Every Summer, Stylish Women Wear Elegant Basics From This High Street Brand—9 Chic Staples Worth Knowing
Fashion people know that COS does the best basics on the high street. From light linens to expert tailoring, explore the best summer staples below.
At last, we’ve had the first glimpse of summer weather, and it's time to see if our wardrobes can keep up with the sky-high temperatures. Looking chic on the hottest days of the year may feel like a huge task, but as a shopping editor, I can share that the trick all stylish people rely on is a great set of basics.
The basics are what my great summer wardrobe is built upon, with a few adjustments here and there to restyle and renew it throughout the season. The perfect tank top is paired up with languid trousers, then a floaty skirt, and next polished shorts, whilst the floaty dress I depend upon will see me through park picnics, trips abroad and sweltering office commutes. I've already tracked down the most worthwhile luxury basics to invest in, and now I'm looking for the most expensive-looking styles on the high street. Naturally, I turned to COS.
Florrie wears the COS Embroidered Pima Cotton Midi Dress (£119)
Of all the high street brands, COS has made a name for itself through considered designs, high-quality fabrics and contemporary classics. Ask around, and most fashion people will point you towards COS if you ask where to find the best white T-shirt, the most coveted tailored trousers or elegant summer dresses. The pieces are praised for their style and anti-trend credentials, which see the pieces restyled year after year.
Blending classic designs with contemporary details and modern silhouettes with refined cuts, the brand's offerings are consistently coveted by the most stylish people and hold their place in great wardrobes years after purchase. For summer 2026, I'm drawn to the construction of COS's best pieces, from precise pleating to intricate ruching that are elevating the shapes of trousers, dresses and simple tops. Refined palettes of cream, soft brown and pale pink instantly freshen up the pieces for the new season, and altogether they form a chic, ready-made capsule wardrobe.
Shop the 9 Best COS Summer Basics
It's amazing how effective a neckline update can be.
Throw this dress on with simple sandals and head straight into the sunshine.
The shape of these trousers is exquisite—they'll sell out fast.
These look both comfortable and refined.
I've tried this dress on and can confirm its even better in person.
A simple piece to depend upon year after year.
COS is known for its excellent tailoring.
This is currently at the top of my wish list.
Who knew gathered fabrics could be so effective.
Shop More COS Summer Basics
Every stylish person I know depends on the COS Clean Cut T-shirt.
This also comes in classic black.
No matter the season, no matter the year, you'll find a way to wear a great linen shirt.
The shape of these trousers has put them firmly on my wish list.
This shade is everything!
COS's best-selling clutch now comes in a raffia form.
This easy playsuit will feel fresh every single time you wear it.
A soft butter yellow to celebrate the sunshine.
Make a statement this summer.
The v-neck is a nice twist on the tank top.
I'm turning to shorts every time the sun comes out.
I'm wearing this exact dress above.
The hatlerneck back is such a standout.
If you told me this was designer, I'd believe you.
I live in white trousers every single summer.
The high neck and sleek length means you can restyle this dress from work to weekend.
