Fashion writer praises Aligne co-ord as ‘the most versatile set in my wardrobe’

Bethan Shufflebotham thinks denim co-ord is a wardrobe essential for any season. Here’s how to style it…

Whenever fashion writer Bethan Shufflebotham is contemplating a new buy, she always tries to put a little more thought into her wardrobe investments, asking herself one key question: can it be styled at least three ways?

While browsing Aligne’s fresh denim pieces, the indigo studded co-ord instantly caught her eye. A set with seemingly limitless outfit combinations, the collection quickly became a must-have new addition to Bethan’s wardrobe.

Aligne’s designs are instantly recognisable, which is likely why the brand is favoured by celebrities including Rochelle Humes and Sienna Miller. Founded in 2019, the female-led label is known for powerful, structured silhouettes softened with a feminine twist.

Like many other fashionistas, Bethan owns plenty of denim jackets -from an oversized vintage Levi’s to a lightweight Joanie shacket – but nothing quite like Aligne’s Fog Studded Denim Shirt. She explained: “Coming in a dark denim wash, the shirt is far more elevated than any of my other pieces, with an almost tailored feel to it.”

She continued: “The fabric, made from 100% organic cotton, is rigid but not stiff, ensuring the top holds its structure and hangs beautifully. It has a boxy fit, but doesn’t look oversized and still gives some shape at the waist. I initially thought I’d have been better sizing down, but when my usual size arrived, it was actually spot on.”

Bethan believes that what really sets the shirt apart is its attention to detail, from the long, deep cuffed sleeves, to the front pleating and studded embellishments. Coming in at £119, it’s definitely a more premium purchase, and unfortunately, the set doesn’t yet have any shopper reviews, which some may prefer when making a pricier purchase to make a more informed decision.

For those seeking a similar look without the designer price tag, M&S’s Denim Studded Shacket is a standout option, now £48 down from £60. Part of the Per Una collection, it’s crafted in a regular fit with a crisp collar, metal button fastenings, and two chest patch pockets that give it a subtle utility edge.

On the higher-end side, AllSaints’ Alba Studded Oversized Denim Shirt is currently on sale, though stock is moving quickly. Originally £219, it dropped to £131, with an extra 30% off bringing the final price to £91.70.

Speaking about the alternative options, Bethan said: “Both of these alternatives come in a matching set with coordinating jeans, but I often find jeans boring and frankly, I’ve far too many pairs and try to avoid buying more. Instead, the Aligne shirt is designed to pair seamlessly with the Hadley Studded Denim Mini Skirt, £89.”

The skirt is made in the same organic cotton fabric with side seam silver-studded detailing. Bethan said: “I must admit, I wear gold jewellery most of the time so I feared the hardware would clash, but the mixed metal vibe makes for a more interesting outfit.

“Together, the co-ord is a real headturner while remaining totally ‘I just threw these on because they match’ effortless. Paired with knee boots and a black bag, it’s the ultimate day drinks or girly brunch look.”

The shirt works equally well buttoned up or left open over a white tee, creating a relaxed yet effortlessly chic look. Pairing it with a splash of colour or a bold print adds a playful twist to the outfit.

Summing up her satisfaction with the new denim addition, fashion fan Bethan explained: “As the days turn colder, the shirt looks great with jeans, such as my cream striped wide legs from River Island, trainers and a red neck scarf. This is an outfit I’m actually packing to take on holiday to Poland this month, ideal for chillier days as you can even add a trench over the top and the trainers keep things casual.

“But it’s not just the shirt that can be worn on repeat – the skirt is equally as versatile. I teamed it with the same white shirt as above, my leopard print gilet and loafers for an upgrade on wardrobe basics.”

So for those in search of some capsule wardrobe essentials that work as well together as they do separately, this Aligne co-ord is one that can be worn repeatedly, and requires minimal effort to style as it does all the hard work for you.