Latest from Who What Wear in Cos

If You Know You Know: These 9 Specific Labor Day Sales Are The Only Ones Worth Shopping

chinazor.offor@futurenet.com (Chinazor "Chichi" Offor) — Sat, 05 Sep 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Labor Day weekend is officially here. If you're like us editors here at WWW, you've been gearing up for one of the biggest shopping sales holidays of the year. Many top-tier retailers are heavily discounting a range of chic fashion finds. Since these huge retail moments can be a bit overwhelming, I've highlighted a handful of must-shop sales below.

Yes, you read that correctly. I've narrowed down all the sales to a handful of the best of the best and included all the details along with a few shopping recommendations from each retail website. Ahead shop picks from J. Crew, Madewell, Nordstrom, Anthropologie, and so many more. Keep scrolling to uncover the best Labor Day weekend fashion deals today.

Shop the Best Labor Day 2026 Sales

Nordstrom

Date: 9/3-9/7
Details: The summer end-of-season clearance sale is here, and shoppers can take up to 50% off.

Nordstrom

Long Leather Jacket

adidas

Taekwondo Mei Ballet Flat

STAUD

Short Sleeve Wells Dress

J.Crew

Date: 9/3-9/7
Details: Take 40% off regular-priced items and an extra 40% off sale items.

J.Crew

Soho Car Coat in Plaid Double-Faced Cotton

J.Crew

Lace Fairfax Skirt

J.Crew

Berkeley Small Shoulder Bag in Suede

Madewell

Dates: 8/28-9/8
Details: Enjoy up to 50% Off Sale During the Labor Day Event. Use Code LONGWEEKEND

Madewell

Russell Oval Sunglasses

Madewell

The Dean Easy Straight Jean in Airy Denim

Madewell

The Dolli Glove Loafer

Anthropologie

Date: 9/2–9/7
Details: Take up to 40% off clothing and accessories, and take up to 40% off home — including furniture, décor, candles, bedding, and more.

Anthropologie

Fiona Beaded Bag: Geometric Edition

Anthropologie

By Anthropologie Silken Collared Blouse

Anthropologie

Bhldn Halter-Neck Satin Fit-And-Flare Maxi Dress

Mango

Date: 9/2-9/7
Details: 20% off when you spend $230

MANGO

Checked Midi Skirt - Women | Mango Usa

MANGO

Turtleneck Wrap Dress - Women | Mango Usa

MANGO

Leather Jacket With Funnel Neck - Women | Mango Usa

COS

Date: 9/3-9/7
Details: Take 30% off selected pieces.

COS

Folded Off-The-Shoulder Top

COS

Pintucked Denim Culottes

COS

Fluid Cotton Balloon Pants

COS

Rounded Short Trench Coat

Uniqlo

Date: 9/4-9/10
Details: Labor Day Sale

Uniqlo

Fleece Short Jacket

Uniqlo

Mini T-Shirt (raglan, Long Sleeve)

Uniqlo

Cotton Volume Easy Trousers

Gap

Date: 9/2-9/8
Details: 40–60% Off Select Styles

Gap

Cashsoft Oversized Chunky Cardigan

Gap

High Rise Crop Barrel Jeans

Gap

Scoop-Neck Lace-Trim Tiered Maxi Dress

Old Navy

Date: 9/3-/7
Details: Shop 50% off all jeans, tees, sweatshirts, and hoodies

Old Navy

Mid-Rise Wow Baggy Wide-Leg Jeans

Old Navy

Hug Double-Layer Boat-Neck Top

Old Navy

Sosoft Crew-Neck Cardigan Sweater

I'm Giving the Fashion People What They Want—Stylish Fall Finds From COS, Zara, J.Crew, and Reformation

Bobby Schuessler — Fri, 04 Sep 2026 10:00:00 +0000

I'm going to keep this intro short and sweet. To sum it up, I'm giving fashion people (hey there) what they want with a roundup of fashionable fall finds. I focused on stylish items from four retailers many of us shop at: COS, Zara, J.Crew, and Reformation.

As a preview, you'll spot some of my favorite sweaters so far this season, including dreamy cashmere styles; cool jackets, like funnel-neck silhouettes; and other basics to mix and match. Okay, I'll leave it at that so we can get to the shopping. Enjoy.

COS

Rounded Cashmere Crew-Neck Jumper

I own this sweater, and I love the shape, the color, and how soft the cashmere is.

COS

Mock-Neck Cotton Trench Coat

A+ trench.

COS

Brushed-Cotton Long-Sleeved T-Shirt

A long-sleeve tee is simple yet chic.

COS

Leather Moccasin Loafers

You'll get a lot of wear out of these loafers.

COS

Merino Wool Layered V-Neck Sweater

Purple is a key color for fall 2026.

COS

Montmartre Bowling Bag

Hi, cute bag.

COS

Stud-Detail Cropped Linen Blazer

Talk about elegant.

Zara

ZARA

Metallic Zipper Sweatshirt

A zippered sweatshirt or sweater is a 2026 staple.

ZARA

High-Neck Jacket

The color! The high neck!

ZARA

Satin Effect Barrel Pants

Style these pants with your favorite sweater.

ZARA

Soft-Knit Jumper

Ahem, like this one.

ZARA

Mid-Rise Relaxed Ankle Jeans

Nice wash.

ZARA

Combined Sneakers

Cool sneakers.

ZARA

Low-Rise Flare Pants

Polished.

J.Crew

Lace Fairfax Skirt

Such a pretty skirt.

J.Crew

Tiny Rollneck in Rugby Stripe

The new Rollneck!

J.Crew

Luna Pant in Lightweight Corduroy

The lightweight corduroy is perfect for the season.

j.crew

Rollneck Sweater

Can't go wrong.

J.Crew

Verona Lace-Up Flats in Eel-Embossed Leather

Yes to this shape.

J.Crew

Arched Trouser in Lightspun Wool Blend

Versatile.

J.Crew

Boyfriend Jersey Relaxed Cropped T-Shirt in Stripe

Love this tee.

Reformation

Calista Flat

Hello, compliments.

Reformation

Santino Knit Top

Really nice basic.

Reformation

Miles Stretch Mid Rise Straight Leg Jeans

Modern cut.

Reformation

Jonie Cashmere Oversized Scoop Neck

You just may want to live in this sweater.

Reformation

Aven Satin Pant

All about balloon pants.

Reformation

Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan

Color!

Reformation

Laura Knit Dress

Always yes to a Ref dress.

Fashion Editors Know These 3 Retailers Make the Best Sweaters

audry.hiaoui@futurenet.com (Audry Hiaoui) — Sun, 30 Aug 2026 12:00:00 +0000

If I had to synthesize where our editors get their fall sweaters, three retailers immediately come to mind, the first being J.Crew. In general, J.Crew is known for its expensive-looking basics, and with a dedicated section called The Cashmere Shop that has under-$200 knitwear. Then there's the popular rollneck sweaters, which I wore on repeat last year, and my colleagues Eliza Huber, Bobby Schuessler, and Lauren Eggertsen also own—a fall wardrobe staple.

Another favorite of Schuessler and Ana Escalante is COS, which has a sweater that went viral for being compared to the cult-favorite Ophelia from The Row. Now, many of us are eyeing its V-neck sweater in the biggest color trend of fall 2026: royal purple.

And then there's Nordstrom, which has its own in-house cashmere line, all under $200. Below, shop sweaters from each retailer for the season ahead.

J.Crew

Perfect Cashmere Cable-Knit Crewneck

J.Crew

2025 Rollneck Sweater

J.Crew

Tiny Rollneck

J.Crew

Rollneck Reversible Cardigan

J.Crew

Cashmere Classic-Fit Crewneck Sweater

J.Crew

Featherweight Cashmere Cardigan

J.Crew

Perfect Cashmere Cardigan

J.Crew

Cashmere High V-Neck Sweater

COS

Chunky Pure Cashmere Crew-Neck Sweater

COS

Merino Wool Layered V-Neck Sweater

COS

Merino Wool Mock-Neck Cardigan

COS

Rounded Cashmere Crew-Neck Jumper

COS

Merino Wool Polo Shirt

COS

Brushed-Cashmere Crew-Neck Cardigan

cos

Cashmere Crew-Neck Sweater

COS

Cable-Knit Cashmere Sweater

COS

Layered Shawl Merino-Cashmere Sweater

Nordstrom

Brushed Cashmere Cardigan

Nordstrom

Classic Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater

Nordstrom

Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan

Nordstrom

Crewneck Cashmere Sweater

Nordstrom

Short Sleeve Cashmere Sweater

Nordstrom

Cashmere Johnny Collar Short Sleeve Sweater

Nordstrom

V-Neck Cashmere Sweater

My 63-Year-Old Mom Knows What's Cool Before I Do—48 New Items She's Predicting Will Be It Buys

Nikki Chwatt — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Ask me where I got my interest in fashion from, and I'll tell you without hesitation: my mom.

When I was growing up, she worked in the fashion industry, doing everything from working on the retail floor selling clothes to e-commerce styling. I always looked up to her and thought that I'd be in the fashion space one day, helping people get dressed and sharing my thoughts on the need-to-know trends as well as the pieces actually worth investing in. But enough about me—back to my mom. After having those experiences and seeing a lot of trends come and go, it makes sense that she knows what's cool before I do.

Ahead of fall, I asked her to check out the new-arrivals pages of Who What Wear's favorite brands and retailers—like J.Crew, COS, Zara, Nordstrom, and Shopbop—to see what items stood out to her as having It potential. In a matter of just two hours, she delivered a list of products, ranging from the perfect pair of relaxed jeans to a gorgeous cinched-waist leather jacket. Not to be dramatic, but my jaw fell to the floor.

Keep scrolling to discover my mom's 47 chic finds that she's predicting all the cool fashion people will be wearing in the months ahead.

J.Crew

Tiny Rollneck

J.Crew's It sweater for fall 2026 just dropped, and I already got my hands on two colorways.

levi's

Loose Taper Jeans

These new Levi's jeans have that relaxed, vintage-like feel we all know and love, with an adjustable waist tab so you can achieve the perfect fit.

COS

Trullo Flap Bag

Hurry, this expensive-looking bag is back in stock—but not for long.

Gap

100% Cotton Authentic Raglan Big T-Shirt

My mom told me that the raglan tee isn't her style, but she knows that it will dominate this fall.

Zw Collection

Flowy Combined Skirt

So pretty.

Reformation

Pina Flat Sandal

Style with the above skirt or khaki trousers.

Madewell

The Chateau Mini Dress

Take your sleep dresses from summer to fall by adding socks and a pair of loafers.

Steve Madden

Ardyn Pointed Toe Pumps

The Row, who?

ZARA

Rectangular Sunglasses

These look almost identical to the viral Khaite x Oliver Peoples sunglasses.

Nordstrom

Cinch Waist Leather Jacket

Nordstrom is really stepping up its game for fall.

Massimo Dutti

Denim Capris

I tried these on in Spain, and now, I regret not buying them. They fit so well.

Reformation

Sofia East West Shoulder Bag

Obsessed.

LESET

Margo Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt

White T-shirts are classic, but gray ones feel far chicer right now.

Madewell

The Devon Pant

Who wouldn't want to wear elevated pajama-inspired pants?

alex mill

Prince Streets Flats

Royal purple is the top color trend to know for fall.

freja

Greta Tote

Just because this is canvas doesn't mean you can't wear it come September. In fact, it will feel chicer in the fall because it's unexpected.

Muse Assembly

Maggie Faux Leather Jacket in Ochre

I love the covered buttons.

FRAME

The Saturday Low-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans

My mom heard that these fit even better than the viral Frame Gray Jeans.

JENNIFER BEHR

Elaine Gold-Tone Amethyst Earrings

Another elegant purple item to consider.

Bibi Lou

Beaded Moccasin Mules

My mom has wanted the Miu Miu boat mules for a few months now, but she happily settled on this designer-passing pair.

Aritzia

Interlock Cotton Mobile Longsleeve

The simple long-sleeve shirt is the fashion-person basic that looks as good now as it will this fall.

ZARA

Cupro Blend Jacquard Shorts

I'd style these shorts in the fall with an oversize long-sleeve tee, a chunky sweater, or a white T-shirt and a long trench coat.

ZIMMERMANN

Atelier Velvet Mules

The color, the velvet, the wedge—perfection.

COS

Knotted Chain Necklace

I don't know if anyone else realized this, but this necklace looks just like that one that was all over Toteme's F/W 25 collection.

With Nothing Underneath

Bessette Top

I'd style this with linen pants, tailored trousers, Bermuda shorts, or lace-trimmed satin shorts.

Free People

Amelia Side-Tie Linen Pants

My mom wanted to gatekeep these, but she finally gave in to letting me share them. They're so cute.

Polo Ralph Lauren

Haircalf Crossbody Bag

Polo Ralph Lauren's best-selling bag now comes in calf hair.

Massimo Dutti

Linen-Blend Thin Strap Midi Dress

Thanks to Massimo Dutti, the perfect black dress now exists.

VALESQUE

Bundle Leather-Trimmed Velvet Clutch

This clutch will add just the right amount of texture to any simple denim outfit.

Side Eye New York

223 Butler St

Everyone from Kaia Gerber to Vittoria Ceretti is wearing these right now.

DÔEN

Elodine Top

Every fashion person on my Instagram feed is talking about this boho-chic blouse right now.

Reformation

Sandy Satin Short

Endless styling possibilities.

Sam Edelman

Emory Flat

Everyone needs a pair of eel-leather shoes.

LE BOP

Winnie Button Down Flannel in Burgundy Plaid

Not all plaid shirts are created equal. This one is particularly chic and feels very 2026.

Zw Collection

100% Leather Midi Skirt

Zara is killing it right now.

Ray-Ban

Original Wayfarer Classic

You heard it here first: Ray-Ban Wayfarers are back.

ZARA

Technical Fabric Hoodie Jacket

Add a pop of color to your rotation this fall with a sporty jacket.

Banana Republic

Low-Rise Relaxed Utility Pant

Cargo pants are about to be everywhere.

Polo Ralph Lauren

Chunky Fair Isle Scarf

My mom knows it's very early to be thinking about scarves, but she's anticipating this one will sell out before fall even begins.

Open Edit

Scoop Neck Stretch Cotton T-Shirt

Our readers can't stop buying this wardrobe staple.

Blazé Milano

Coci Plush Mini Skirt

Talk about a skirt that's worth the investment.

COS

Asymmetric Abstract Floral Earrings

These look so cool on.

Aritzia

The Nightingale Trench Coat

It's almost trench-coat season!

ALIGNE

Millicent Pants in Navy

Don't underestimate the power of navy trousers.

Banana Republic

Heritage Shoulder Bag

From the Prada Route to Louis Vuitton's new Carryall, bags with cargo pockets are trending.

THE FRANKIE SHOP

Onelle Belted Wool-Blend Short Coat

This jacket won't be in stock for much longer.

Still Here

Childhood Jeans in Milk

Why is no one talking about these perfect straight-leg jeans?

J.Crew

Verona Ballet Flats

Fashion insiders are very into high-vamp flats right now.

The Chicest Women I Know Shop at Zara, COS and Reformation—9 Rich-Looking Buys on Their Autumn Wish Lists

Marina Avraam — Fri, 28 Aug 2026 08:00:00 +0000

There are a handful of high-street and contemporary brands that can, quite frankly, get away with murder. And by murder, I mean creating pieces with all the polish and expensive-looking details of designer buys, sans the four-figure price tag. The three I return to again and again? Zara, COS and Reformation.

Zara has mastered elevated basics: cardigans updated with frog fastenings, cinched-waist shirts and barrel-leg denim that could easily pass for something pricier. COS, meanwhile, has perfected the kind of quiet restraint associated with The Row, from sculptural accessories and soft cashmere to beautifully cut tailoring. Then there's Reformation. The cult Jadey cashmere jumper and Clara cardigan are obvious standouts, alongside fluid satin trousers and perfectly cut straight-leg denim. Together, these three brands make building an expensive-looking autumn wardrobe remarkably easy.

Keep scrolling to shop the Zara, COS and Reformation autumn staples worth knowing about now.

Shop The Best Zara, COS and Reformation New-In

COS

Rounded Cashmere Crew-Neck Jumper

A cashmere jumper that feels like pure luxury. The ultimate investment piece for autumn/winter.

ZARA

Zw Collection Cape Trench Coat

Cape trench coats are about as elegant as it gets.

Reformation

Miles Stretch Mid Rise Straight Leg Jeans

There's something so French-coded about a pair of straight-leg jeans, and Reformation's Mila style tick every box.

COS

Funnel-Neck Cotton Trench Coat

The funnel-neck detail adds a contemporary twist to a classic.

Reformation

Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan

A best-seller every single year, the Clara cardigan is cult at this point.

COS

Chord Straight-Leg Jeans

These sell out every single year, and the indigo hue is perfect for the new season.

ZARA

Striped Puff Sleeve Shirt

This whole look is a yes from me.

COS

Slim Merino Wool Top

Layer under jumpers and jackets for extra protection against the elements.

COS

Pleated Wide-Leg Trousers

With perfectly placed pleats and an effortless wide-leg silhouette, this is the ultimate tailored trouser.

ZARA

Linen Blend Oversize Shirt With Frog Fastening

The sell-out frog-fastening blouse is back in stock.

Reformation

Jadey Cashmere Oversized V-Neck Sweater

V-neck jumpers are the chicest knitwear trend.

COS

Panelled Pointed Leather Wedge Ankle Boots

These look exactly like a designer pair I've been eyeing for months.

Reformation

Gale Satin Mid Rise Bias Pant

There's something so expensive-looking about satin trousers.

COS

Merino Wool Polo Shirt

So preppy chic.

COS

Leather Moccasin Loafers

These are very The Row-coded.

ZARA

Pleated Balloon Trousers

Tailoring—but cool.

COS

Swing Crossbody Bag - Leather

The viral cross-body bag is back in stock.

ZARA

Soft Knit Jumper

The perfect transitional knit.

ZARA

Z1975 High-Waist Barrel Seamed Jeans

Shopping Editor, Florrie owns these and I can confirm—they look so expensive.

ZARA

Zw Collection Wool Blend Tailored Bermuda Shorts

This whole look is my autumn/winter mood-board.

