MUST-MAKE SUMMER SETS

There's no denying that the popularity of co-ords and sets is on the rise. Whether browsing online clothing retailers or popping into high street shops, you are practically tripping over this trend. 

Co-ords work really hard in your wardrobe, especially when you pack a limited selection of clothes for a summer holiday. They can be worn together or styled with other pieces you own to create a multitude of looks. They are quite simply a summer essential.

Of course, you can sew a set from any top and bottom pattern you already have in your stash (so I recommend having a rummage to see what you come up with), but I searched the site to find the best sewing pattern sets that give you a perfectly co-ordinated outfit from just one purchase.

I cannot get over how good the options are. Sweet short and top pairings, chic skirt and top sets, elegant trouser and top co-ords, there is a lot to love. Now, let's move on to the good stuff - those must-make summer sets.

Elbe Textiles Carey Top and Skirt

Elbe Textiles just joined The Fold Line family, and Carey's arrival was part of the reason I decided to push the button on this blog post. It's good, isn't it? The panels and seam lines make this pattern very intriguing and add a flourish to the minimalist silhouette. It's perfect for dressing up to attend summer events, while the skirt will stay in your wardrobe all season long (designer Lauren says it's her current go-to piece!).

Best for: Summer events

Sizing: A – N (approx. UK 6 – 32). This pattern has two cup size options: a B cup and a C/D cup

Sewing level: Intermediate

Silversaga Patterns Lea Tank, Top, Pants & Skirt

Keen to include this new pattern on the list, I eagerly waited for its release to complete the round-up. It literally gives you all the elements you could possibly want to mix and match for the ultimate summer set. The pattern includes a tank, top, skirt and trousers. That's bang for your buck! Designed to be worn together or as separate pieces, Lea offers an easy silhouette with thoughtful shaping and clean finishes. It will be easy to sew, easy to wear, and it is just about all your summer wardrobe needs!

Best for: Summer wardrobe builder

Sizing: EU 34 – 54 (approx. UK 6/8 – 26/28). Both tops are drafted with separate B-cup and D-cup bodices

Sewing level: Confident beginner

Tilly and the Buttons Esti Co-ord

This sweet set is ideal for warm-weather dressing and summer getaways. Simple to sew and incredibly versatile, this top-and-trouser co-ord makes an instant outfit, staple separates for layering, or even a chic faux jumpsuit. It's a great pattern to choose if you are new to sewing or want something speedy to make for a holiday.

Best for: Novice sewers or a quick sew

Sizing: UK 6 – 34

Sewing level: Confident beginner

Matchy Matchy High Tide Set

This keeps popping onto my radar as the blouse is very similar to a currently trending style (that costs a pretty penny). The vintage-inspired top-and-shorts set is breezy and chic, with just the right amount of girlie. The shorts' flowy fit almost gives the appearance of a skirt, but delivers the comfort and ease of shorts. You can sew the blouse with or without a collar, so it's a versatile design.

If you like this, I'd also recommend checking out the Ruffle Brunch Set.

Best for: Vintage vibes

Sizing: XXS – 6XL (approx. UK 6 – 38)

Sewing level: Confident beginner (View A) / Intermediate (View B)

Friday Pattern Company Saguaro Set

This cult sewing pattern turned many of us onto co-ords when it was released in 2022. The Saguaro Set is a two-piece woven set made up of elastic waistband pants and a pullover top. This is the perfect outfit for road trips through the desert, sunset walks on the beach, or dancing the night away. You can wear the top forwards or backwards.

If you like this, check out the Saturday Skirt Set.

Best for: Day-to-night summer dressing

Sizing: XS – 7X (approx. UK 6 – 34)

Sewing level: Confident beginners

Sew Bake Make Sourdough Set

This bundle includes both the Sourdough Top and the Sourdough Pants and Shorts patterns, with a 25% saving vs buying them individually. The top features a high boat neckline and multiple options. The bottoms are wide-leg, elastic waist pants and shorts have lots of options and fun style details. Sew them in the same fabric for an on-trend set.

You can also buy the Sourdough Top and the Sourdough Pants and Shorts patterns separately.

Best for: Easy-to-sew summer staple

Sizing: 00 – 34 (approx. UK 6 – 36)

Sewing level: Confident beginner

Pauline Alice Nautic Set

Fun, versatile and chic, this three-piece set is good value for money. Sew a cute sailor-collared blouse, a skirt for summer layering or sweet summer shorts. Or, even better, sew a cute nautical pyjama set. You can’t go wrong. Oh, and at £8.50 for the PDF, it won’t break the bank either!

Best for: Nautical chic

Sizing: 34 – 52 (approx. UK 6 – 22)

Sewing level: Confident beginner

Pattern Fantastique Harmonic Set

This duo is set to flex your sewing muscles, imparting new skills along the way. The Harmonic Set is a tribute to flag symbology and 70s disco glam. The top features a circular keyhole neckline and balloon sleeve, plus an optional wave detail and contrast external neck facing. Pair the top with the skirt for a twinning wave hem. The deep faux-shirred waistband offers a perfect mid-hip fit and includes pockets.

The Harmonic Set can be made with or without the wave feature, and cutting layouts are included for both options.

Best for: Structural interest

Sizing: UK 6 – 30

Sewing level: Intermediate / Advanced

Atelier Jupe Sophie Top and Ellis Shorts

This charming 2-in-1 pattern creates a sweet set with vintage vibes. If you prefer your separates to look different and aren't planning on them matching, this is a good design to go for as the components require different fabric types. Both feature simple details that elevate the pieces and offer the polish every stylish wardrobe requires.

Best for: Standalone separates

Sizing: EU 34 – 52 (approx. UK 8/10 – 24/26)

Sewing level: Confident beginner / Intermediate

Chalk and Notch Hayes Dress and Two-Piece Set

If you love wearing dresses in the summer, this set might be the one for you, as you get a dress with the pattern, but also have the option to sew a dress-like set. The bodice features cap sleeves and a front neckline slit. The panelled skirt has an A-line shape with in-seam pockets. Make your set in matching fabrics to wear as a faux-dress, or make them in different fabrics if you prefer.

Best for: Boho style

Sizing: US 0 – 30 (approx. UK 8 – 30) with A/B and C/D bust cup options

Sewing level: Confident beginner

So, will you be adding a summer set to your sewing list? I am very tempted!