stages of bloom dot a pale-pink background in this classic sweater-and-skirt look.
$116 (top) and $109 (skirt)
An unusual botanical leaf print, mixed with a jumble of colours, spells sartorial cool in this matching set. The wrap-style top with a cheeky cut-out and the A-line mini make for a modern and sporty take on the trend.