I Just Looked Through Thousands of New Arrivals—These Are the Fall 2026 Items I Highly Recommend

audry.hiaoui@futurenet.com (Audry Hiaoui) — Sun, 23 Aug 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Even though the official start of fall is on Tuesday, September 22, this year, back-to-school season always feels like the actual beginning of the season. With many brands and retailers releasing their fall 2026 collections, I decided to look through the new arrivals.

At COS, two on-trend items immediately caught my eye: satin ballet flats and a royal purple merino wool sweater. Over at Dôen, cozy knitwear and dainty dresses stood out, while Gap had wardrobe staples like classic button-down shirts (an item our editors have been wearing on repeat) and under-$100 sweaters. And Nordstrom had new flats from one of my all-time favorite shoe brands, Camper, alongside $98 satin pants and the Asics mules going viral on TikTok right now.

As for designer items, I want everything from Miu Miu’s fall 2026 collection, from knee-high boots to pencil skirts, and I also went through what's new at Prada, The Row, and Tory Burch.

Below, shop these and more fall 2026 new arrivals worth seeing so far.

Shop the Best Fall 2026 New Arrivals

Aritiza

Aritzia

Bare Merino Wool Bloor Sweater

Plum-colored knitwear.

Sunday Best

Clarissa Skirt

Plaid is making a comeback.

Ten

Limo Dress

Timeless.

Babaton

Optics Skirt

A knee-length skirt to wear on repeat.

Babaton

Skyline Capri

Capris to pair with a trench coat and ballet flats or kitten heels.

Wilfred

Crescendo Sweater

I like the shape of this sweater.

Babaton

Schema Sweater

This open back.

COS

Satin Ballet Flats

Satin ballet flats are one of the defining shoes of fall 2026.

COS

Sculpted Nylon Midi Skirt

A versatile midi skirt.

COS

Merino Wool Layered V-Neck Sweater

Royal purple is one of the biggest fall 2026 color trends.

Dôen

Darcy Cardigan

This Dôen cardigan will get so much wear.

Dôen

Adalie Dress

A dainty silk satin dress.

Gap

Organic Cotton Poplin Big Shirt

A simple button-down shirts is a staple.

Gap

Satin Easy Wide-Leg Pants

I keep seeing these on TikTok.

Gap

100% Cotton Oversized Sweater

This Gap sweater sells out every fall.

J.Crew

No. 2 Pencil Skirt

Pencil skirts are in.

J.Crew

Featherweight Cashmere Polo Sweater Shell

A cute little polo top.

J.Crew

Perfect Cashmere Crewneck

Our editors love J.Crew's cashmere line.

Los Angeles Apparel

Performance High V-Neck Tank

Los Angeles Apparel has the best basics.

Los Angeles Apparel

Baby Rib V-Neck Tee

The long-sleeve version.

Miu Miu

Technical Fabric and Shearling Windbreaker

I'm obsessed with this jacket.

Miu Miu

Leather Mules

Miu Miu mules.

Miu Miu

Stretch Nappa Leather Boots

My absolute dream boots.

Miu Miu

Runway Sunglasses

Periwinkle sunglasses inspired by the early 2000s.

Miu Miu

Vivant Nappa Leather Bag

And I'd love this bag.

Net-a-Porter

POLO RALPH LAUREN

Cotton and Silk-Blend Shirt

This shade of pink!

SHUSHU/TONG

Bow-Detail Cotton-Blend Midi Skirt

A pastel-yellow ShuShu/Tong skirt.

MAGDA BUTRYM

Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses

I'm into these Magda sunglasses.

Nordstrom

Camper

Right Nina Flat

I always go back to Camper for shoes.

Madewell

Devon Satin Pants

Satin pants for $98.

Cotton On

90s V Neck ¾ Sleeve

To refresh your basics.

Alex Mill

Taylor Cotton & Cashmere Cardigan

Alex Mill is stocked on Nordstrom.

ASICS

Gel-1130 Mule Sneaker

These are going viral on TikTok.

CAPEZIO

Classic Footed Tight

I'm re-upping on new tights for fall.

Prada

Wish Silk Duchesse Pouch

Prada's It bag.

Prada

Light Mohair and Chambray Skirt

The chicest skirt.

Prada

Coffret medium leather handbag

This classic investment bag.

Revolve

Geel

Paulette Dress

New in from the Los Angeles brand Geel.

GUIZIO

Elora Capri

I want these Guizio capris.

LEVI'S

501 Straight Jeans

Levi's 501 jeans never go out of style.

Shopbop

Leset

Barb Bias Midi Skirt

This easy-to-wear skirt from Leset.

The Attico

Floor 01 Suede Ballerina Flats

A new suede version of The Attico's Floor 01 Ballerina Flats.

Proenza Schouler White Label

Nyssa Dress

Such a good shape.

Ssense

JUDE

Black Fame Pump Heels

From the luxury footwear label Jude.

Baserange

Gray Omato Turtleneck

I'm such a fan of Baserange.

Aeyde

Black Bita Calf Leather Tall Boots

These Aeyde boots are stunning.

The Row

Liisa Kitten Three Heel

My idea of perfect kitten-heel pumps.

The Row

Sunglasses C

I have a feeling The Row's new sunglasses are going to sell out…

The Row

Marcel Bag

…as are its bags.

Tory Burch

Tank Top

This fun Tory Burch tank top.

Tory Burch

Nylon Cinched Jacket

A very autumnal cinched-waist coat.

Tory Burch

Plaid Golf Skirt

A Tory Burch golf skirt!

Zara

ZARA

Linen-Blend Beaded Skirt

A statement Zara skirt.

ZARA

Pleated Lace Kaftan Dress

This semi-sheer kaftan dress with lace appliqué.

I Know Summer's Not Over, But I'm Already Daydreaming About Fall—17 COS Sweaters I Can't Wait to Style

josephine.hadjiloucas@futurenet.com (Josephine Hadjiloucas) — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 21:59:54 +0000

Okay, summer isn't over yet, but fall fashion is already on my mind—specifically knitwear, from cashmere crewnecks to merino wool cardigans. I'm focused on outfitting my fall wardrobe with only the coziest, chicest, and richest sweaters.

Where will I be sourcing these luxe-looking knits? COS, of course. Last year, our editors couldn't get enough of the high-collar chunky sweaters, and I expect this season to be no different. With beautiful cobalt and royal purple, affordable luxury takes form in COS knitwear. I'm a mock-neck person myself, but if you prefer a polo or, say, a quarter-zip, COS has come prepared. Keep scrolling to shop the best COS sweaters of fall 2026. PS: If last year taught me anything, these gorgeous knits are bound to sell out quickly.

Shop the Best COS Sweaters for Fall 2026

COS

Chunky Cashmere Mock-Neck Sweater

Cozy. Cozy. Cozy.

COS

Chenille Mock-Neck Vest

Very '90s.

COS

Merino Wool Polo Shirt

Preppy chic.

COS

Merino Wool Mock-Neck Tank

Cobalt is so in.

COS

Rounded Cashmere Crew-Neck Jumper

Heather gray is a staple in my wardrobe.

COS

Cashmere Mock-Neck Sweater

Royal looking.

COS

Belt-Detail Merino Wool Sweater

The belt is cute.

COS

Merino Wool Turtleneck Top

There's something very CBK about this.

COS

Sculpted Cashmere V-Neck Sweater

The structure.

COS

Merino Wool Zip-Up Polo Shirt

There's something about a quarter-zip polo and high-waisted denim that just makes sense.

COS

Merino Wool Sweater

I'd wear this with a white tee underneath and a pair of slim-straight jeans.

COS

Cable-Knit Cashmere Cardigan

Classy.

COS

Layered-Detail Knitted V-Neck T-Shirt

I like the white trim.

COS

Merino Wool Mock-Neck Cardigan

I love how COS styled this cardigan. Just add a pair of dark-wash jeans, and you're all set.

COS

Merino Wool-Blend Cardigan

Half cardigan. Half blazer. All stylish.

COS

Cable-Knit Cashmere Sweater

Very old money.

COS

Merino Wool Layered Polo Shirt

The double collar is everything.

Shop More Editor-Approved COS Finds

COS

Angular Leather Heeled Loafers

Calling it now: Heeled loafers will be everywhere this fall.

COS

Mock-Neck Cotton Trench Coat

A high-collar trench always.

COS

Clean Cut Long-Sleeved T-Shirt

Chic.

COS

Drawstring Crossbody Bag

This color!

COS

Satin-Suede Ballet Sneakers

Satin sneakers are so cute, but check the weather first.

COS

Cotton V-Neck Tank Top

Beautifully basic.

COS

Facade Straight-Leg Jeans

You can never go wrong with a pair of light-wash jeans.

COS

Satin Ballet Flats

In my cart RN.

COS

Frieze Bowling Bag

I've been looking for a bowling bag. This one is chic.

COS

Button-Detail Fluid Midi Skirt

Beautiful movement.

COS

Leather Moccasin Loafers

There's nothing more classic than ruched loafers.

I Did a Deep Dive—These Are the Chicest Fall Arrivals Worth Shopping From Nordstrom, COS, and Aritzia

audry.hiaoui@futurenet.com (Audry Hiaoui) — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Fall 2026 is almost here, and our editors have been looking at all of the new arrivals as they start to come in. Since our readers love Nordstrom, COS, and Aritzia, I scrolled through each retailer to find the best under-$200 pieces to shop for the season ahead.

At Nordstrom, I went straight for the shoe section and found Camper's Right Nina Flats in silver for $170. For clothing, two other lines I love shopping at the retailer that have under-$200 options are NYC's Alex Mill and Los Angeles's Almina Concept.

At COS, a pair of Satin Ballet Flats and the $140 Merino Wool Layered V-Neck Sweater in royal purple caught my eye. At Aritzia, a $118 low-rise pencil skirt stood out, and for a fall outfit formula, you could wear the $98 Skyline Capris with a trench coat and kitten heels or ballet flats.

Below, shop under-$200 new arrivals from Nordstrom, COS, and Aritzia.

Shop Under-$200 New Arrivals

Nordstrom

Camper

Right Nina Flat

Camper is one of my all-time favorite shoe brands.

Nordstrom

Maddox Ballet Flat

Staple black ballet flats for $54.

Cotton On

90s V Neck ¾ Sleeve

This $25 high-V-neck T-shirt.

Cotton On

Lotus Cinched Zip Knit

Simple zip-up knitwear.

Endless Rose

Polo Sweater

A polo sweater feels very fall.

Alex Mill

Taylor Cotton & Cashmere Cardigan

I love this Alex Mill cashmere cardigan.

Nordstrom

Cashmere Crewneck Cardigan

Nordstrom also has an in-house cashmere line.

CAPEZIO

Classic Footed Tight

I like to re-up on tights every fall.

Madewell

Devon Satin Pants

Trending satin pants from Madewell.

Madewell

The Signature Stripe Y-Neck Shirt

A fun poplin shirt.

ASICS

Gel-1130 Mule Sneaker

These polarizing slip-on Asics are actually going viral on TikTok right now.

Almina Concept

Classic Round Neck Tank

Almina Concept has the best basics.

COS

Satin Ballet Flats

I have a feeling these satin ballet flats will sell out.

COS

Sculpted Nylon Midi Skirt

Midi skirts are so easy to wear.

COS

Merino Wool Layered V-Neck Sweater

One of the biggest color trends of fall 2026.

COS

Gathered Satin Midi Dress

Timeless.

Aritzia

Babaton

Optics Skirt

Suit skirts are on-trend.

Babaton

Skyline Capri

Chic.

Wilfred

Crescendo Sweater

You could style this sweater exactly as seen on the model.

Aritzia

Bare Merino Wool Bloor Sweater

A plum-colored sweater.

Babaton

Schema Sweater

An open-back option.

Aritzia

Limo Dress

Classic.

Wilfred

Apothecary Silk Skirt

A slip skirt to wear on repeat.

Aritzia

Homestretch Smooth Capsule Comfort Tank

If you're in need of new white tank tops.

It's Almost Autumn—17 Cardigans From Zara, H&M and COS That Will Sell Out Before September

Marina Avraam — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 08:00:00 +0000

As we slowly come to terms with the fact that summer is drawing to a close (I know, I know), our sartorial attention is beginning to shift from expertly packed holiday wardrobes to the foundations of a great autumn one. The perfect place to start? A really good cardigan.

Having long shed any associations with frumpy dressing, the cardigan has quietly become one of the most versatile pieces in a modern wardrobe—and a mainstay in some of the chicest ones I know. Of course, there’s a place for one year-round (thrown over shorts on cooler summer evenings, for example), but autumn is when the humble knit really comes into its own. Wear one buttoned over a white T-shirt with straight-leg jeans, pair it with tailored trousers and loafers, or style it with a pleated skirt for a slightly preppier take.

The best styles right now feel considered rather than complicated: think fine-gauge knits, relaxed silhouettes, polished collars and expensive-looking neutral shades that belie their high-street price tags. And when I’m looking for exactly that, there are three brands I find myself returning to again and again: Zara, H&M and COS.

Keep scrolling for the cardigans I’d genuinely recommend adding to your autumn wardrobe.

Best Autumn Cardigans From Zara, H&M and COS

COS

Merino Wool Cardigan

The perfect fine-knit wool cardigan in a rich chocolate brown hue.

H&M

Fine-Knit Cardigan

This whole outfit is my autumn mood-board.

ZARA

Rib Knit Cardigan With Belt

Navy is the perfect alternative to a classic black cardigan.

COS

Sculpted Cashmere Funnel-Neck Cardigan

Funnel-neck cardigans are back this season, and COS' iteration is at the top of my wish list.

H&M

Fine-Knit Cardigan

This whole look is so The Row-coded.

COS

Merino Wool Funnel-Neck Cardigan

A light merino wool knit you can wear solo with jeans now or later in the year paired with heavier knitwear.

ZARA

Cashmere Wool Buttoned Cardigan

This cashmere wool-blend cardigan will become your holy grail once the temperatures start to drop.

H&M

Wool-Blend Pocket-Detail Cardigan

For something a little more heavy-duty, opt for H&M's wool-blend patch-pocket design.

COS

Brushed-Cashmere Crew-Neck Cardigan

This sold out promptly last year—I suspect history will repeat itself.

COS

Merino Wool Cardigan

Cobalt blue is by far my favourite colour trend of the season.

H&M

Loose-Fit Cardigan

This looks twice the price.

ZARA

Short Sleeve Cardigan

Short-sleeve cardigans are the perfect way to transition your wardrobe from summer to autumn.

COS

Merino Wool V-Neck Cardigan

There's something so striking about a red knit.

H&M

Bouclé-Knit Cardigan

The bouclé texture adds the perfect amount of interest to your autumn outfits.

ZARA

Combined Knit Cardigan

So elegant.

H&M

Fine-Knit Cardigan

Statement-making, to say the least.

ZARA

V-Neck Cardigan

A simple neutral cardi you'll get so much wear out of.

I'm Building a Minimalist, The Row-Coded Autumn Wardrobe for Less—These 9 Buys Made the Cut

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Wed, 19 Aug 2026 09:53:21 +0000

After months of high temperatures, the first mild days have arrived, and we're in that perfect late summer moment. It's the in-between time of soaking up the last of the sunshine whilst offering a small pause before autumn truly breaks through. Over the past few months of living in throw-on pieces and wearing the bare minimum, autumn layering is calling to me, and more and more the vision of my autumn wardrobe is coming into focus.

Dasha wears the COS Check-Detail Belted Cotton Trench Coat (£199) (Image credit: @dasha.vinda)

Considering the saved images on my social feeds and pinned outfits, refined minimalism is what I'm craving after months of bold summer tones. Whilst The Row has a perfect uniform for this exact mood, I'm working with a slightly different budget, and three brands exude The Row energy with a friendlier price tag: COS, Toteme and Róhe.

Coco wears the Róhe Pankou Closure Jacket (£660) (Image credit: @cocoschiffer)

Whether it's the Scandinavian flair or focus on minimalism, COS, Toteme and Róhe are proving to be the backbone of my autumn wardrobe for the clean lines, focus on form and grounded palettes which define them. Whilst bound by a similar essence of understated refinement, each brand has its standout moments. COS's sumptuous cashmere is trusted even by luxury shoppers, and its tailoring continues to set it apart from its high-street counterparts.

Toteme has long been the first port of call for classic dressers drawn to expertly draped silhouettes, precise tailoring and pieces designed to go the distance. In recent years, Amsterdam-based label Róhe has become a favourite of fashion insiders, blending enduring designs with contemporary accents. Bringing the best of the brand's offerings together, I've curated a refined autumn capsule wardrobe that covers soft knitwear, classic denim, light jackets, and slinky dresses, ready to be mixed and matched throughout the coming season and for many years to come.

Shop the 9 The Row-Inspired Autumn Buys On My Wish List

Toteme

Summer Parachute Jacket Clove

Toteme's Summer Jacket is back in a soft green shade that has all my attention. Just look at that funnel-neck collar!

Toteme

Long-Sleeve Everyday Dress Black

The floor-skimming proportions of this dress scream The Row tailoring. Layer up with accessories or let the simple look do all the talking.

COS

Brushed-Cashmere Crew-Neck Cardigan

COS's cashmere is beloved by fashion people across the globe. But watch, it tends to sell out fast.

Róhe

Double-Faced Pankou Jacket | Black

The hardest part is choosing between Róhe's original Pankou jacket and this updated version.

Toteme

T-Lock Ostrich-Embossed Shoulder Bordeaux

Toteme's beloved T-Lock bag now comes in this refined east-west silhouette with a tactile finish that exudes luxury.

Róhe

Relaxed Fit Satin Trousers

For an instant touch of polish, swap out your denim for sleek satin trousers.

COS

Check-Detail Belted Cotton Trench Coat

A classic trench coat is always a smart investment. Call upon it every single year.

Róhe

Reversible Sailor Zip Cardigan | Cream

Simple yet bold is what Róhe does best.

Toteme

High-Waist Trousers Washed Black

The perfect tailored trousers. No notes.

Shop More The Row Inspired Buys

Róhe

Pony Hair Coat | Cheetah

This coat is already moving fast, and for good reason. It's the kind of print that even minimalists will embrace.

COS

Flared-Cuff Cotton Blouse

A subtle flare of the cuff is all it takes to elevate this blouse beyond the rest.

