Despite forging a career for myself in fashion, I secretly find autumn a really difficult time to dress for. A dress girl at heart, I love how summer lends itself to floaty, oversized pieces that I just have to slip on with sandals and I’m set. I find so much joy in dressing for warmer months, and shopping is something I particularly relish between May and September. But when autumn hits, the nerves creep in, and I start to lose my confidence when it comes to new-season clothes. To combat this, there is one thing I always rely on as the leaves start to brown and the days get darker, and that is a solid bank of timeless, stylish and easy outfits that I feel good in. And for this, I head to the high street.
One of my favourite destinations for this type of shopping is COS. Full of elevated basics that always impress, the brand has everything from designer-style outerwear to mix-and-match tailoring and leather handbags to expensive-looking earrings. To prove it’s home to myriad classic autumnal hits, I’ve put together five chic ensembles that will serve you—and me—well as we move through the seasons. And if you’re just looking for inspiration as to what to update your wardrobe with this year, consider this your guide.
Scroll down to discover my five go-to autumn COS outfits as well as all the pieces you need to help re-create them.
1. FOR RUNNING WEEKEND ERRANDS
Style Notes: I love this easy autumnal look. Perfect for running errands at the weekend or a weekday spent working from home, it pairs an on-trend striped knit with simple straight-leg jeans, chic flats and a timeless trench. A winning combo.
Shop the look:
Who can resist a striped knit? This cashmere iteration will last you for years.
COS is one of my go-to destinations for trenches. I love the oversized collar and pockets on this utility style.
Straight-leg jeans are wardrobe staples, and this darker-wash denim is a great choice if you're not a fan of black.
Hair claws are so popular right now. I love the iridescent pearl shade of this oversized one.
Ballet flats are having a moment. The square-toe on this pair gives them an extra-cool touch.
2. FOR A SMART DINNER
Style Notes: Leather midi skirts are so stylish. Opt for luxe olive green, and sandwich it between sleek black separates. This cape-sleeve top will help balance out the a-line shape of the skirt, while knee-high boots add height. Accessorize with gold jewellery to complete the look.
Shop the look:
Wear this pleated blouse with a skirt as above or tuck into jeans and trousers.
This is an investment piece but one that will serve you well. I'll be wearing mine with blouses, cardigans, shirts and more.
Chunky link-style necklaces are an easy way to modernise a look.
There are so many knee-high boots out there right now, but this pair is one of the best thanks to its roomy shape and chunky block heel.
3. FOR THE OFFICE TO AFTER-WORK DRINKS
Style Notes: The whole Who What Wear team is in agreement: Three-piece suits are just so cool. Add statement heels or swap in trainers for a more casual take.
Shop the look:
One of the most popular pieces on my Instagram feed right now, a waistcoat will work hard for you well into autumn, winter and beyond.
Add the matching blazer to really nail that relaxed-tailoring vibe…
…before completing the trio with the oversized trousers.
Dainty rings are out, and chunky styles are in. Stack them high for real effect.
You can never go wrong with a pair of toe-thong sandals. This white pair looks great with trousers and jeans as well as midi dresses.
4. FOR A COUNTRY ESCAPE
Style Notes: COS is one of my favourite high-street destinations for quality outerwear. Pair this designer-style padded coat with leggings, chunky boots and a relaxed knit before adding a crossbody bag and a bright scarf for a pop of colour.
Shop the look:
Grey knitwear is so elegant. This half-zip style can be worn with jeans, leather trousers or over dresses to give the illusion of a two-piece.
A designer-style coat for less than £150? I'm sold.
An essential for colder months, leggings were having a moment last year, and they're back again for this season. Tuck them into boots, and you're set.
Practical and stylish, this bag is a favourite among editors and influencers alike right now.
Add a pop of colour to your autumn look with fun accessories like this raspberry pink (hello, Barbiecore) scarf.
If you're looking for a new pair of chunky boots, this is it.
5. FOR DATE NIGHT
Style Notes: This is such a great date-night look. The gathered detail and low back on this chiffon maxi dress keep it looking modern, while heeled mules and dainty jewellery help add an evening-appropriate touch.
I just love the back of this dress, which helps give it a modern touch. Wear it like this, or switch it round and have the gathering at the front.
These asymmetric earrings are made from recycled glass, so you can be sure they're stylish and sustainable.
Wear with dresses, T-shirts, knitwear and more.
A pair of leather mules will go with just about everything in your wardrobe and is a comfier alternative to stilettos or court shoes.
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