Outfit Formula: The Modern Twinset

Here is my secret to getting through the winter months with ease and style – may I present the “modern twinset”. Longtime readers will know this has been a favorite winter outfit formula since I started my blog in San Francisco, but that’s the great thing about creating a timeless wardrobe, you can reach for the same pieces (and same tricks!) year after year. 

You likely know what a twinset is – a two piece sweater composed of a cardigan and sleeveless shell in a matching color or pattern. And while true twinsets are a little too Emily Gilmore these days, you can still achieve the polish and elegance of the look with a modern adaptation – namely pairing a sweater and a coat in the same hue. Similar to matching your shoes and handbag, this trick instantly pulls together your look and is nice to have on standby for those days when you just don’t know what to wear. 

Now in my 3rd trimester, it’s increasingly difficult to feel put together, but the modern twinset still does the trick. I absolutely love this exact combination of the J.Crew Warwick Topcoat and J.Crew’s Supersoft Yarn Mockneck (only $50, I also bought in red!) The heathered grays of each piece are a perfect match, and I popped on this super affordable chunky necklace to brighten the look and play off the coat’s cold buttons. So chic! I’ve found crewneck, mockneck or turtleneck sweaters are the best options for the modern twinset look, but you can also opt for a sweater dress and coat in the same color, which will only up the elegance! But what to wear on the bottom? The beauty of the modern twinset is it gives you a lot of flexibility. Pair the modern twinset with jeans and boots, or black cropped trousers (or a slip skirt!) and heels.

So with the holiday sales going strong, I’d suggest doing a quick inventory of your coat collection and seeing if any of them need a sweater to match. (Or maybe you like the idea and want to invest in multiple “modern twinset” looks!) Below are a few favorite coat + sweater combos in solids or with a hint of pattern (or sparkle!) to help you get started. 

OUTFIT DETAILS:

J.Crew Wool Topcoat (on major sale!) 

J.Crew SuperSoft Yarn Mockneck (only $50!) 

J.Crew Gold Necklace

Paige Maternity Jeans (true to size) 

Ralph Lauren RL50 Bag

Sarah Flint Riding Boots c/o (only $487 with code “EARLYSTACIE!”) 

GRAY MODERN TWINSET

NAVY MODERN TWINSET

TAN MODERN TWINSET

BLACK MODERN TWINSET