COS

Pleated Tapered Utility Trousers

The tailoring of these trousers could easily convince anyone that they're a designer buy.

COS

Paradigm Micro Tote Bag - Leather

You can't tell me that this doesn't have serious designer energy.

Toteme

Zipped Country Jacket Fawn

Toteme's jackets always find their way onto my wish list. The soft curve of the hem and tactile lining are the refined details that show the brand's designer eye.

Róh3

Double-Faced Fringe Skirt

This classic skirt reaches all new heights with delicate fringing.

Toteme

Classic Alpaca Crew Knit Pale Blue

Toteme's knitwear has already proven to hold its place in wardrobes for years.

COS

Facade Straight-Leg Jeans

The cut and wash of these jeans have made them an instant best-seller.

Toteme

Everyday Top Ecru

The fluid form seriously elevates this staple piece. It also comes in black.

COS

Gathered Satin Midi Dress

The gathered neckline! The soft shoulders!

Róhe

Oversized Cotton Wool T-Shirt

The cut of the sleeves and drape of the body makes this T-shirt so much more than a throw on piece.

Róhe

Grain Leather Aviator Jacket | Chestnut

A jacket you'll treasure for years to come.

COS

Merino Wool High-Neck Top

Save this for the transitional period when you're not yet ready for a heavy knit.

Róhe

Bruun - Signature Baggy Denim

I always find myself reaching for white denim in autumn to refresh my tonal palette.

Toteme

Slouch Waist Dress Dark Green

If you have any reason to dress up this autumn, you'll want to have this dress in your wardrobe.

I'm a Fashion Person, and These Are the Clothes I Want to Wear From Aligne, Tibi, Vince, COS, and Soft Goat

Bobby Schuessler — Mon, 17 Aug 2026 11:00:00 +0000

As a fashion editor, my personal wardrobe is a mix of labels, and yes, I regularly weave womenswear pieces into my everyday rotation—especially elevated tailored staples from Aligne, Tibi, Vince, COS, and Soft Goat. These brands started dropping fall 2026 merchandise, so you better believe I started taking notes of the items I want to wear. Naturally, I'm sharing my list with you.

Below, you'll find everything I'm into for fall. I live for a good pair of trousers (Tibi makes some of my favorites—that's me above in one of my favorite styles), so I'm featuring the standouts here. I also can't resist directional outerwear silhouettes and cool basics. There are plenty of options coming your way. Okay, let's get to it.

Aligne

ALIGNE

Dion Brushed Wool Jumper

It's all about purple for fall 2026.

ALIGNE

Ester Knitted Jumper

You'll get so much wear out of this knit.

ALIGNE

Daphne Double Breasted Blazer

The silhouette!

ALIGNE

Millicent Satin Trouser

Pretty with the satin.

ALIGNE

Helen Brushed Wool Knit

Adore the colors here.

Tibi

TIBI

Crispy Nylon Winslow Pant

I literally live in these pants.

TIBI

Perfect Double Layer Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Long-sleeve tees are great, and the double-layer styles will be big for fall.

TIBI

Tropical Wool Charles Trouser

I also wear this style.

TIBI

Edmund Lyocell Stripe Oversized Shirt

Nice elevated basic.

TIBI

Stretch Silk Nylon Knit Collar Cocoon Top

Fun!

Vince

Double-Collar Cotton-Blend Trench Coat

Note the double collar.

Vince

Cashmere-Silk Pocket V-Neck Sweater

The pocket!

Vince

Flap Pocket Wool-Blend Sweater Jacket

Gorgeous hue.

Vince

High-Rise Pleated Trouser

Vince trousers are also stellar.

Vince

Silk Satin Dolman-Sleeve Button-Front Shirt

Wait, I love styling a turtleneck underneath the shirt.

COS

Rounded Short Trench Coat

Cute short trench.

COS

Brushed-Cotton Long-Sleeved T-Shirt

This shirt also comes in white.

COS

Belted Leather Workwear Jacket

Wow.

COS

Pleated Crepe Balloon Pants

Balloon pants continue to have a moment.

COS

Belted Peplum Jacket

Sleek.

Soft Goat

Brushed Cardigan

Okay, this purple sweater too.

Soft Goat

Silk Pants

Stunning.

Soft Goat

Oversized V-Neck

Soft Goat's sweaters are so soft.

Soft Goat

Pointelle Tee

Lovely little tee.

Soft Goat

Brushed Shirt

Feeling navy.

9 New Elegant COS Buys That Will Sell Out Before Autumn Arrives

Chloe Gallacher — Sun, 09 Aug 2026 05:50:00 +0000

As much as I love the hot weather and dressing for the summer months, I must admit, I am so looking forward to reintroducing jeans and light knits into my wardrobe. Our favourite brands have started slowly trickling pre-fall collections into their stores with autumn on the horizon, and signs of the new season trends are starting to emerge. I, for one, headed straight to the new-in section of COS to gain inspiration for the season ahead.

We’re slowly heading into that tricky transitional phase of dressing where it’s not quite warm enough for big coats, but it’s too cold for floaty dresses. Now is the time when I start to get ahead and begin thinking about what my autumn wardrobe is going to look like – rather than waiting for late September and being taken off-guard. I want to feel prepared, so I’ve got a seamless wardrobe switch and outfit formulas already in place.

COS is my go-to high-street brand for capsule wardrobe staples. Their structured silhouettes, versatile basics and high-quality fabrics are a no-brainer for me. If there's one thing I love, it's the way in which the pieces can be seamlessly mixed and matched with my existing wardrobe, making curating outfits so much easier.

I’ve scoured the new-in section of COS and rounded up nine pieces I’ve got my eye on already to invest in for my early-autumn wardrobe.

COS

Merino Wool Cardigan

Cobalt blue is set to be a huge colour trend this autumn.

COS

Facade Straight-Leg Jeans

COS is my high-street go-to for denim and this pair went straight in my basket.

COS

Rounded Short Trench Jacket

There's something so chic about a cropped trench coat.

COS

Sculpted Tote Bag

If there's one thing I love for a new season, it's a new bag.

COS

Clean Cut T-Shirt

Striped t-shirts have been so on-trend this year and I predict this one will sell-out.

COS

Pleated Cotton-Blend Balloon Trousers

A tailored trouser is so versatile in an autumnal wardrobe.

COS

Oval-Buckle Leather Belt

Belts give a chic finishing touch to a look.

COS

Minimal Leather Ballet Flats

Closed toe shoe season is almost upon us and these ballet flats make that realisation easier to bear.

COS

Cutaway-Collar Striped Cotton-Blend Shirt

Wear alone or layer it over a plain white tee.

Shop More Cos Buys We Adore:

COS

Funnel-Neck Cotton Trench Coat

A trench coat is such a classic in an autumnal wardrobe.

COS

Sailor-Collar Knitted Top

This feels so much more elevated than a jersey polo neck top.

COS

Denim Barrel-Leg Trousers

White jeans don't have to be reserved for summer months–wear it with a deep chocolate brown knit to make it feel more autumnal.

COS

Rounded Cashmere Crew-Neck Jumper

This is a piece you'd get so much wear out of and bring out year after year.

COS

Funnel-Neck Denim Jacket

The deep indigo denim and boxy silhouette gives this such an elevated finish.

COS

Leather Rope Belt

I love the styling of this and will absolutely be recreating it.

COS

Brushed-Cashmere Crew-Neck Cardigan

This immediately went in my basket.

COS

Oversized Boxy Cotton T-Shirt

A good basic tee is such a versatile capsule piece that can be worn alone or layered with knits.

COS

Merino Wool High-Neck Top

I love the contrast of the red along the neckline.

COS

Curved Domed Earrings

Add to your every day jewellery rotation.

COS

Cotton Long-Sleeved Top

COS is my go-to for chic basics.

COS

Crinkled-Jersey Shirt

This can be worn with so many other pieces to curate new looks each time.

COS

Polka-Dot Silk Skinny Scarf

A silk scarf adds that chic finishing touch to any look.

I Just Tried On COS's Elegant, Timeless Summer Collection—9 Cult Buys Selling Fast

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Thu, 23 Jul 2026 05:50:00 +0000

When putting together my summer staples, my first stop is always COS. The brand has made a name for itself as a high street hero which brings clean lines, minimalist designs and an elevated feel to affordable pieces. Each season, we're met with a series of best-selling classics along with new heroes that exude elegance and have a timeless feel to ensure that any new addition will earn its keep in our wardrobes for years to come. Now that we've settled into the summer season, I've realised that a few seasonal staples are missing from my collection and COS is ready to fill them.

Florrie wears the COS Pleated Peplum Top (£65) and Denim Barrel Leg Trousers (£85) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

Heading into the store, my first focus was linen. For years we've sung the praises of COS's breezy linen trousers, and whilst I've tried on a few, I honed in on a sweet, breathable mini dress. The draw of the mini dress is how polished it looks, with an anti-trend edge to ensure I'll get plenty of wear out of this new addition. Another linen standout came in the form of the tailored linen shorts. True to form, COS has combined the refinement of its expert tailoring with a comfortable edge, thanks to the part-elasticated waistband.

Florrie wears the COS Striped Cotton-Silk High-Collar Shirt (£95) and Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers (£75) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

Next, I had to check out the new denim arrivals. The denim barrel-leg trousers have a carpenter feel with bold stitching and a sleek horseshoe shape, which I know will propel them into cult buy position. On great trousers, if you're looking for a pair of trousers that feel a little more contemporary than your trusted wide-leg pair, I picked up a pair of relaxed cotton trousers, and paired them with a reliable striped shirt for an effortlessly considered look. Whether you're looking for breezy linens, sophisticated dresses or updating your denim collection, these are the best summer staples at COS right now.

Shop the 9 Best COS Summer Staples

COS

Open-Collar Linen Mini Shirt Dress

The kind of dress that can be thrown over swimwear when heading from the beach to lunch, or worn in the city with sleek sandals and an oversized tote.

COS

Pleated Peplum Top

The silhouette of this top has all my attention.

COS

Denim Barrel-Leg Trousers

These denim trousers are at the top of my wish list.

COS

Striped Cotton-Silk High-Collar Shirt

Silky and sleek. You'll call upon this shirt all year round.

COS

Tailored Elasticated Linen Shorts

No matter the year, you'll rely on these refined linen shorts.

COS

Sculpted Leather Flip Flops

Simple yet so effective.

COS

Tie-Detail Pleated Georgette Maxi Dress

I've spotted to many stylish people adding this exact dress to their wardrobes.

COS

Folded Off-The-Shoulder Top

Trust me, this off-the-shoulder top will fly.

COS

Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

Comfortable, breezy and such a striking shape.

COS

Riviera Hand-Woven Tote Bag - Straw

The bag on every editor's wish list right now.

Shop More COS Summer Staples

COS

Slim Boat-Neck Cotton T-Shirt

The neckline sets this basics piece apart from the rest.

COS

Textured Slim Straight-Leg Trousers

Add to your workwear wardrobe immediately.

COS

Gathered Midi Dress

The simple ruching makes this dress immediately look triple the price.

COS

Clean Cut T-Shirt

COS's clean cut t-shirt is a best-seller. Now it comes in this cool stripe version.

COS

Buckle-Detail Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

Everyone will think these smart linen trousers are a high-end purchase.

COS

Knotted Chain Necklace

Currently in my basket...

COS

Jacquard Handkerchief Midi Skirt

This whole look is a 10/10.

COS

Cotton-Blend Crepe Waistcoat

A piece that will work hard in your work and off-duty outfits.

COS

Pipeline Slim-Leg Jeans

COS denim is beloved for a reason.

COS

Raffia Bucket Hat

I wear my raffia bucket hat on every summer holiday.

COS

Gathered-Neck Jersey Tank Top

A piece I wear at least once a week.

COS

Pleated Cotton-Linen Midi Skirt

This skirt will be a hard-working addition through every season.

It's Official—Zara, Mango and COS Just Dropped the Most Elegant Collections of the Summer

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 05:50:00 +0000

The summer season has settled into a comfortable rhythm of warm days and bright skies, and our wardrobes are working hard to keep up. Loafers have been replaced with open-toe sandals, thick layers set aside in favour of light linens, and on the days when we want instant polish, dresses are leading the charge. At this point in the season, most of us have had the chance to assess our summer capsules, and personally I've found a few gaps where expensive-looking affordable buys should be. Luckily, a fresh wave of new-in styles have arrived on the high street, and I've scrolled through all of them to handpick the very best. Right now, the standouts all come from Zara, COS and Mango.

Zara Asymmetric Striped Top (£20) and Zara Striped Wide-Leg Trousers (£23) (Image credit: Zara)

Already this season, we've watched Zara offer up a series of instant best-sellers. From the viral frog-fastening shirt to the sell-out polka dot dress, Zara's summer collection is the strongest it's been in years. Even if you missed out on the It buys, there are a series of fresh pieces vying for a chance at cult status right now.

As ever, COS is bringing its innate elegance to summer staples, from expertly cut tailoring to easy cotton shirts. Soft silhouettes and intricate details of pleats and pin-tucking show the brand's attention to detail, and ability to make even affordable styles look like investment purchases. Mango rounds off the trio with attention to cut and form, from sleek balloon trousers to halter-neck dresses with delicate embroidery and crochet work, making its pieces look triple their actual price. As the best high street pieces tend to move fast, I'd recommend scrolling on.

Shop the Best Zara, COS and Mango Summer Buys

ZARA

Printed Polka Dot Blouse

The pretty blouse to wear with jeans, shorts, capri pants, skirts and more.

MANGO

High-Waisted Balloon Trousers

The shape of these trousers is so good.

MANGO

Oval Shoulder Bag

I genuinely thought this bag was a vintage designer find.

ZARA

Linen Blend Oversize Shirt With Frog Fastening

The cult buy of summer.

ZARA

Striped Wide-Leg Trousers

I want to wear this matching set immediately.

COS

Striped Cotton Shirt

A great shirt that will work hard in your wardrobe all year round.

COS

Wide-Leg Denim Shorts

These longline shorts are so sophisticated.

ZARA

Linen Blend Midi Dress With Pin Tucks

This dress is so chic (and selling fast!)

MANGO

Leather Straps Sandals

I haven't stopped thinking about these vibrant red sandals.

ZARA

Cotton Drawstring Bermuda Shorts

Currently in my basket.

MANGO

Knitted V-Neck Dress With Bead Embellishments

The bead details are such a nice touch.

ZARA

Zw Collection Mid-Waist Baggy Jeans

I bought a pair of similar khaki jeans and have had so many compliments.

MANGO

Halter Dress With Broderie Anglaise

I just know this pretty dress will be a hit this summer.

MANGO

Ribbed Knit Jumper With Contrast Trims

As soon as the cooler days arrive, I'll want to have this ready in my wardrobe.

ZARA

Zw Collection Lace Camisole Top

Easy, relaxed and yet so refined.

COS

Linen Wide-Leg Trousers

COS knows all about excellent tailored trousers.

MANGO

Braided Leather Shopper Bag

If you thought this was a designer buy I wouldn't blame you.

COS

Polka-Dot Jacquard Cotton Midi Skirt

This new skirt is already making waves in the Who What Wear offices.

ZARA

Check Jacket

It may not be jacket weather right now, but you won't want to miss out on this sleek style.

MANGO

A-Line Dress With Seam Detail

This timeless dress will be a summer staple every single year.

COS

Fluted-Sleeve Cotton Blouse

Such a rich shade.

MANGO

Low-Rise Tie Jeans

These tie jeans are ready to rejuvenate my denim collection.

COS

Tie-Detail Pleated Georgette Maxi Dress

Dress up or down by swapping in heels or sandals.

MANGO

Ruffled Crochet Top

This top is at the top of my wish list.

COS

Cotton Barrel-Leg Utility Trousers

This bold barrel-leg shape is ready to freshen up your summer wardrobe.

ZARA

Zw Collection Halter Neck Dress

Everyone will think this dress is triple the price.

ZARA

Striped Knit Polo Shirt

Colourful stripes are here to stay.

COS

Cotton-Twill Wide-Leg Turn-Up Trousers

The shape of these trousers is a 10/10.

COS

Layered Pintucked Mini Dress

The perfect throw-on mini dress for when you want to look put-together in five seconds.

ZARA

Volume Sarouel Trousers

Every stylish person I know is adding a pair of balloon trousers to their wardrobe.

This Fashion Editor–Loved Brand Is Majorly Discounted During the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale—Here's Every Chic Item I'm Buying

Judith Jones — Sun, 19 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has officially kicked off, and whether you're looking to add some fresh pieces to your wardrobe or stock up on simple basics, the most popular shopping event of the year is filled with major discounts and new arrivals from brands we know and love—Reformation, Levi's, and Staud, to name but a few.

There's one brand we fashion editors always make a beeline to when it's on sale because we just can't get enough of its elevated and minimalist-chic offerings. I'm talking about COS, and lucky for us, there are a number of amazing sale finds from the understated brand that are majorly discounted. I'm sharing 27 specific styles—from dark-wash jeans to sleek knit polo sweaters—that are classic, wearable, and fashion-forward. I can't wait to add them to my wardrobe, and something tells me you won't regret them either. These pieces are on sale for a limited time, with pricing going back up on August 10, so don't sleep on them.

COS

Merino Wool-Yak Zip-Up Polo Shirt

The zip-up silhouette feels sporty yet sophisticated.

COS

Folio Mini Bag in Leather

Minimalist chic.

COS

Jersey V-Neck Top

A perfect day-to-night top.

COS

Leather Heeled Mary Jane Shoes

These will look so good with dresses and jeans alike.

COS

Rounded Cotton Blouson Jacket

New season, new jacket.

COS

Cotton-Canvas Straight-Leg Pants

These canvas pants are so versatile.

COS

Pontus Long Sleeve T-Shirt

Every cool girl is wearing long-sleeve white tees right now.

COS

Satin Wrap Skirt

Knee-length skirts are trending, and this one is incredibly elegant.

COS

Longline Tailored Shorts

Long shorts that feel polished.

COS

Paradigm Tote Bag

Tote your fall essentials in style.

COS

Wool V-Neck Tunic Vest

Ideal to take you from summer to fall.

COS

Layered-Collar Pima Cotton Shirt

Cool layering here.

