It's Officially Hot—19 Zara, COS and Reformation Dresses My Chic Friends Are Quietly Obsessed With
From throw-on-and-go linen dress to polka-dot minis, these are the most elegant Zara, COS and Reformation dresses to shop now.
When I checked the weather forecast over the weekend and saw that the UK was set for a “heatwave” this week, I immediately noticed a gap in my wardrobe. Between chunky cashmere knits and thermal layers, my lighter spring pieces felt noticeably lacking—especially in the dress department. Naturally, this called for a virtual shopping trip. My first ports of call? Zara, COS and Reformation.
Why do I need three brands to fulfil all my dress shopping needs? Because each brand brings something entirely different to the table, and together, they cover every dress need imaginable. Zara is my go-to for affordable, trend-led styles. Think lace detailing, polka dots, puff sleeves and cinched waists, the kind of easy, throw-on dresses that work just as well for everyday wear as they do for holidays. COS, on the other hand, leans into minimalism with a sculptural edge. Its dresses feel refined and quietly luxurious, with a focus on quality and timeless silhouettes I know I’ll reach for year after year.
And then there’s Reformation. When the occasion calls for something a little more elevated, whether it’s a wedding, a party or simply a standout moment, Ref is always my first stop. Its dresses strike that perfect balance between statement and re-wearability.
Keep scrolling to shop the best dresses from Zara, COS and Reformation below.
Shop The Best Zara, COS and Reformation Dresses

Marina Avraam is Senior Shopping Editor at Who What Wear UK, where she expertly navigates Zara, H&M, Toteme and Net-a-Porter (to name but a few) on a daily basis to unearth the most worthwhile pieces, while valiantly resisting the urge to add every single one to her basket. At Who What Wear, Marina is committed to curating a shopping experience that feels both aspirational and intentional, guiding readers to items—both affordable and investment—that will genuinely benefit their wardrobes.