Why I’m Swapping Gowns For Matching Skirt Sets

Oscar-worthy style that works just as well for a daytime outing.

POSTED 31.03.26 09:08 BY GRETCHEN DEUTSCH

While the designer gowns sent down the Oscars red carpet this year were on a different level entirely, the two standout looks weren’t gowns at all–they came in the form of understated and chic two-piece sets worn by Gracie Abrams and Bella Hadid.

As much as I loved the spectacular array of dresses this year, the two matching maxi skirt sets, styled with wraparound scarves, were easily the coolest looks on the carpet.

Abrams’ Chanel ensemble featured a navy sequin crop top, seamlessly paired with a coordinating maxi skirt and dainty jewels. Meanwhile, Hadid did Prada proud in an off-white silk halter set from the house. Each look revealed a peek of midriff—just enough to still feel Oscar-worthy.

The Oscars have always been about watching stars in breathtaking gowns we could never realistically wear, but these matching sets felt refreshingly relatable. Not something I’d wear on a typical day, but exactly what I’d reach for for a formal event with a slightly more relaxed dress code. I’m starting to wonder: is the matching set the new ball gown?

Whether it’s an Oscar-level event or a daytime brunch, I’m ditching maxi dresses and reaching for a skirt set instead. There’s something inherently more styled—and a little more unexpected—about a set, balancing the structure of the top with the movement of the skirt.

Versatile, elevated, and effortless, the skirt set is taking the place of the maxi dress in my closet. Although I don’t see myself at a black-tie, ball gown event anytime soon, the beauty of the matching set is that it feels just as appropriate for both formal occasions as it does something more casual.

If you’re ready to trade in your go-to maxi dress, my FizzyPicks are full of skirt sets that make getting dressed feel just a little more intentional—and a lot more fun.

Aubrey Skirt Cherry Red

SASHA THERESE
Aubrey Skirt
$86

Why I’m Swapping Gowns For Matching Skirt Sets

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