COS

Open-Stitch Satin Slip Dress

This slip is giving Parisian-chic vibes.

COS

Crinkled-Silk Midi Shirt Dress

Just add a silk scarf belt.

COS

Folded Clutch Bag

A straw bag that you can take to dinner.

COS

Cotton-Twill Tapered Pants

You'll reach for these on repeat.

COS

Square-Frame Aviator Sunglasses

Retro aviator frames are everywhere this season.

COS

Wide-Leg Denim Pants

It's all about indigo denim this fall.

COS

Gathered Cotton Peplum Top

Pretty!

COS

Jersey-Paneled Nylon Mini Dress

I love that this LBD comes in a crisp nylon fabric.

COS

Lace-Trimmed Ribbed V-Neck T-Shirt

Lean into the lace-trim trend.

COS

Dial Wide-Leg Jeans

Another great pair of dark-wash jeans.

COS

Structured Wool-Blend Blazer

Work perfect.

COS

Gathered Pencil Skirt

A skirt you'll wear for years to come.

COS

Gathered V-Neck Blouse

I'm definitely wearing this blouse to the office.

COS

Tailored Merino Wool-Blend Mini Dress

This neckline!

COS

Oversized Quilted Down Gilet

You'll be glad you got this once October rolls around.

COS, Zara, and Mango Are Killing It This Summer—30 Standout Pieces I'm Certain Will Sell Out

Kerane Marcellus — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0000

It might be midsummer, but there's still time to reinvent your summer style. The best way to do so is by shopping on sites that offer affordable yet expensive-looking pieces. This ensures your bank statements won’t be unbearable to look at and your closet will be filled with pieces that make you look elegant and put-together. The sites that I find accomplish this offer something for everyone, from simple, high-quality basics to statement pieces.

The fashion sites in question are COS, Zara, and Mango. Yes, each of these retailers is the real deal in terms of budget-friendly, stylish items. From clothing to shoes to accessories, you won't be disappointed. If you're on the hunt to build out your summer wardrobe further, keep scrolling to shop their stunning new arrivals.

COS

COS is for the chic shoppers. This retailer makes looking elegant on a daily basis much more accessible. Sleek basics and essentials and high-quality accessories are all found on this site. The new arrivals always hit, so keep scrolling to find your new dependable summer items for the rest of the season.

COS

Button-Detail Linen V-Neck Shirt

COS

Jacquard Handkerchief Midi Skirt

COS

Eyelet Cotton-Linen Skirt

COS

Sculpted Leather Flip Flops

COS

Cotton-Blend Crepe Vest

COS

Long-Sleeved Cotton Raglan T-Shirt

COS

Slim Boat-Neck Cotton T-Shirt

COS

Pointelle-Knit Bucket Hat

COS

Diamond-Knit Lace T-Shirt

COS

Drawstring Crossbody Bag - Leather

Zara

Zara's new arrivals never disappoint. The retailer is a go-to for many fashion people, and it's no surprise why. The offerings for this round of new arrivals include everything from sleek basics to eye-catching accessories. There are a few items for the transitional season in the mix as well, which is why Zara is such a staple for the fashion set. Keep scrolling to discover new items to add to your wardrobe.

ZARA

Pack of Organic Ear Cuff Earrings

ZARA

Striped Knit Polo

ZARA

Contrast Piping Top

ZARA

Zw Collection Pleated Bermuda Shorts

ZARA

Zw Collection Halter Neck Dress

ZARA

Asymmetric Cape

ZARA

ZW Collection Mid-Rise Tapered Stripe Jeans

ZARA

Flowy Striped Halter Top

ZARA

Satin Effect Frog Fastening Skirt ZW Collection

ZARA

Colorblock Leather Shoulder Bag

Mango

Lately, Mango has been my go-to for all things stylish and affordable. The retailer just collaborated with one of my favorite Gen Z–friendly brands, Eckhaus Latta, and features an array of cool items. From layered dresses to flowy skirts to distressed denim, Mango is the perfect place to turn to for a closet revamp. Keep scrolling to shop my top selections.

MANGO

Overlay Dress With Bows

MANGO

Draped Cotton Top

MANGO

Short-Sleeved Fine-Knit Sweater

MANGO

Wide-Leg Frayed Waist Jeans

MANGO

Lace Slip Dress With Side Slit

MANGO

Starring Hailey Bieber Kasha Midi Skirt

MANGO

Braided Slingback Pumps

MANGO

Lace Trim Satin Skirt

MANGO

Short-Sleeved Combined Sweater

MANGO

Strappy Heeled Sandals

My Friend Asked for an Elegant Summer Wardrobe on a Budget—9 Zara, COS and H&M Buys I Sent Back

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 05:45:00 +0000

The summer season has settled into a bright, warm rhythm, and in response, my calendar is filling up fast. Plans of picnics in the park, al fresco dinners and weekend getaways are lighting up my group chat, along with the age-old question of what we're going to wear. As a shopping editor, my friends know that I spend hours scrolling through the new-in sections, so I have a good idea of where to find the best pieces at all times. So when my best friend asked for an affordable update to her summer wardrobe that focused on timeless pieces that looked triple their actual price, I sent these Zara, COS and H&M buys straight back.

Florrie wears H&M Oversized Tie-Detail Blouse (£23) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

The British high street has come a long way in recent years. Now, any time I need a refined update at an affordable price, I know that with a little searching, there's something special to be found. And most of the time, I start my search at Zara, COS, and H&M. This trio of brands has a way of leaning into current trends with an enduring edge, ensuring these pieces will earn their keep in our wardrobes.

Florrie wears the COS Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Trousers (£65) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

For summer 2026, these brands have once again proven their design prowess and contemporary accolades, with classic trousers and jeans taking on a fresh barrel-leg silhouette, simple tank tops renewed with accents of lace and Broderie anglaise for a dainty edge and throw-on dresses cut in elegant silhouettes that can move from day to night dressing with the swap of a shoe. Whether you're bolstering your summer capsule wardrobe or looking for a standout piece to freshen up your most worn summer outfit, these three brands have restocked their summer collections just in time. Now, I've rounded up the very best summer buys from Zara, COS and H&M that look seriously expensive and will immediately work hard in any great summer wardrobe.

Shop the Zara, COS and H&M Summer Buys That Will Sell Out First

ZARA

Linen Blend Oversize Shirt With Frog Fastening

I've spotted so many stylish people wearing this exact Zara shirt.

H&M

Lace-Trimmed Tie-Strap Top

One of the prettiest tops to come out of the high street this season.

H&M

Crease-Leg Barrel Trousers

The shape of these trousers is a 10/10.

COS

Riviera Hand-Woven Tote Bag

A sleek basket bag you'll call upon every single year.

ZARA

Panelled Long Dress

This new-in dress is sure to sell out fast.

H&M

Belted Cotton Shorts

These shorts will bring an instant sweet edge to summer dressing.

H&M

Oversized Poplin Shirt

Currently in my basket.

COS

Layered Pintucked Mini Dress

A reliable mini dress for every single summer.

ZARA

Flat Leather Sandals

Sleek sandals to pair with dresses, trousers, shorts and more.

Shop More Zara, COS and H&M Buys We Adore

H&M

Oversized Tie-Detail Blouse

I'm wearing this exact top above.

COS

Cotton-Poplin Short-Sleeved Shirt Dress

Pack this for your next weekend away.

H&M

Draped Tie-Detail Top

A simple tie-detail with delicate fringe instantly takes this top to the next level.

COS

Wide-Leg Denim Shorts

Longline shorts are so sophisticated.

H&M

Picot-Trimmed Cotton Dress

This sweet dress is already moving fast.

ZARA

Zw Collection Lace Halter Top

I can't believe this is still in stock.

H&M

Barrel Regular Waist Ankle Jeans

Such a great cut.

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Flared-Skirt Dress

An easy dress to throw on this summer.

COS

Cotton-Twill Wide-Leg Turn-Up Trousers

Sleek minimalists are adding these trousers to basket right now.

COS

Frieze Bowling Bag - Leather

A spacious tote for weekends away.

ZARA

Zw Collection Lace Shirt

This top is at the top of my wish list.

COS

Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Trousers

Comfortable and reliable.

ZARA

Linen Blend Midi Dress With Pin Tucks

Simple yet so effective.

COS

Buckled Leather Kitten Heels

The 90's edge makes these even more alluring.

COS

Cotton Barrel-Leg Utility Trousers

A contemporary update to classic cotton trousers.

COS

Knitted Linen-Merino Short-Sleeved Shirt

A light knit for the warmer months.

ZARA

Wide-Leg Pleated Trousers

The drape of these trousers has all my attention.

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Cotton Dress

Just add sandals and a basket bag.

H&M

Oversized Linen Shirt

Rely on this timeless shirt all year round.

ZARA

Zw Collection Barrel Patchwork Mid-Waist Jeans

Such a fun infusion of colour.

ZARA

Long Gathered Satin Dress

Pair with neutrals or let your colourful accessories sing.

ZARA

Linen Blend Shirt With Puff Hem

This playful shape is so good!

ZARA

Poplin Midi Dress

A reliable piece for every wardrobe.

ZARA

Halter Strap Jumpsuit

A ready-made outfit for those days when you have five minutes to get ready.

COS

Fluted-Sleeve Cotton Blouse

This shade is so good.

ZARA

Z1975 Mid-Waist Mom Fit Shorts

I always turn to white denim in the warmer months.

COS

Gathered Pleated V-Neck Maxi Dress

Already in every editor's basket.

I Tried Every Pair of Denim Shorts That Have Gone Viral This Summer—These 8 Were My Favourites

Ava Gilchrist — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Denim is a fixture in any well-edited wardrobe. However, one category that feels sorely underrated in the canon of covetable jeans and miniskirts is a pair of denim shorts. Imbued with the understated effortlessness of summertime dressing, they're inherently relaxed and easy to style. Indeed, denim shorts are a blank canvas to be styled in a multitude of ways. Better still, they boast the same qualities we all adore about jeans: hard-working, endlessly versatile and unfussily chic, but without suffocating your legs in stiff fabric during a scorching heatwave.

Whilst some remain loyal to their jeans all year round, the best denim shorts prove to be an ideal substitute for your favourite pair of baby blues or stiff indigo. This summer, especially, there are countless variations of denim shorts to choose from and covet.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Leading the charge are the elongated Bermuda-esque styles that fall just above the knee. Commonly referred to as jorts, the baggy shape has quickly become the default denim-shorts style after years of itty-bitty hemlines that fall just below the bum. Short-shorts still possess cultural cachet though, especially when they’re a preferred silhouette for those seeking something a little more sensual and skin-baring to see them through the season’s endless heatwaves.

But, as anyone who lives in denim knows, not every pair of shorts is made equally. Length and cut aside, there’s a very big difference between styles that look exceptional on the body and feel incredibly comfortable to move around in. And yes, comfort is a firm prerequisite for a piece whose appeal hinges a lot on its durability and ease.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

So, how does one determine the best denim shorts without going through the rigmarole of buying several pairs and testing them for a few weeks to see which ones hold up? Thankfully, we’ve already done this hard work for you. Here, Who What Wear UK shares our comprehensive edit of the best denim shorts for women on the market right now. From long hems that pair perfectly with a simple tank top and leather sandals to cropped styles rendered in vintage washes that are demanding to be worn with a pretty blouse, scroll on to see and shop the best denim shorts to invest in this summer.

The 9 Best Denim Shorts for Women, as Tested by a Fashion Editor

Best Overall Pair of Denim Shorts for Women: Sézane Le Summer Shorts, £100
Best High-Street Pair of Denim Shorts: COS High-Rise Denim Shorts, £55
Best Designer Pair of Denim Shorts: Citizens of Humanity Court Denim Straight-Leg Shorts, £260
Best High-Waisted Pair of Denim Shorts: Dala Denim Baker Short, £168
Best Low-Rise Pair of Denim Shorts: & Other Stories Low-Waist Denim Mini Shorts, £57
Best Knee-Length Pair of Denim Shorts: Agolde Nolan Denim Bermuda Shorts, £265

1. Sézane Le Summer Shorts

(Image credit: @avahgilchrist)

Style Notes: Shopping at Sézane is like stepping inside a portal that transports you right to the arrondissements of Paris. You’ll always leave feeling slightly more chic, polished, and, perhaps, like the protagonist of some sumptuous French New Wave film. That’s exactly how wearing the Le Summer shorts made me feel.

Slipping into the raw-hem style, which I picked out in this rich blue shade that rivals the hue of the Mediterranean at midday, I instantly felt like I was an extra in La Piscine, the steamy aquatic psychological thriller set in a stunning Saint-Tropez villa. With a trip to Marseille on the horizon, this is the exact style I can imagine wearing for a long, blissful lunch at Tuba Club alongside a stunning Dôen peasant blouse and A.Emery flip-flops. Though they were slightly a little tighter around my thigh than pictured online, they made up for it in softness, as the fabric feels incredibly supple to the touch. Jane Birkin, eat your heart out.

Shop the Shorts:

Best Overall Pair of Denim Shorts for Women

Sézane

Le Summer Shorts

Size Range: UK 6-18

Material: 98% organic cotton, 2% elastane

Colours: 5, including dark blue, light blue, floral and red-and-white stripes.

Pros

Will make any outfit feel more French.

Cons

I'm really struggling to find a fault here; they're well priced, well made and exceptionally chic. Definitely the best denim shorts I tried on.

2. Citizens of Humanity Court Denim Straight-Leg Shorts

(Image credit: @avahgilchrist)

Style Notes: As someone who has spent considerable time in Los Angeles over the years, I know that the locals wear denim in a way that feels exceptionally desirable. Blame it on the fact that it’s a crucial part of the off-duty wardrobes of the endless creative types who live there, but the fabric is the closest thing to a uniform you could get. That’s why brands hailing from this part of the globe pique my interest. They instantly understand the casual-meets-considered edge that denim can bring, and this pair of denim shorts from Citizens of Humanity certainly delivers on all fronts.

Hitting just above the knee, they bring a refined polish to laid-back dressing, reminiscent of something you’d find in Wasteland, a legendary vintage boutique on Melrose Avenue, or on one of the many stylish frequenters of Community Goods, the West Hollywood haunt regularly visited by Hailey Bieber. To style these shorts like a true native, I’d team them with leather fisherman sandals and a fresh white T-shirt from Leset.

Shop the Shorts:

Best Designer Pair of Denim Shorts

CITIZENS OF HUMANITY

Court Denim Straight-Leg Shorts

Size Range: 23"–32"

Material: 100% cotton

Colours: White

Pros

So easy to style, thanks to that throw-on-and-go shape.

Cons

More expensive option.

3. Agolde Indra Frayed Denim Shorts

(Image credit: @avahgilchrist)

Style Notes: Another brand that calls L.A. home, Agolde has swiftly become one of the leading prestige denim labels, thanks to how it marries vintage shapes with modern fabrics and environmentally considered manufacturing practices. As someone who has penned many essays on how beloved Agolde’s jeans are, it should come as no surprise that its denim shorts are just as sought after. I truly mean this as a compliment when I say that style feels like someone has just taken a pair of scissors to the iconic Harper style, which is a straight-leg cut made from the smoothest, most relaxed denim.

Long and loose, this style has already become the hardest-working pair of denim shorts in my wardrobe. With a fluid shape and resilient material, I throw these on when I want to look more put-together running errands, whether nipping to the shops or spending several hours trawling through my favourite stores. My only caveat is that spending over £200 on a pair of denim shorts that I’ll mostly wear for my more dressed-down outings is a considerable investment. Still, factoring in that my lifestyle is more laid-back anyway, I do find myself gravitating towards these compared to my sleek pencil skirts and towering heels, so the cost per wear is relatively low.

Shop the Shorts:

Best Bermuda Denim Shorts

Agolde

Indra Denim Bermuda Shorts

Size Range: 23"–32"

Material: 100% cotton

Colours: Marbled blue.

Pros

Sit at the perfect spot on your hips and super

Cons

The raw hem will be prone to rips and frays, so you have to be extra careful if you don't want to distress this style further.

4. Dala Baker Shorts

(Image credit: @avahgilchrist)

Style Notes: Closer to home, the most refined dressers in London are all wearing denim by Dala, a design studio that produces 100% organic-cotton styles, all ethically manufactured in Paraguay. Cool and contemporary, the style I’ve tried here is part of its new collection, which is built around the concept that denim is a core part of a considered uniform. After wearing them on repeat, I couldn’t concur with this sentiment more. The style itself has a '90s sensibility, with clean lines, grungy accents and a true vintage wash.

As the brand says, the singular wash is "the perfect lived-in blue, softly faded with time, years of wear and sun-bleached memories". The shorts have a tailored finish that elevates anything they're paired with. In this case, I’m wearing it with my favourite three-quarter-sleeve top from Cou Cou Intimates, which is like catnip for cool girls this summer, and jelly flip-flops from Ancient Greek Sandals. Truly, the best thing about this pair is how simple and effective it is. When thinking about the precise fit, this style really shines as an anything-but-boring basic that I honestly love wearing. Who knows; I might even embrace my inner Chloë Sevigny or Courtney Love come autumn and pair these with gathered loafers and a checked shirt.

Shop the Shorts:

The Best High-Waisted Pair of Denim Shorts

DALA

Baker Shorts

Size Range: 24"-40"

Material: 100% organic cotton

Colours: Whiskered Blue.

Pros

These hit at the perfect spot on your mid-thigh, making them incredibly versatile and easy to style up or down.

Cons

Available in a limited number of colourways.

5. H&M Denim Shorts

(Image credit: @avahgilchrist)

Style Notes: H&M is a high-street giant that balances trend-forward pieces with timeless basics. This pair certainly falls into the latter category, given the fact that it’s a mid-rise shape that doesn’t feel either super short or super long. What’s most striking about this style is the price point. With an exceptional fabric composition of 99% cotton and 1% elastane, this pair is proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune on something for it to be really well-made. If this heatwave is making you desperate for a pair of shorts that can last you through the rest of the season without breaking the bank, this is the pair I’d recommend. Costing less than an average meal in London, these will make the most of the scorching temperatures we’re currently experiencing.

