This Grandma-Approved Fashion Trend Is Finally Popular Again

Blame it on Katie Holmes's bra, or my obsession with The Golden Girls, but for the past few months, I've been into a trend I never expected to see in my closet: matching sweater sets. I'm talking full, ladylike, knit cardigan-and-top pairings, which were everywhere in '90s and popular in the '50s, too. It's basically an outfit I would see my grandmas wear while growing up; they'd break out a set for graduation, styling it with creamy trousers and a pair loafers, or buy one with sequins ahead of someone's wedding.

And now, I'm finally admitting that these ladies definitely knew what was up.

Of course, my newfound love of sweater sets isn't too surprising. I love all things easy and comfy, but still want to appear like I put in some effort, and this trend solves that problem. It also combines two things that have grown in popularity over the past year, cardigans and monochromatic outfits, and on top of Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner being fans, Zara, Mango, and ASOS currently sell updated versions for under $100.

After a tweet went viral last week poking fun at sweater sets, I felt inspired to defend this two-for-one look. There's plenty of proof that it's cool again, and it's time for more people to get on board (and for me to give my grandmas some credit).

It's not too surprising that this trend was on Chanel's spring 2020 runway. It's both classic and feminine, which are two things the fashion house does very well.

Kendall Jenner was an early adopter of the new sweater set trend, stepping out in a purple pairing back in 2019. But, Hailey Bieber wasn't too far behind. The model wore an oversized version later that same year, which included a long, robe-like duster and also matched her pants.

The good news about sweater sets is that you can wear them with any type of bottoms, whether your go-to is jeans, khakis, shorts, or a skirt.

While designers and fast fashion stores sell newer, modernized sets (ex: cropped or with eye-catching details), you can also find vintage and sustainable options by searching on Etsy.

If your set is printed, dare to have a little fun by mixing it with a bottom with a similar pattern.

Take things up a notch by skipping the shirt and going for a dress with a matching sweater. It's only a matter of time before more of those begin popping up, too.

The sexier version of a twin set is one that contains a bralette instead of short-sleeves or a tank. It's perfect for warmer days or when you want to show off a little skin.

If you're unsure about committing to this trend, take it slow and make your own pairing. You can easily experiment by styling a sweater or blazer with a top of a similar color underneath.