My Friend Gave Me a Strict Budget to Update Her Spring Wardrobe—9 Zara, H&M and COS Items I Chose
From chic spring jackets to linen dresses, shop the best Zara, H&M and COS buys here.
There’s something about a new season that makes us want to completely reset our wardrobes. While a full overhaul isn’t exactly the most practical—or sustainable—approach, as a shopping editor of six years, I can tell you it only takes a few well-chosen updates to make everything feel new again. So, when my best friend asked me for the pieces that would instantly refresh her spring wardrobe, I knew exactly where to start: the new-in sections at Zara, H&M and COS.
Each brand brings something different to the table. Zara excels at directional pieces—think standout jackets, effortless denim and a seriously strong sandal line-up. H&M is my go-to for pretty spring dresses, easy linen and those elevated basics that pull everything together. COS, meanwhile, consistently delivers on sharp tailoring, clean shirting and premium-feeling denim that rivals designer buys.
Scroll on for the best Zara, H&M and COS pieces to give your wardrobe a fresh spring update.
Best Zara, H&M and COS Buys
Embroidered blouses will forever have a spot in my warm-weather wardrobe. Just add denim and ballet flats for the perfect spring look.
Wrap blazers are the twist on tailoring I can't get enough of.
I'll be wearing white trousers to the office from now until October.
Such a sophisticated, expensive-looking spring jacket.
The prettiest spring dress I've seen so far this year.
COS' best-selling Reprise jeans are the best straight-leg jeans I've eve tried.
I own these and can attest: they're the most comfortable flats I've ever tried.
The perfect lightweight knit that will transition your wardrobe beautifully.
A cross between jeans and tailoring that feels so sophisticated.
You can team this with denim and flip-flops or tailoring and loafers, depending on the occasion.
This looks just like a designer style I've been eyeing for months.
A timeless jacket you'll wear until summer, and again once the leaves start to fall.
These are selling quick.
The broderie anglaise trend has graduated from shirts to skirts this season.
This season, it's all about the cape blouse.
Polka-dot dresses are my favourite spring trend.
A classic best-seller for a reason.
This is so elegant.
Lace-trimmed slip skirts were a big trend last year, and I predict a second revival this season.
A fun twist on classic tailoring.
Butter yellow jeans are everywhere right now.
A drawstring jacket with a slight funnel-neck that feels very 2026.
This feels very Kate Middleton-coded.
It's almost linen shirt season...
Pink shirts are big for 2026.
Satin trousers are the elevated style that will make every outfit look expensive this spring.