Shop the Shorts:

Best Affordable Pair of Denim Shorts

H&M

Denim Shorts

Size Range: UK 4-22

Material: 99% cotton, 1% elastane

Colours: 4, including light blue, dark blue, black and medium blue.

Pros

Incredibly affordable.

Cons

Stock is selling out incredibly fast.

6. COS High-Rise Denim Shorts

(Image credit: @avahgilchrist)

Style Notes: Summer in the city is all about balancing refined tailoring, classic shirting and trend-forward accessories, be it a pair of suede sandals or adding a chic pendant necklace to your ensemble. This COS pair serves as the perfect starting point for building an outfit around these archetypes. Sitting high on the waist, they add length to your frame with a longline effect and a knee-grazing hemline. Few styles of denim shorts can make you look like you’re Carolyn Bessette Kennedy exiting the Calvin Klein offices in Manhattan during the early days of her relationship with John F. Kennedy Jr, but with an elegantly undone shape and soft fabric, you’ll instantly feel like the patron saint of minimalism in all her glory. Pair with a fluid button-down from With Nothing Underneath and mesh ballet flats from Dear Frances for the ultimate girl-on-the-go look.

Shop the Shorts:

The Best High-Street Pair of Denim Shorts

COS

High-Rise Denim Shorts

Size Range: 23"-32"

Material: 100% cotton

Colours: 3: dark blue, light blue and beige.

Pros

The definition of an expensive-look

Cons

Stock is selling out incredibly fast.

7. Agolde Nolan Denim Bermuda Shorts

(Image credit: @avahgilchrist)

Style Notes: Nothing signals summer’s arrival quite like the appearance of white shorts. This style from Agolde, aptly dubbed a "milkshake" colourway, bridges the modern polish and structure of everyone’s go-to Bermuda shorts into a generously cut denim style. Casually slung on the hips, they slightly protrude out around the hem, creating a somewhat A-line silhouette that will appeal to those seeking a more carefree silhouette. To me, these are the perfect escape shorts, which is a style that refers to those items of clothing that instantly conjure that holiday feeling. With a crisp colourway and unfussy length, I can easily see myself wearing them whilst strolling around Palma or Capri.

Shop the Shorts:

The Best Knee-Length Pair of Denim Shorts:

Agolde

Nolan Denim Bermuda Shorts

Size Range: 23"-34"

Material: 100% cotton

Colours: White.

Pros

Incredibly roomy through the leg.

Cons

The white colourway is harder to maintain and keep in pristine condition.

8. & Other Stories Low-Waist Denim Mini Shorts

(Image credit: @avahgilchrist)

Style Notes: For a slightly cheekier look, I can’t go past this pair from & Other Stories. Sure, leading menswear trend-setters like Paul Mescal and Harry Styles have pioneered the rise of minuscule inseams, but it’s not a design element that has translated into womenswear just yet. (Instead, bubble shorts and bloomers reign supreme.) But for those who want their denim shorts to have a more Daisy Duke-like quality, these low-rise, ultra-cropped minis will do the trick.

The whiskered wash has a slight indie-sleaze quality, making them the perfect thing to pair with boots and a strappy white tank top on all your nights out. These certainly aren’t the style of shorts you want to wear into the office. (You’ll certainly risk a dress code violation with that move.) But with summer here, isn’t there something so fun and flirty about strolling about in a pair of denim shorts exclusively reserved for weekend frolicing?

Shop the Shorts:

Best Low-Rise Denim Shorts

& Other Stories

Low-Waist Denim Mini Shorts

Size Range: EU 32-44

Material: 79% cotton, 21% lyocell

Colours: Mid blue and washed black.

Pros

This ultra mini style is available in a lot of

Cons

The low-rise and high-cut might not be to everyone's taste levels.

What to Look Out for When Buying the Best Denim Shorts

Speaking to Rosie Ingleby, the London-based creative director and co-founder of Dala, she explains there are several things to look out for when shopping for the best pair of denim shorts. She mentions that factors like length, fabric and wash are important, but in a world so fixated on vintage jeans and nostalgia, one of the primary concerns should be that your denim shorts feel authentic to you. "This is such an important thing for me," Ingleby says. Otherwise, read our cheat sheet to finding the perfect pair of denim shorts below.

Size: Denim uses its own measurement scale. As a quick guide, the number listed, which is usually from size 23 -32, refers to the width of the jeans in inches, as measured around the hips. As a result, there's no real equivalent for translating between these sizes and the small, medium and large we're used to. That's why, especially when shopping online, it's best to carefully consider the size guide listed on the website. Your typical size might go across a few options, so be sure to read the fine print closely and see if they tend to size up or down. Remember, denim rarely offers any stretch, so it's always best to opt for a bigger size if you're unsure. Denim is much easier to shrink than it is to stretch.
Length: When shorts can fall anywhere from the upper thigh to just above the knee, you'll want to look for the inseam details to guarantee the item you're buying hits exactly where you intend it to. For the uninitiated, the inseam refers to the measurement from the crotch to the hem, so you should know for certain where on your leg they'll stop before you buy. If you're looking to invest in a pair for this summer, Ingleby tells me that "longer silhouettes" are rising in popularity, particularly "longer-line Bermuda lengths with a slightly higher rise."
Wash: Wash is another factor. The most polished shades are the most vibrant, whether a deeper, indigo blue or a crisp white. However, I make this caveat to note that the dye of some denim shorts can transfer in the wash. If you want to preserve the quality and colour of your denim shorts and avoid them staining your other items of clothing, wash them inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle and preferably with a colour-catcher sheet.

How We Tested

Who What Wear UK's editorial team, led by fashion writer Ava Gilchrist, began testing the best denim shorts by looking at sales data and shopping insights for the best-selling and most talked-about styles on the market. Looking at leading denim brands like Agolde and Citizens of Humanity, the team tried on the styles that had the most buzz to inspect them for quality, durability, comfort and cost-effectiveness. Then, after weeks of reviewing the styles, we tightened the edit to include the top eight styles we loved and genuinely recommend, landing on these styles showcased here.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

Meet the Experts

I Just Tried On COS's Cult Linen Trousers—They're Elegant, Heatwave-Proof and Selling Out Fast

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 05:40:00 +0000

Linen trousers are one of the summer staples you'll find in every great capsule wardrobe. They're polished yet relaxed, breezy enough for the varying temperatures and will rise to all occasions, whether you're heading to the office or packing up for your summer holidays. In the midst of yet another heatwave, I set about to find a pair of linen trousers that have a high-quality composition, a contemporary feel and a timeless colourway. Naturally, I turned to COS.

Florrie wears the COS Ribbed Cotton Tank Top (£15) and Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers (£75) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

If refined silhouettes, timeless designs and minimalist colourways feel like descriptors of your wardrobe, then COS is one high street brand that should be firmly on your radar. The brand is a favourite amongst editors and stylish people thanks to its offering of affordable pieces that could easily pass for designer, thanks to the attention to detail shown in composition and form. Over the years, the brand has been responsible for a series of cult buys from the beloved cashmere knits of winter to the highly sought-after summer staples. Now, the Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers are set to join the brand's best-sellers list.

The 100% linen composition sets these trousers up to be the perfect antidote to sweltering days. The pared-back design features clean lines and a soft barrel-leg silhouette, which updates these classic trousers for 2026. The elasticated waistband adds to the comfortable ease of these trousers, a necessity in the warmer months. After trying them on, I immediately imagined all the ways these would work hard in my wardrobe, paired with oversized shirts for the office, or thrown on with swimwear when heading from the beach to lunch. As the best COS buys tend to move fast, scroll on to shop the Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers, and shop more COS summer staples.

Shop the COS Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

COS

Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

The comfortable summer trousers I'll be living in this season.

Shop More COS Summer Staples

COS

Gathered Jersey Midi Dress

A great black dress to treasure every single summer.

COS

Wide-Leg Denim Shorts

Longline denim shorts look so sophisticated.

COS

Riviera Hand-Woven Tote Bag

COS

Silk Elasticated Shorts

I plan to copy and paste this look for my next holiday.

COS

Sculpted Pleated Linen Playsuit

An easy playsuit for the hottest days.

COS

Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Trousers

I've also tried these on and they're so good.

COS

Open-Collar Linen Mini Shirt Dress

A dress made to outlast the moving trends.

COS

Raw-Cut Cotton Midi Dress

Throw on with simple sandals and a basket bag and you're ready to go.

COS

Clean Cut T-Shirt

The perfect white Tee, imho.

COS

Piped Striped Cotton Shirt

A polished shirt will always be a worthwhile wardrobe addition.

COS

Ribbed Cotton Tank Top

This classic tank top comes in so many great colourways.

COS

Broderie Anglaise Cotton-Linen Skirt

Currently on my wish list.

COS

Cotton-Poplin Short-Sleeved Shirt Dress

Every COS piece is innately chic.

COS

Asymmetric Double-Faced Swimsuit

A summer hero.

COS

Sleeveless Cotton-Poplin Shirt Dress

Simple, yet so effective.

It's Official: These Are the 15 Most Popular COS Buys of Summer 2026

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 05:55:00 +0000

It will come as no surprise that COS features heavily in my wardrobe. Since its arrival on the British high street, the brand has carved out an aesthetic of clean lines, exquisite tailoring and high-quality staples that are often case and point for finding expensive-looking pieces on the high street. Whether you're searching for the perfect white T-shirt or adding a selection of elegant dresses to your collection, the brand executes refined minimalism with ease every single season. In turn, a series of It styles have already become cult buys for in-the-know fashion people this summer.

Florrie wears the COS Ribbed Tank Top (£15) and Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Trousers (£65) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

Whilst summer has only just officially begun, COS has been offering up the best of its warm-weather collection since the first ray of sunshine, and a series of sleek best-sellers have come to the fore. By striking the perfect balance of high-quality fabrics, intricate details, and considered silhouettes, COS makes its affordable pieces look like investment buys. This season, light cotton and breezy linen are applied to relaxed trousers and tailored shorts for an instantly polished effect. Dresses are formed in languid silhouettes and pared-back designs, ready to be accented with sleek accessories, like the new raffia basket bag that is on everyone's wish list.

Alongside, there are the classics. The perfectly cut T-shirt, the simple yet hard-working tank top and the loose linen shirts—staple summer buys that are worth spending a little more on as they'll earn their keep in your wardrobe for years to come. Now, I've rounded up the best-selling COS buys for summer 2026 to shop before they inevitably sell out.

Shop the COS Summer 2026 Best-Sellers

1. Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

This dress is so classic, you'll reach for it every summer.

2. Cotton Straight-Leg Trousers Drawstring Trousers

COS

Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Trousers

Comfortable, sleek and warm-weather ready.

3. Ribbed Cotton Tank Top

COS

Ribbed Cotton Tank Top

A simple tank top features in so many of my staple summer looks.

4. Pleated Belted Linen Shorts

COS

Pleated Belted Linen Shorts

COS does tailoring oh-so well.

5. Gathered-Neck Jersey Tank Top

COS

Gathered-Neck Jersey Tank Top

The soft ruching instantly elevates this top beyond the high street.

6. Riviera Hand-Woven Tote Bag

COS

Riviera Hand-Woven Tote Bag - Straw

Currently in my basket.

7. Gathered Jersey Dress

COS

Gathered Jersey Midi Dress

If you told me this was triple the price, I'd believe you.

8. Wide-Leg Denim Shorts

COS

Wide-Leg Denim Shorts

Long length shorts are a sophisticated summer staple.

9. Oversized Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt

COS

Oversized Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt

My linen is working overtime in this 30-degree heat.

10. Minimal Leather Sandals

COS

Minimal Leather Sandals

Act fast! These refined sandals are already selling out.

11. Ruched-Waist Midi Skirt

COS

Ruched-Waist Midi Skirt

This skirt will easily outlast the moving trends.

12. Clean Cut T-shirt

COS

Clean Cut T-Shirt

If you buy one white Tee this summer, make it this one.

13. Tailored Linen Mini Dress

COS

Tailored Linen Mini Dress

For those who prefer a mini.

14. Open-Back Halterneck Top

COS

Open-Back Halterneck Top

I'm pairing this top with jeans, linen, shorts and more.

15. Facade Straight-Leg Jeans

COS

Facade Straight-Leg Jeans

COS is known for its excellent denim selection. Opt for light washes in the summer months.

16. Folded Clutch Bag

COS

Folded Clutch Bag - Straw

This feels like such an elevated take on a straw bag.

Shop More Best-Selling High Street Buys

ZARA

Linen Blend Oversize Shirt With Frog Fastening

The viral jacket is back, now in a breathable linen version. Don't wait around, it's sold out once and has just been restocked in all sizes.

With Nothing Underneath

Andros Dress: Fine Poplin, White X Lucy Williams

Part of the collaboration with Lucy Williams, this dress is such a versatile style.

Massimo Dutti

Flowing Linen Blend Midi Dress

I turn back to fresh white dresses every single year and you can always rely on Massimo Dutti for sophisticated silhouettes.

Sezané

Justine Basket Bag

This bag has been popping up all over my Instagram feed.

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Strappy Top

Broderie anglaise is so timeless for summer.

COS

High-Rise Denim Shorts

Another COS buy that deserves highlighting.

Reformation

Jessie Thong Sandal

These come in 10 different colours and prints, it's clear why they're a bestseller.

M&S

Linen Rich Lace Insert Button Detail Blouse

The white iteration has completely sold out, but I think I prefer the brown anyway.

& Other Stories

Flared Linen Midi Dress - Light Yellow

Nothing says summer quite like sunny yellow.

H&M

Paper Bag Bermuda Shorts

I've tried these on and can confirm they're equally chic and comfortable.

I'm Bored of Zara—19 Expensive-Looking High-Street Finds I'm Shopping Instead This Summer

Marina Avraam — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0000

It's funny to admit that, even as a shopping editor, my answer to the question "Where's that from?" has, for the best part of a decade, almost always been "Zara." It's the place I've long relied on for expensive-looking high-street finds and the first place I check whenever I'm looking for something new. But after years of turning to it for everything from dresses to denim, I've realised it's time to broaden my shopping horizons.

Fortunately, spending my days analysing the high street, I know the exact brands that rival Zara in all the right ways, and I've narrowed it down to three: COS, Reformation and Mango. Each has carved out its own niche, and together they cover almost every wardrobe category I could want.

Monikh wearing Mango (Image credit: @monikh)

COS is unrivalled when it comes to elevated essentials—beautifully cut tailoring, minimalist handbags and polished basics that look far more expensive than their price tags suggest. Reformation, meanwhile, has become my go-to for effortless summer dressing, from the linen trousers that return every season to the dresses fashion people genuinely wear on repeat. Mango, on the other hand, consistently surprises me with elegant tailoring, premium-looking accessories and trend-led pieces that feel every bit as chic as their designer counterparts.

So, if, like me, you've found yourself refreshing Zara's new-in page one too many times, consider this your sign to cast the net a little wider. Ahead, I've rounded up the COS, Reformation and Mango pieces.

Shop The Best Pieces From COS, Mango and Reformation

COS

Piped Striped Cotton Shirt

A polished striped shirt with contrast piping that makes this classic feel instantly more elevated.

Reformation

Cecilia Linen Dress

An elegant linen dress that strikes the perfect balance between timeless and modern.

Reformation

Jessie Thong Sandal

Minimal leather sandals you'll wear with everything from tailoring to floaty summer dresses.

COS

Riviera Hand-Woven Tote Bag - Straw

This is already in my basket.

MANGO

Denim Bermuda Shorts With Buckle Detail

The butter yellow hue is simply perfect.

Reformation

Fraise Linen Dress

This linen dress is destined to become a summer favourite.

COS

Pleated Cotton-Linen Maxi Dress

The chic pleating and flowing silhouette make this an effortless one-and-done summer outfit.

Reformation

Olina Cropped Pant

The trousers have become a cult buy thanks to their impeccable cut and effortless versatility.

COS

Embroidered-Detail Linen Shorts

Beautiful embroidery transforms these linen shorts into a summer staple that feels decidedly premium.

MANGO

Asymmetric Textured Checkered Dress

The asymmetric neckline gives this elegant summer dress a modern, elevated edge.

COS

Frieze Bowling Bag - Leather

If you told me this was The Row, I'd believe you.

Reformation

Carolina Silk Skirt

An elegant silk skirt that instantly makes even a simple white T-shirt feel luxurious.

COS

Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Trousers

These are a true summer wardrobe hero.

MANGO

Leather Straps Sandals

A great designer-alt that will immediately elevate linen, shorts and skirts.

COS

Ruched-Waist Cotton-Jersey Tank Top

The subtle ruching immediately elevates this simple tank.

Reformation

Drew Linen Short

Beautifully tailored and endlessly versatile, these linen shorts are made for warm-weather dressing.

COS

Clean Cut T-Shirt

The fashion-person favourite for a reason.

Reformation

Roma Linen Dress

You'll get so much wear out of this minimalist black dress.

MANGO

Large Braided Leather Bag

The woven leather finish makes this spacious tote look remarkably luxurious.

MANGO

Linen Midi-Dress With Belt

The perfect summer work dress!

Suddenly, My Entire COS Wish List Is on Sale—9 Elegant Summer Buys That Will Sell Out First

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 05:55:00 +0000

As we officially move into the summer months, our wardrobes are working hard to keep up with the unpredictable weather. Looking chic and staying cool is my top priority right now, and already the high temperatures have exposed a few missing staples in my summer capsule wardrobe. Luckily, the summer sales have arrived just in time for us to update our wardrobes with sleek pieces for the new season. And finally, COS's summer sale has arrived, and I've found so many sleek buys you need to see.

Anouk wears the COS Sculpted Pleated Linen Midi Dress (was £169, now £110) (Image credit: @anoukyve)

The summer sales are officially upon us with savings on both current and cooler weather pieces. Personally, I love to stock up on pieces that will work in my wardrobe regardless of the current season, snapping up smart deals on capsule wardrobe staples and autumnal pieces that I'll be calling upon next season. But for the COS sale, we also have the chance to instantly update our summer looks with a touch of refinement that the brand has become known for.

Florrie wears the COS Embroidered Pima Cotton Midi Dress (was £119, now £88) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

To avoid impulse shopping during the sales season, I focus on pieces that I know I’ll feel comfortable in and will hold their place in my wardrobe for many years to come. Truthfully, the best sales buys are pieces you’d want to buy at full price, and aren’t just alluring because of a price reduction. So, I’ve meticulously scoured the best COS sale buys, focusing on the most elegant pieces that have longevity and refinement at their core. Think loose linen trousers, light shirts, and of course, a series of sleek dresses which can be restyled for day or evening. Alongside, there are a few accessories to pull your looks together, from elegant scarves to expensive-looking handbags. Altogether, you could create a designer-passing wardrobe with these sleek sale buys. As the best pieces tend to move fast, let’s get straight into it.

Shop the Best Summer Buys in the COS Summer Sale

COS

Bias-Cut Linen-Blend Midi Dress

COS does refined classics oh-so well.

COS

Cropped Wide-Leg Denim Trousers

These will instantly join my summer wardrobe.

COS

Embroidered Pima Cotton Midi Dress

This dress has already proven a hit this summer! Now you can snap it up for less.

COS

Rounded Pima Cotton Shirt

I can't stop thinking about the shade of this sleek shirt.

COS

Sculpted Pleated Linen Midi Dress

Anouk is wearing this exact dress above.

COS

Open-Collar Cotton-Poplin Shirt

I'm pairing this with jeans, linens and throwing over swimwear this summer.

COS

Pleated Belted Midi Dress

I'll be restyling this for work and weekends.

COS

Montmartre Bowling Bag - Leather

If you told me this was a designer buy, I'd believe you.

COS

Belted Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

I keep turning to barrel-leg silhouettes for a fresh wardrobe update.

Shop More Capsule Wardrobe Buys in the COS Summer Sale

COS

Dropped-Hem Cotton Midi Dress

This elegant style will outlast the moving trends.

COS

Arch Tapered Jeans

The Arch jeans are beloved by fashion people and editors alike.

COS

Tailored Merino Wool-Blend Mini Dress

I can't wait to recreate this look later this year.

COS

Twist-Detail Cotton Top

Simple yet so effective.

COS

Patch-Pocket Straight-Leg Jeans

I've styled these jeans above with a simple tank top to let these jeans take centre stage.

COS

Paradigm Tote Bag - Suede

This bag has been on my wish list for months! It looks so high end.

COS

Gathered Tiered Cotton Maxi Dress

The perfect throw on dress.

COS

Open-Collar Cotton-Poplin Shirt

A great shirt will work hard in your wardrobe for years to come.

COS

Off-The-Shoulder Merino Wool Jumper

The first piece I'll call upon when the weather cools down.

COS

Denim Wide-Leg Drawstring Trousers

A comfortable yet chic take on classic denim.

COS

Buttoned Pima Cotton Mini Dress

A breezy mini will work hard in your wardrobe every single year.

COS

Gallery Tote Bag - Croc-Effect Leather

Meet your new work tote.

COS

Cable-Knit Merino Wool Cardigan

For those cooler summer evenings.

Zara, H&M and COS Just Perfected Every Chic Summer Staple—9 Pieces Making Heatwave Dressing Instantly Elegant

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 05:45:00 +0000

The summer solstice marked the arrival of the new season, and in response, the temperatures are about to skyrocket. Right now, many of us are booking rooftop restaurants for the weekend, planning picnics in the park and adding fans to our Amazon basket (with a discount thanks to the Amazon Prime Day sale). Now, it's time to figure out what we're going to wear for the scorching hot days. Personally, I'm looking to Zara, H&M and COS to bring their innate elegance to warm-weather dressing, and make the stifling days exceedingly chic.

Anouk wears the COS Sculpted Pleated Linen Midi Dress (£169) (Image credit: @anoukyve)

This year, my goal is to take on the heat with a serious dose of sophistication. Of course, I have a few trusted outfits I go to, but this year I want to take them to a whole new level. Whilst a tank top and cut-off shorts can do the trick, there are plenty of elegant outfits that are just as breezy, but feel much more put-together. And that's where great summer staples come in.

Looking to our trust high street heroes, Zara, H&M, and COS have bolstered their summer offerings with a series of refined summer staples which make elegant dressing so easy, even on the hottest days. Light fabrics of cotton and linen bring an airy edge to all aspects of our wardrobes, allowing us to play with silhouette and proportion to make the hottest days both breezy and polished. The best thing about stocking up on summer staples is that they can be depended upon every single year. The airy linen trousers you buy for 2026 will hold their place for many years to come, just like the pretty dress you pair with simple sandals and a basket bag. As high temperatures are rare in this country, we all want to make the most of them, so forget scrolling for hours through the new-in sections. Instead, I've curated a refined edit of mix-and-match summer staples from Zara, H&M and COS that stylish people rely on every year to take on the heat. Now, scroll on to shop, and enjoy the sunshine!

Shop the 9 Chicest Zara, H&M and COS Summer Staples

H&M

Picot-Trimmed Cotton Dress

This is genuinely one of the prettiest high street dresses I've seen in a while.

H&M

Oversized Linen Shirt

A breezy shirt will serve your wardrobe every single year.

COS

Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Trousers

I've tried these exact trousers on and can confirm they're so chic and so breezy.

COS

Riviera Hand-Woven Tote Bag - Straw

This summer-ready tote is at the top of my wish list.

ZARA

Zw Collection Oversize Ramie Shirt

This whole outfit can be copied and pasted this summer.

H&M

Strappy Sandals

Sleek sandals will make any outfit a little more elevated.

ZARA

Midi Halter Neck Dress With Dots

This dress has flown out of stock so many times this season. Move fast, it's back!

ZARA

Embroidered Short Sleeve Blouse

Pretty blouses are making my jeans, shorts, and skirts instantly chicer.

H&M

Denim Bermuda Shorts

Longline shorts look so refined.

Shop More Chic Zara, H&M and COS Summer Buys

ZARA

Floral Embroidered Pleated Dress

An easy throw-on style for the hottest days.

COS

Ribbed Cotton Tank Top

A simple tank top will work hard in your wardrobe.

ZARA

Flowing Wide-Leg Trousers

Relaxed and comfortable.

COS

Sculpted Pleated Linen Midi Dress

Anouk wears this exact dress above.

H&M

Lace-Trimmed Viscose Top

This pretty top won't stick around for long.

ZARA

Zw Collection Flowing Trousers

These are already in my basket.

ZARA

Lace Camisole Midi Dress

This pretty dress will feel fresh every single summer.

COS

Boat-Neck Linen Blouse

The linen composition makes this a favourite in the warmer months.

COS

Drawstring Denim Shorts

This whole look is so good.

H&M

Ruched Linen-Blend Dress

A classic design with a punchy shade.

ZARA

Zw Collection Tunic Dress With Belt

So many of our editors have added this dress to their summer wardrobes.

H&M

Textured Wrap Top

Simple yet so effective.

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Cotton Beach Dress

The intricate Broderie anglaise is such a nice touch.

COS

Tailored Elasticated Linen Shorts

It doesn't get more classic than linen shorts.

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Strappy Top

No one will believe this pretty top is from the high street.

COS

Ruched-Waist Midi Skirt

Pair with simple tank tops, pretty blouses, loose silk tops and more.

COS

Fluted-Sleeve Cotton Blouse

The rich burgundy shade has all my attention.

COS

Ruched Dropped-Waist Poplin Midi Dress

It's hard to believe this is a high street buy.

ZARA

Zw Collection Lace Camisole Top

Just so pretty!

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Skirt

Take note of the intricate details on this skirt.

COS

Layered Drawstring Cotton-Poplin Shorts

This matching set is on my mind.

H&M

Draped Tunic Dress

I'm packing this for my next holiday.

COS

Open-Back Halterneck Top

A sleek top you can rely on every single year.

ZARA

Trf Low-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans

If you're wearing jeans, make sure their light wash and a relaxed fit.

If I Had Just £100 to Spend at Zara, COS and H&M This Month, These Are the 9 Elegant Pieces I'd Buy

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 05:50:00 +0000

With the high temperatures set to return, my calendar is steadily filling up with a series of al fresco plans. Park picnics are set for the weekend, spontaneous rooftop dinners are being squeezed into evenings, and now I'm readying my wardrobe to take on the heat in style. Looking expensive and staying cool this season are my main priorities, and my wardrobe is calling out for a few new additions to bring that final touch of polish to my summer looks. With £100 to spend, I turned to the brands that do expensive-looking high street buys so well: Zara, COS and H&M.

When putting together our summer wardrobes, it can be easy to think that you have to spend a serious amount of cash to embody an elegant summer mood. Actually, if you know where to look, there are plenty of high-end passing pieces that could convince any onlooker that you've invested a lot in your summer wardrobe. My first port of call is Zara, COS and H&M, each with its own specific way of creating expensive-looking pieces at a fraction of the price. Zara excels in intricate throw-on dresses and sweet blouses, whilst COS brings a luxurious edge through quality linen and cottons throughout. H&M's tailoring comes into its own in the warmer months, making it the place to go for smart trousers, longline Bermuda shorts and summer-ready denim.

Whilst the three have particular strengths, they all excel in various categories, and if you have the time to scroll through, there are a series of refined buys at affordable prices waiting to be discovered. If you don't have the hours to spend searching, I've done the hard part for you. From throw-on dresses to loose summer trousers, elevated accessories to classic shirts, scroll on to explore the expensive-looking Zara, COS and H&M buys that no one will believe cost under £100.

Shop the Best Under £100 Buys at Zara, COS and H&M

H&M

Flutter-Sleeved Lace-Trimmed Blouse

This pretty top is already proving to be very popular.

ZARA

Zw Collection Flowing Trousers

These trousers immediately went in my basket.

ZARA

Zw Collection Lace Midi Dress

No one will believe this dress is from the high street.

COS

Embroidered-Detail Linen Shirt

A linen shirt with a sweet twist.

H&M

Denim Bermuda Shorts

Longline silhouettes are making denim shorts even more polished this season.

COS

Sculpted Tote Bag - Paper

Nothing says summer quite like a raffia tote bag.

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Strappy Top

The pretty top to go with skirts, shorts, jeans and so much more.

COS

Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Trousers

These capsule trousers will work hard in your wardrobe every single year.

ZARA

Long Knit Crochet Dress

Throw on with sandals and basket bag for an instantly sophisticated outfit.

Shop More Under £100 Buys

ZARA

Zw Collection Embroidered Romantic Blouse

Zara has so many beautiful blouses this season.

COS

Linen Utility Bermuda Shorts

Sleek enough for the office and off-duty.

H&M

Ruched Linen-Blend Dress

This red dress has all my attention.

COS

Tie-Front Pleated Georgette Blouse

Restyle this flowing blouse throughout autumn too.

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Skirt

I did a double take when I saw this intricate Broderie anglaise skirt.

COS

Gathered Jersey Midi Dress

COS shows how intricate pleats can make a simple piece look so expensive.

H&M

Kitten-Heeled Sandals

I've already worn these so much this summer.

H&M

Oversized Linen Shirt

This shade is so rich looking.

COS

Tailored Linen Balloon-Leg Trousers

The silhouette of these trousers looks so high end.

H&M

Drawstring Detail Ramie Dress

This dress will outlast the moving trends.

ZARA

Zw Collection Lace Sarouel Trousers

This whole look is a 10/10!

H&M

Oversized Tie-Detail Blouse

I have this exact blouse and always get compliments when I wear it.

COS

Pleated Belted Linen Shorts

COS excels in tailoring again.

ZARA

Zw Collection Tunic Dress With Belt

This looks at least triple the price.

Surprise! These Gorgeous COS Items Are Currently Up to 50% Off Right Now

chinazor.offor@futurenet.com (Chinazor "Chichi" Offor) — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 16:00:18 +0000

If you love chic, elevated basics, then you're seriously in for a treat. COS is currently having a huge sale. Right now, you can score up to 50% off a range of versatile, sophisticated staples for summer. Since I don't believe in gatekeeping, I've utilized my shopping-editor expertise to dig through the sales offerings just for you.

In the mix, you can expect beautiful linen pieces, including pants, tops, and dresses, as well as the perfect everyday T-shirt and relaxed jeans that will earn you endless compliments. Ahead, shop deeply discounted pieces (prices below include the discount), and remember, these amazing deals won't last very long. Keep scrolling. Your summer wardrobe refresh is just around the corner.

Shop the Best COS Sale Items

COS

Dropped-Hem Cotton Midi Dress

COS

Waisted Cotton T-Shirt

COS

Twine Barrel-Leg Jeans

COS

Saltwater Tote Bag in Straw

COS

Waisted Cotton Midi Dress

COS

Curved Shoulder Bag in Straw

COS

Folded-Sleeve Linen Shirt

COS

Rounded Merino Wool Maxi Dress

COS

Sculpted Straw Bucket Hat

COS

Open-Stitch Wrap Skirt

COS

Buttoned Milano-Knit Mini Dress

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

COS

Cotton T-Shirt

COS

Button-Down Collar Linen Shirt

COS

Belted Linen Barrel-Leg Pants

COS

Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Pants

COS

Flared Denim Mini Dress

COS

Cropped Trench Coat Cape

COS

Seersucker Culottes

COS

Gathered Pima Cotton Blouse

COS

Sculpted Cotton Midi Dress

COS

Pleated Cotton Pants

COS

Waisted Cotton Midi Dress

COS

Tailored Elasticated Linen Shorts

COS

Cropped Wide-Leg Denim Pants

COS

Linen Tank Top

COS

Twist-Detail Midi Skirt

The New Arrivals at COS Are Incredibly Chic—25 Picks That Scream Wealthy European Summer

lefashionimage@gmail.com (Jennifer Camp Forbes) — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 15:39:31 +0000

I may or may not be manifesting the European vacation of my dreams, so when I saw the new arrivals at COS, I was more than delighted. The latest drop from the June collection is full of pieces that have "quiet luxury vacation" written all over them. It's no surprise, as the brand is well-known and loved for its elevated sensibilities at a reasonable price point, which keeps us all coming back for more.

I curated a quick list of my top summer-ready picks. This includes an array of standout dresses, tops, skirts, shorts, and accessories in luxe-looking linen, silk, and cotton. Each find is effortless in its own right and timeless to boot. Keep scrolling to check out the wealthy-looking pieces, and bring on the chic summer outfits.

Shop Chic New Arrivals From COS

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Skirt

A versatile black skirt.

COS

Paneled Mini Dress

An effortless dress.

COS

Slim Rectangular Sunglasses

Sleek sunglasses are top of mind.

COS

Cotton Straight-Leg Drawstring Pants

Simple yet cool.

COS

Ribbed Cotton Tank Top

A basic worth stocking up on.

COS

Minimal Leather Sandals

Timeless summer sandals.

COS

Raw-Cut Cotton Midi Dress

Quiet luxury comes to mind.

COS

Saltwater Tote Bag

A bag you'll wear forever.

COS

Ruched Dropped-Waist Poplin Midi Dress

Loving the square neckline.

COS

Layered Ribbed-Jersey T-Shirt

Layered-looking basics feel fresh.

COS

Color-Block Scuba Bikini Top

This contrast swimsuit is selling out fast.

COS

Polka-Dot Silk Scarf

Headscarf season.

COS

Embroidered-Detail Linen Shorts

Such cute shorts.

COS

Mini Cavatelli Clutch Bag

Noticing my appreciation for mellow yellow yet?

COS

Oval Sunglasses

Classic sunglasses for every occasion.

COS

Pleated Belted Linen Shorts

Perfect for a pop of color.

COS

Sculpted Cotton Midi Dress

Elegant and understated.

COS

Boat-Neck Linen Blouse

The neckline!

COS

Oversized Folded Clutch Bag

A cool summer clutch.

COS

Sheer Lace-Knit Dress

Sheer pieces are perfect for warmer weather.

COS

Polka-Dot Silk Scarf

Another standout scarf.

COS

Triangle Bikini Top

This never goes out of style.

COS

Gathered Jersey Midi Dress

Pretty in pink.

COS

Lace-Trimmed Cotton Shorts

Endless styling possibilities.

COS

Pleated Cotton-Linen Maxi Dress

A designer-looking dress.

I Gasped—Zara, COS and Abercrombie Quietly Dropped the Most Expensive-Looking Summer Buys

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 05:50:00 +0000

The grey skies and influx of rain weren't exactly what we imagined when the high summer temperatures arrived, but if you need a silver lining, I've found it. The launch into summer dressing was swift and sticky, with a ten-degree jump that forced our wardrobes to shift seasons in an instant, even if they weren't quite ready. Whilst the British weather takes this time to show its full range, I'm using this respite from the heat to take a step back and assess my summer wardrobe.

Florrie wears the Abercrombie Bra-Free Dylan Midi Dress (£90) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

The first glimpse of high summer temperatures put our wardrobes to the test. And now, we've got a chance to take note of how our outfits fared on the scorching hot days. Already, I've found I'm missing a staple summer shoe that works with every outfit, a reliable pair of linen shorts for the hottest days, and a few more throw-on dresses that can move between the office and off-duty plans with ease.

In my search to fill these summer wardrobe gaps, I found that three high street brands in particular are excelling in expensive-looking summer staples. Zara, COS and Abercrombie have ticked off a series of chic summer staples. Think the kinds of pieces that can be mixed and matched throughout the season to create endless chic looks, and still feel fresh next summer when you pull them out of your wardrobe once more. As the best high street pieces tend to move fast, let's get straight into the sleek summer buys that have just arrived at Zara, COS and Abercrombie.

Shop the Best New-In Buys From Zara, COS and Abercrombie

ZARA

Midi Dress With Cutwork Embroidery

If you want an outfit that is elevated, put-together and takes less than five minutes to put on, this one's for you.

Abercrombie

Poplin Barrel Pull-On Pant

The shape of these trousers feels so modern.

ZARA

Lace Trim Striped Top

Wear relaxed with loose trousers or pair with sophisticated tailored shorts.

Abercrombie

100% Linen Lace Cutwork Shift Mini Dress

Trust me, this throw on dress has such a designer feel, it won't stay in stock.

COS

Riviera Hand-Woven Tote-Bag

There are a lot of straw bags around, but COS brings a high-end feel to this style with contrasting black and natural raffia, and elongated straps for added ease.

COS

Linen Utility Bermuda Shorts

The grown-up, sophisticated way to add shorts into your summer outfits.

Abercrombie

Lace-Trim Cinched Button-Through Cami

I want this pretty top in every shade.

ZARA

Straight Leg Trousers With Belt

This neutral shade is calling my name.

Abercrombie

Bra-Free Cap Sleeve Dipped Waist Midi Dress

Abercrombie's dress collection is so strong right now, but I can't stop thinking about this soft cherry shade.

COS

Embroidered-Detail Linen Shirt

If you're looking to take your linen shirt outfits to a whole new level, it's time to consider COS's delicate embroidery style.

ZARA

Flat Leather Sandals

Everywhere I look, stylish people are trading in their trainers for sleek summer sandals.

ZARA

Henley Knit Jumper

For those cooler summer days, make sure you have a light knit to hand.

Abercrombie

Convertible Crinkle Balloon Pull-On Pant

Easily switch between a striking balloon-leg silhouette and wide-leg shape.

COS

Gathered-Neck Jersey Tank Top

This also comes in black and pink. I'll take all three.

Abercrombie

High Rise Barrel Olive Jean

I watched these exact jeans fly out of stock. I won't miss out a second time.

COS

Gathered Jersey Midi Dress

COS shows that intricate ruching can take a piece from simple to extraordinary without breaking the bank.

Abercrombie

Flutter Sleeve Slash Top

The pretty top that jeans, linens and skirts were made for.

Abercrombie

Curve Love High Rise Dad Short

Relaxed denim shorts come back every single year.

COS

Minimal Leather Sandals

No matter the trends, these refined COS sandals will always look the part.

COS

Cropped Wide-Leg Denim Trousers

There's something very French about these jeans.

COS

Tailored Linen Mini Dress

Throw on, add sandals, and head out the door.

ZARA

Linen Blend Shirt With Puff Hem

A modern take on a classic.

Abercrombie

100% Linen High Rise Maxi Skirt

This joyful blue shade will be welcome in any summer wardrobe.

ZARA

Voluminous Flowing Halter Dress

Every time this dress restocks, it sells out. Don't wait around if you're interested.

ZARA

Zw Collection Embroidered Romantic Blouse

There's always room for another romantic blouse in my wardrobe.

COS

Tailored Linen Balloon-Leg Trousers

The shape of these linen trousers is truly exquisite.

My Millennial Mum and I Don't Agree on Much, But We Both Love These New-In Zara, Mango and COS Styles

Ava Gilchrist — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 10:52:36 +0000

My mum is the person in my life that I turn to for almost anything—advice on the big-picture parts of my life, insights into how to navigate a sticky situation, or even just mundane matters like recommendations on what to cook for dinner.

We’re incredibly close, courtesy of there being only 17 years between us, but where I don’t seek her insights is when it comes to suggestions on style. Don’t get me wrong, she’s always incredibly complimentary on whatever I wear and loves getting dressed up as much as I do, but given I’ve been a fashion writer for close to a decade, she really leans on my expertise when it comes to building her wardrobe and honing her taste.

Where we diverge, however, is in the specific styles of clothes we gravitate towards. Though there’s a very small age gap, those years seem to be magnified whenever we hit the high street, with her drawn towards more classic silhouettes appropriate for a 44-year-old, whilst I run straight towards contemporary shapes suitable for a 26-year-old.

Who What Wear UK writer, Ava Gilchrist (26), and her mum, Krystalla (44), have a 17-year age gap. But how does this generational divide fare when they're tasked with finding new-in, high-street finds that they'd both wear? (Image credit: @avahgilchrist)

“I like to wear clothes that look and feel luxurious, without necessarily the expensive price tag to match, and make me feel confident and empowered when I walk out the door,” she tells me. “I don’t really follow trends, but now as I get older, I’m trying to build my wardrobe with specific items tailored to each season, as well as timeless pieces I can wear all year round.”

On the contrary, I’m someone who isn’t afraid of subverting sartorial archetypes and often am pulled towards pieces that are eclectic, romantic and a little vintage-inspired. (If she had kept any of her clothes from the ‘90s, you can rest assured that I’d be wearing them today.)

In saying this, there are some things that we agree on, despite her attitudes towards fashion being extremely Millennial and mine Gen Z. Most days you’ll find us sending links to one another of treasures we’ve uncovered whilst online shopping, and it was during one of these exchanges that I realised we were regularly sending each other the same exact pieces, even if we would wear them totally different.

Whether you’d like to call this mother-daughter bonding or not, we decided to set ourselves the challenge to pursue our favourite stores and pick out the styles we both approve of. Some of them sat in our wish list, whilst others we purchased on the spot, with the plans to share them. (Unfortunately, she’s two sizes bigger than me in shoes, otherwise we certainly would’ve picked up some dreamy flats and sandals, too.)

Ahead, you’ll find a new-in shopping edit across Zara, Mango and COS that both over-40s and over-20s agree on. Regardless if you buy these or not, I implore you to send this list to the maternal figure in your life and take on this test for yourself. Trust me, you’ll find you have far more in common, at least when it comes to clothes, than you first realised.

Shop New-In Pieces From Zara

ZARA

Zw Collection Striped Shirt With Frog Fastening

From the pinstripes to the frog closures, we both lusted over this blouse immediately.

ZARA

Buttoned Knit Jumper

Fine knits are inherently balmy, and we both can see ourselves easily sharing this style.

ZARA

Straight Fit Blazer With Shoulder Pads and Two Buttons

Perfect for office days, evenings out and everything in between.

ZARA

Straight High-Waist Jeans

Denim is indispensable when it comes to daily dressing.

ZARA

Draped Balloon Top

When it comes to trends, polka dots are a style we can both get behind.

ZARA

Striped Cotton and Linen T-Shirt

Effortless basics like this will resonate with anyone, regardless of their age and own personal style.

ZARA

Zw Collection Flowing Shirt

Shirting is a shared favourite, and this silky, butter yellow style looks divine.

ZARA

Zw Collection Limited Edition Flare Leather Trousers

I did have to do some convincing, but considering just how much my mum adores Victoria Beckham, all I had to do was tell her leather trousers come Posh Spice approved.

ZARA

Zw Collection 100% Silk Bib Shirt

Effortlessly sophisticated, this tuxedo-inspired shirt pairs perfectly with straight-leg jeans and architec

ZARA

Soft Knit Cardigan

Knitwear is one of my mum's favourite categories, so it's no surprised she loved this soft-knit cargidan.

Shop New-In Pieces From Mango

MANGO

Fitted Waist Jacket

My mum has no clue what Eckhaus Latta is—I had the privilege of telling her it's one of the coolest independent fashion brands based in New York City—but she knows this single-breasted blazer is chic.

MANGO

100% Linen Dress With Stitch Detailing

Just so dreamy.

MANGO

Check Asymmetrical Dress

My mum has a secret soft spot for grunge bands like Nirvana and Silverchair, so this Marc Jacobs for Perry Ellis-esque checked dress certainly appealed to her.

MANGO

Straight Mid-Rise Trousers

Polished and poised, this style defies the trend cycle.

MANGO

Large Braided Leather Bag

My mum's cryptonie? Leather accessories, so this style was right up both our alleys.

MANGO

Straight Striped Trousers

She's a sucker for anything pink, so I knew these would go right in her basket.

MANGO

Lyocell Suit Waistcoat

Tailored and neutral.

MANGO

Leather Sandals With a Wide Strap

Ok, I know I said we never share shoes, but these we so nice we both had to get them.

MANGO

Asymmetric Cotton Trousers

This small but effective asymmetrical detailing elevates a simple pair of trousers.

MANGO

Croc-Effect Midi-Skirt

This looks like something you'd find at St. Agni or Khiate.

Shop New-In Pieces From COS

COS

Gathered Jersey Midi Dress

The ruching

COS

Colour-Block Scuba Tank Swimsuit

Perfect for those holidays on the horizon.

COS

Sculpted Tote Bag

An anything-but-boring basic.

COS

Open-Back Halterneck Top

This crepe-esque fabric complements lightweight linens and soft cottons.

COS

Cotton V-Neck Tank Top

This style will pair well with any considered staple.

COS

Open-Stitch Satin Cami Top

This art deco-inspired cami is so graceful.

COS

Open-Stitch Wrap Skirt

We both agreed it looks best styled with this navy skirt.

COS

Raffia Bucket Hat

A style that fulfils both our '90s rom com fantasies.

COS

Pleated Cotton-Linen Midi Skirt

This skirt is delicate but detailed.

COS

Sculpted Textured Mini Dress

A dream.

Every Summer, Stylish Women Wear Elegant Basics From This High-Street Brand—9 Chic Staples Worth Knowing

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Thu, 28 May 2026 05:55:00 +0000

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) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

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

COS

Gathered-Neck Jersey Tank Top

It's amazing how effective a neckline update can be.

COS

Tailored Linen Mini Dress

Throw this dress on with simple sandals and head straight into the sunshine.

COS

Tailored Linen Balloon-Leg Trousers

The shape of these trousers is exquisite—they'll sell out fast.

COS

Minimal Leather Sandals

These look both comfortable and refined.

COS

Ruched Dropped-Waist Poplin Midi Dress

I've tried this dress on and can confirm its even better in person.

COS

Oversized Short-Sleeved Cotton Shirt

A simple piece to depend upon year after year.

COS

Buckle-Detail Linen Balloon-Leg Trousers

COS is known for its excellent tailoring.

COS

Saltwater Tote Bag - Straw

This is currently at the top of my wish list.

COS

Gathered Jersey Midi Dress

Who knew gathered fabrics could be so effective.

Shop More COS Summer Basics

COS

Clean Cut T-Shirt

Every stylish person I know depends on the COS Clean Cut T-shirt.

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Skirt

This also comes in classic black.

COS

Button-Down Collar Linen Shirt

No matter the season, no matter the year, you'll find a way to wear a great linen shirt.

COS

Barrel-Leg Pima Cotton Trousers

The shape of these trousers has put them firmly on my wish list.

COS

Bias-Cut Linen-Blend Midi Dress

This shade is everything!

COS

Cavatelli Clutch Bag

COS's best-selling clutch now comes in a raffia form.

COS

Sculpted Pleated Linen Playsuit

This easy playsuit will feel fresh every single time you wear it.

COS

Gathered Tiered Cotton Maxi Dress

A soft butter yellow to celebrate the sunshine.

COS

Wide-Brim Raffia Hat

Make a statement this summer.

COS

Cotton V-Neck Tank Top

The v-neck is a nice twist on the tank top.

COS

Ruched-Waist Shorts

I'm turning to shorts every time the sun comes out.

COS

Embroidered Pima Cotton Midi Dress

I'm wearing this exact dress above.

COS

Open-Back Halterneck Top

The hatlerneck back is such a standout.

COS

Paradigm Mini Tote Bag

If you told me this was designer, I'd believe you.

COS

Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

I live in white trousers every single summer.

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

The high neck and sleek length means you can restyle this dress from work to weekend.

I'm Living in Dresses This Heatwave—12 Zara, H&M and COS Styles That Are Already Selling Fast

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Fri, 22 May 2026 05:50:00 +0000

We’re officially in the midst of a heatwave, and all I want to wear is a breezy dress. Now that the sunshine has arrived, I’m returning to one of the most reliable summer blueprints—dress, sandals, basket bag. Having tracked down the best basket bags around and waded through the influx of new sandals to find the sleekest styles, it's not time to turn our attention to sleek dresses. After hours of searching, I’ve found the very best summer dresses at Zara, H&M and COS.

Florrie wears the COS Embroidered Pima Cotton Midi Dress (£119) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

This trifecta of high street brands is known for expensive-looking dresses. Turning their attention to enduring colourways, elegant silhouettes and refined design details, a selection of the summer dresses could easily pass for triple the price. Hunting through the new-in sections to find these standout styles can take hours, but I've taken one for the team, curating an edit of the very best below to give you more time in the sunshine.

Whether you're more of a minimalist or dialling up the drama with boho embellishments, there's something in this edit for you. For summer 2026, COS leans into refined silhouettes with pared-back designs to ensure they hold their contemporary feel year after year. At Zara, playful updates come in the form of polka-dot prints, pointelle knitwork, and intricate embroidery that add a romantic mood to summer dressing. Finally, H&M is bringing refinement to the fore with a focus on silhouette. Look to smocked bodices, draped fabrics, and refined halternecks that make these high-street dresses incredibly sophisticated. Now, I've rounded up the chicest summer dresses at Zara, H&M and COS for summer 2026.

Best Zara, H&M and COS Summer Dresses

ZARA

Midi Dress With Cutwork Embroidery

If you think the front is pretty, just wait until you see the back!

COS

Embroidered Pima Cotton Midi Dress

I've already received so many compliments on this sleek COS dress.

H&M

Flared-Skirt Halterneck Dress

One of the sleekest dresses I've seen in a long time.

ZARA

Flowing Dots Dress

A joyful injection into any summer wardrobe.

H&M

Linen-Blend Strappy Dress

This refined style also comes in a deep navy.

H&M

Braid-Detail Tunic Dress

This entire outfit looks designer.

ZARA

Embroidered Ruffled Mini Dress

An easy mini dress that can be restyled from the city to the seaside.

COS

Jersey-Panelled Nylon Mini Dress

I've worn this exact dress with simple ballet flats, elegant sandals and dressed up with mules.

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

This dress will earn its keep in your forever wardrobe.

COS

A-Line Linen-Blend Maxi Dress

The hard part is choosing between the navy and burgundy versions.

H&M

Drawstring-Detail Ramie Dress

I genuinely did a double take when I saw this rich-looking dress.

ZARA

Pointelle Knit Dress With Ruffles

This dress has seamlessly slipped into my summer wardrobe.

Shop More Summer Dresses

ZARA

Long Strappy Dress

Simple, yet so effective.

COS

Dropped-Hem Cotton Midi Dress

This shade is exquisite.

ZARA

Zw Collection Poplin Pleated Dress

If you're looking for refined silhouettes, this is for you.

H&M

Cotton Tunic Dress

I can already see this dress selling out fast.

H&M

Denim Midi Dress

A contemporary take on the denim dress.

ZARA

Linen Blend Midi Dress With Belt

Elegant enough to wear to the office.

COS

Ruched-Waist Cotton-Jersey Midi Dress

The ruched-waist creates such a sleek silhouette.

H&M

Smocked Flared-Skirt Dress

The drop waist sets this smocked style apart from the rest.

H&M

Flared-Skirt Halterneck Dress

Call upon this sophisticated style year after year.

ZARA

Corsetry-Inspired Poplin Midi Dress

Just add sandals and a basket bag.

COS

Puff-Sleeve Cotton Mini Dress

Celebrate the sunshine with this sunny shade.

COS

Belt-Detail Midi T-Shirt Dress

I know this dress is about to become a best-seller for the brand.

ZARA

Midi Dots Linen Blend Dress

With a touch of linen to bring an airy feel on the hottest days.

COS

Sculpted Pleated Linen Midi Dress

The perfect throw-on style.

ZARA

Embroidered Textured Midi Dress

The intricate embroidery makes it hard to believe this dress is from the high street.

My Friend Gave Me a Strict Budget to Update Her Summer Wardrobe—9 Zara, H&M and COS Buys I Chose

Marina Avraam — Thu, 21 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

With talk of an imminent heatwave, my group chats have, unsurprisingly, descended into a flurry of sunny plans—beer gardens, park picnics and, of course, the all-important question: what are we actually wearing in 25-degree heat? As ever, the conversation quickly turned to the pieces worth investing in right now, and I found myself replying with a tightly edited list from the three high-street brands I always come back to: Zara, H&M and COS.

Each has its own strength. COS continues to lead the way when it comes to elevated summer basics (the Clean Cut T-shirt remains a quiet hero), alongside the kind of polished, expensive-looking accessories that instantly pull an outfit together. Zara, meanwhile, is where I turn for easy, trend-driven pieces—throw-on dresses, standout silhouettes and those slightly more directional styles that still feel wearable. And H&M? It consistently delivers on beautifully cut linen, from tailored trousers to lightweight shirts that make warm-weather dressing feel effortless.

Sarah wearing COS Bermuda Shorts. (Image credit: @sarahlouiseblythe)

Collectively, they prove that the high street is awash with pieces that look far more premium than their price tags suggest, if you know where to look. So whether you’re after a fresh pair of linen trousers, a chic summer dress or a raffia bag that works just as well in the city as it does on holiday, these are the Zara, H&M and COS buys I’d recommend right now

Shop The Best Zara, H&M and COS Summer Buys

COS

Clean Cut T-Shirt

The ultimate wardrobe foundation.

ZARA

Midi Dress With Dots

Playful but polished.

H&M

Linen-Blend Trousers

H&M linen trousers are elite.

H&M

Broderie-Anglaise Cotton Popover Shirt

Instantly smarten up denim with this broderie cotton blouse.

COS

Barrel-Leg Pima Cotton Trousers

Relaxed but refined, the barrel shape gives them that subtle fashion edge without sacrificing comfort.

H&M

Linen Halterneck Dress

The halterneck detail and chocolate brown hue add instant polish.

COS

Ribbed Cotton Tank Top

A layering essential you’ll wear on repeat.

ZARA

Flat Leather Sandals

So rich-looking.

COS

Sculpted Dropped-Waist Midi Dress

The dropped waist creates a silhouette that feels directional yet wearable.

ZARA

Zw Collection 100% Linen Fireman Clasp Shirt

An elegant shirt with a unique Scandi-inspired fireman clasp detail.

ZARA

Z1975 Mid-Waist Barrel Jeans With Turn-Up Hems

Relaxed denim with a cool, off-duty feel.

COS

Saltwater Tote Bag - Straw

Your summer carry-all.

H&M

Wide Wrap-Detail Trousers

These striped trousers give off that relaxed, expensive-looking feel.

COS

Gathered-Neck Jersey Tank Top

A slightly more elevated version of a classic tank..

H&M

Linen-Blend Strappy Dress

A sleek silhouette that works just as well day as it does night.

ZARA

Braided Clutch Bag

A great designer alt.

H&M

Cape-Detail Jersey Dress

This is so expensive-looking.

COS

Cropped Barrel-Leg Cotton Trousers

Easy, cropped and slightly oversized in all the right ways.

ZARA

Linen Blend Jacket With Fireman Clasp

Linen jackets are perfect for cooler summer evenings.

COS

Puff-Sleeve Cotton Mini Dress

The perfect dress for warm days.

H&M

Ankle-Length Linen-Blend Trousers

A classic done well.

ZARA

Flat Sandals With Metal Details

The metal details make these feel so premium.

H&M

Linen-Blend Waistcoat

So elegant.

ZARA

Zw Collection Satin Halter Dress

Sleek, minimal and made for summer evenings.

H&M

Braid-Detail Dress

The braided detail adds a more premium feel.

ZARA

Belted Darted Bermuda Shorts

A polished alternative to casual shorts.

ZARA

Metallic Thread Striped Wide-Leg Trousers

A subtle statement trouser that you'll wear all summer long.

These Expensive-Looking High-Street Buys Are Giving "I'm a Chic Parisienne"

Brittany Davy — Sun, 17 May 2026 05:00:00 +0000

As a born and raised Londoner, I’m not ashamed to admit that I look to the French fashion girls for outfit inspiration more often than not. Whether they’re chilling out down in the south of France or rushing around the busy city of Paris with a coffee in hand, they just have a way of making everything look expensive. So on my most recent trip to the city, I made sure to pay extra attention to the fashion staples that the most polished Parisians were wearing.

And naturally, the second I was back here in the UK, I decided to turn to the high street to search for the French-coded buys I’ll be adding to my capsule wardrobe this summer. Almost immediately, my basket was filled with a myriad of French-it-girl-inspired items that are stylish, easy to style and, most importantly, look way more expensive than their high street price tags. My personal advice on mastering the art of Gallic dressing? Focus on elevated silhouettes in versatile hues that manage to seamlessly balance both on-trend appeal and a timeless aesthetic. But if you’re looking for a quick way to dress like an elegant French girl this summer, then luckily for you, I’ve rounded up 27 of the chicest French-girl-approved high-street shopping picks to add to your basket this summer.

Happy shopping!

27 French-Girl-Approved High-Street Shopping Picks

ZARA

Printed Polka Dot Blouse

COS

Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

M&S

Leather Flat Square Toe Flip Flops

COS

Embroidered Pima Cotton Midi Dress

M&S

Cotton Blend Lace Detail Waisted Top

H&M

Wide High Jeans

H&M

Oversized Linen Shirt

& Other Stories

Crossover Sandals

COS

Twist-Detail Jersey Midi Dress

french connection

Cooper Linen Tailored Button Front Cami Top

MANGO

Medium Natural Fibre Tote Bag

ZARA

Layered Midi Skirt

Abercrombie

A&f Bra-Free Dylan Midi Dress

pull&bear

Low-Rise Denim Jorts

H&M

Kitten-Heeled Sandals

Whistles

Swing Linen Mini Dress

Free People

Woven Bucket Bag

COS

Chord Straight-Leg Jeans

MANGO

A-Line Linen Dress

ZARA

Braided Top Ballet Flats

Whistles

Linen Waistcoat

Boden

Super Soft Flexi Loafers

Abercrombie

A&f Sloane Linen-Blend Tailored Wide Leg Pant

& Other Stories

Flared Midi Dress

H&M

Lace-Trimmed Blouse

Free People

Deep Trance Jeans

Kipling

Naomi Tote

I’m Officially Only Wearing Dresses Until September—22 Zara, COS and Mango Styles Selling Fast

Marina Avraam — Thu, 14 May 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Whilst the lingering chill in the air may still be trying to convince us otherwise, summer is very much here. Now, sandals have replaced loafers, linen has taken over from denim, and dresses have once again become the backbone of our wardrobes.

As a shopping editor, I’m constantly asked where to find elegant, affordable dresses that actually look expensive—and while I hate sounding repetitive, I always come back to the same three brands: Zara, COS and Mango. Between them, they’ve quietly mastered summer dressing, each offering something slightly different, but equally essential.

Zara excels at balancing timeless staples with more trend-led silhouettes, from airy cotton dresses and romantic lace-trim styles to elevated holiday pieces that feel far more premium than their price tags suggest. COS, meanwhile, takes a more minimal approach, focusing on sculptural shapes, clean lines and premium-feeling fabrics that give its dresses that quiet luxury appeal fashion people love. Then there’s Mango, which consistently delivers on easy, feminine summer dresses—think soft draping, playful polka dots and elegant occasion styles that work brilliantly for weddings, holidays and everything in between.

Keep scrolling to shop the best Zara, COS and Mango dresses for summer 2026.

Shop The Best Summer Dresses from Zara, COS and Mango Dresses for 2026

MANGO

Ruffle Dress With Bead Detail - Women | Mango United Kingdom

This simply exudes elegance.

COS

Jersey-Panelled Nylon Mini Dress

Elegant, understated and ideal for summer outings.

COS

Linen Mini Shift Dress

A clean, minimalist mini dress you’ll wear on repeat in hot weather.

MANGO

Strapless Dress With Broderie Anglaise Embroidery

The broderie anglaise detailing gives this strapless silhouette a timeless, expensive-looking feel.

ZARA

Corsetry-Inspired Poplin Midi Dress

A crisp cotton dress that makes summer dressing feel instantly polished.

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

From the drop waist design to the high-neck finish, this reads so expensive.

MANGO

Ruched Long Dress

An easy option for summer occasions that still feels comfortable.

ZARA

Flowing Halterneck Midi Dress

Floaty, dramatic and made for warm evenings. The halter neckline and voluminous silhouette make this feel especially elevated.

ZARA

Combined Linen Blend Midi Dress

An easy linen-blend dress that's relaxed yet refined, and perfect for heatwaves.

COS

Sculpted Dropped-Waist Midi Dress

The dropped waist makes this feel especially fashion-forward.

MANGO

Gingham Check Halter Dress

Classic and easy to wear, with gingham panels that create beautiful movement through the skirt. A very elegant daytime option.

ZARA

Asymmetric Camisole Dress

I can't believe this is Zara.

COS

Dropped-Hem Cotton Midi Dress

Such a pretty powder pink that's perfect for summer.

ZARA

Midi Dress With Cape Skirt

The perfect everyday dress.

ZARA

Metallic Detail Midi Dress

A sleek option for dinners, holidays or summer events.

COS

Sculpted Gathered Jersey Midi Dress

One of those deceptively simple dresses that looks incredibly expensive on.

MANGO

Asymmetrical Pleated Dress

A simple mini that ticks every summer wardrobe box.

ZARA

Flowing Lace Dress

The lace trim gives it that expensive-looking finish Zara does so well.

ZARA

Polka Dot Halter Midi Dress

Playful without feeling overly sweet. The halter neckline balances out the delicate polka-dot print perfectly.

COS

Fringed-Hem Knitted Column Dress

The perfect holiday beach dress you can wear over a bikini and flip-flops during the day, or with heels and a beaded bag come dinner time.

The Chicest Women I Know All Get Their Summer Dresses From This High-Street Brand—These 5 Styles Are Selling Fast

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Wed, 13 May 2026 05:55:00 +0000

The ease of the spring and summer months can be summed up in a great dress. Simply thrown on with a pair of sandals and a summer basket bag can result in an instantly polished look in under five minutes, giving us as much time as possible to soak up the sunshine when it arrives. With summer on its way, bolstering my dress collection is at the forefront of my mind, and with a series of sightings of stylish people as well as recommendations from my fellow editors, I knew that COS should be my first stop.

Anouk wears the COS Sculpted Pleated Linen Midi Dress (Image credit: @anoukyve)

COS is well-renowned amongst fashion people for bringing expensive-looking pieces to the high street. From the perfect white Tee to exquisitely tailored trousers, the brand brings a keen eye for detail at every turn. Now that the summer months are on the horizon, COS has launched its new collection with a series of sleek dresses that exude elegance and timelessness, whether you're seeking out the ultimate throw-on maxi dress or a sweet mini dress for the warmest days.

Danielle wears the COS Ruched Drop-Waist Dress (Image credit: @daniellejinadu)

Yesterday, I decided to test COS's new arrivals in person. After hours in the changing room, I found that five styles impressed me the most, from the expert proportions to the classic colourways, and yes, a few did end up joining my forever wardrobe. For COS, it's not just about an elegant design but also about high-quality fabrics, contemporary details that outlast shifting trends, and a high-end feel at affordable prices. Whether your office looks need a summery update or you're starting your packing list for your next trip abroad, you'll want to explore COS's best summer dresses below.

Shop the Best Summer Dresses at COS Right Now

1. COS Dropped-Hem Maxi Dress

(Image credit: @florriealexander)

Style Notes: Whether heading to the beach or the office, this refined dress is one that will always rise to the challenge. COS brings a touch of elegance to a relaxed silhouette with a high neckline and dropped hem. Simply style with leather sandals and a basket bag for day, or take to evening with sequin mules and a colourful clutch.

COS

Dropped-Hem Cotton Midi Dress

2. COS Embroidered Midi Dress

(Image credit: @florriealexander)

Style Notes: There's a reason why shirt dresses come back every year—they're consistently classic. For summer 2026, COS updates the enduring style with intricate embroidered details on the sleeves and skirt, bringing a summery edge to the perennial style. The longer length sleeves and sharp collar add to the polished feel of this dress.

COS

Embroidered Pima Cotton Midi Dress

3. COS Jersey-Panelled Mini Dres

(Image credit: @florriealexander)

Style Notes: I've already spotted stylish Londoners wearing this sweet mini dress, styled with everything from colourful trainers to simple ballet flats. The dress is formed with a technical nylon front panel which is offset with a cotton-jersey back. The a-line shape is easy and relaxed for the warmer months, and I'm already planning all the ways I'll be restyling it throughout the season.

COS

Jersey-Panelled Nylon Mini Dress

4. COS Twist-Detail Midi Dress

(Image credit: @florriealexander)

Style Notes: If you're looking for a style that can easily transfer from day to night, this is the dress for you. The sleek twist detail brings a contemporary update to the reliable fitted dress, and can be paired with simple flip-flops or elevated with mules for elegant evenings out.

COS

Twist-Detail Jersey Midi Dress

5. COS Sculpted Pleated Linen Midi Dress

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: The sculptural silhouette, artfully pleated panels and softly dropped hem make this one of COS's most elevated summer dresses—an effortless throw-on style that looks every bit as expensive as designer alternatives.

COS

Sculpted Pleated Linen Midi Dress

Shop More COS Dresses We Adore

COS

Ruched Dropped-Waist Poplin Midi Dress

The ruched bodice and dropped waist give this timeless poplin dress a modern, fashion-forward feel.

COS

Tie-Detail Pleated Georgette Maxi Dress

Delicate pleats and a subtle polka-dot print make this elegant maxi perfect for summer occasions.

COS

Layered Pintucked Mini Dress

Versatile and chic, this is a summer wardrobe workhorse.

COS

Sculpted Pleated Mini Dress

The sculptural silhouette and soft pleats make this one of COS's standout dresses of the season.

COS

Sculpted Dropped-Waist Midi Dress

Such a pretty yellow hue.

COS

Fluted-Sleeve Cotton Mini Dress

The fluted sleeves add a sophisticated touch to this simple cotton mini, making it ideal for day-to-night dressing.

COS

Twist-Back Jersey Midi Dress

A sleek jersey dress with an unexpected twist-back detail.

COS

Sculpted Flared Cotton Mini Dress

Clean lines and a softly flared skirt give this minimalist mini a distinctly premium feel.

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

So effortlessly romantic.

COS

Pleated Cotton-Linen Maxi Dress

Crafted from a breathable cotton-linen blend, this beautifully pleated maxi is the definition of understated elegance.

COS

Folded-Shoulder Cotton-Jersey Midi Dress

A simple striped jersey dress elevated by sculptural shoulders—proof that everyday dressing can still feel incredibly chic.

The 41 Best Minimalist Fashion Items at Every Price Point

Kerane Marcellus — Tue, 12 May 2026 12:30:41 +0000

I can only consider myself a minimalist half of the time. I love pieces that stand out from the crowd, but investing in good basics and essentials is necessary for a well-rounded wardrobe. These simple pieces—like tank tops, plain tees, and flats—are the foundation for a strong sense of style. If you are a minimalist, you know that to be true. While investing in long-lasting pieces is important, we can't all shop at The Row for forever fashion items, but we can still buy responsibly.

For readers who have been saving for a spring and summer closet refresh, I've found items that fall in every price range, whether you're shopping for under-$100 items via Zara, Nordstrom, and COS; looking in the $300–$500 range at Shopbop and Net-a-Porter; or considering over-$1000 items from, yes, The Row. Whatever your budget, these fashion items are all high-quality and expensive looking.

Keep scrolling to discover 41 of the best minimalist items to shop at every price point.

Under $100

I know we all dream of a closet filled with designer clothes (at least I do), but until our bank accounts are aligned with our tastes, shopping for expensive-looking, high-quality items in the under-$100 range is ideal, especially when I need a seasonal refresh. Shop the items that have a high-end feel for a fraction of the price.

ZARA

Suede Strap Sandals

MANGO

Camiseta Cowl Neck T-Shirt

Zara

Z1975 High Waist Straight Long Length Jeans

Wisdom

Frame 43 Sunglasses

COS

Knee-Length Denim Shorts

LESET

Margo Cotton-Jersey T-Shirt

JENNY BIRD

Mini Sundra Earrings

Zara

Sleeveless T-Shirt

SNDYS

Lex Barrel Pants

Gap

365 Low Rise Pleated Wide-Leg Trousers

$100 to $300

Now, everyone loves a good shopping spree, but lately, I've noticed that shoppers are changing their attitudes toward slow fashion and trying to consume less. Only buying pieces that really make sense for a wardrobe is the best way to approach minimalism. It's intentional rather than instantly gratifying. This is why the $100–$300 range is a good place to start shopping more intentionally and practicing minimalism.

Agolde

Vintage Loose Jeans

MANGO

Suede Shoulder Bag

Mejuri

18k Gold Vermeil Earrings

COS

Mini Studio Bowling Bag

AllSaints

Charley Strapless Top

COACH

Margot Slingback Pointed Toe Pumps

Zw Collection

Wide Leg Pleated Pants

J.Crew

Ruched Midi Dress in Stretch Cotton-Blend Poplin

Reformation

Veya Silk Top

Jeffrey Campbell

Fathom Flats

Polo Ralph Lauren

Slim-Fit Cotton Oxford Shirt

DÔEN

Lula Capri Pants

Massimo Dutti

Midi Skirt With Pareo Tie Detail

$300 to $600

This is a price range many dabble in when an item truly feels worth the investment. Think about all those times you've added something to your cart and thought it over for weeks before buying. That's what I associate with this price range. You want pieces that are dependable, long-lasting, and high-quality, and you're willing to spend a pretty penny—within reason. I respect that, which is why I compiled items in an affordable luxury price range. Everyone deserves to feel a little luxurious from time to time.

Miu Miu

Oval Sunglasses

Reformation

Inez High Pumps

COS

Gallery Tote Bag

Tibi

Summer Nylon Sleeveless Cocoon Top

Chloé

Judy Glasses

TWP

Big Joe Button Down Shirt

Tory Burch

Cap Toe Pumps

TOTEME

Cotton and Silk-Blend Wide-Leg Pants

Over $600

Unfortunately, I have expensive taste. Buying just one of these items would be very irresponsible of me, but they are all worth splurging on. Accessorize with The Row, and get dressed in Toteme. These items will live in your closet for a long time and are worth every penny. These pieces aren't just minimalist; they're chic and elegant too. They're everyday pieces that you can pass down. I've yet to make an over-$1000 clothing purchase, but if I did, it'd be for one of the items below.

Prada

Ribbed Knit Jersey Tank Top

The Row

Buckled Suede Slides

THE ROW

Marlo 17 Leather Tote Bag

Toteme

Draped Balloon Trousers

Ralph Lauren Collection

Courtney Striped Bib-Front Broadcloth Tuxedo Shirt

ALAÏA

Motion Hoop Earrings

Bottega Veneta

Midi Skirt

The Row

Kalyan Shorts

Christen

Stretch Leather Wedge Slide Sandals

Jil Sander

Cotton Poplin Pleated Top

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognizable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality, and real-world wearability.

We regularly try pieces ourselves, including everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes; speak to external experts and fashion insiders; and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels, so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

I’m Building a Chic Summer Wardrobe on a Budget—7 Zara, H&M and COS Buys That Made the Cut

Brittany Davy — Sun, 10 May 2026 05:20:00 +0000

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I’ve never been one to follow trends. I think it's all well and good to have the latest craze, but to me, looking expensive and polished will always be difficult without having those key capsule wardrobe staples in place. And I find that mastering the art of elegant dressing during the warmer months is even more challenging.

So, with the upcoming summer season approaching, I've already started to think about which trusty staples will form the foundation of my everyday wardrobe. And after months of observing what’s trending on the 2026 runways, scrolling on TikTok and Instagram, and spotting street style on my commute to and from the Who What Wear office, I’ve managed to narrow it down to seven versatile staples that I'll be wearing on repeat this season. And it should come as no surprise that I immediately turned to my favourite high street stores, Zara, COS and H&M, to shop them.

(Image credit: Zara, H&M, COS)

Perfectly balancing on-trend appeal with an equally timeless aesthetic, I consistently turn to these three high-street heroes for designer-passing pieces that will stand the test of time. And very quickly, my basket was filled with a myriad of summer staples that are chic, easy to style and, most importantly, look way pricier than they are. And luckily for you, I’ve rounded up items that perfectly fit this description below.

Keep scrolling to shop the seven designer-looking Zara, COS, and H&M staples that I’m adding to my summer 2026 capsule wardrobe.

7 Zara, H&M and COS Buys I'm Adding to My Summer Wardrobe

1. Midi Dress

Style Notes: Dress season is finally here, and a midi iteration acts as a throw-on style that you can take from day to night with ease. Simply swap out your flat sandals and raffia bag for a pair of kitten heels and a statement clutch.

Shop the Staple:

h&m

Embroidered linen-blend dress

I cannot believe this is a high-street find.

ZARA

Zw Collection Poplin Pleated Dress

Simple, chic and easy to style.

COS

Ruched-Waist Cotton-Jersey Midi Dress

The ruched-waist is so flattering.

H&M

Smocked-Bodice Tie-Strap Dress

Wear with sandals, ballet flats and heels alike.

ZARA

Midi Linen Blend Dress With Open Back

Perfect for in or out of the office.

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

No notes from me.

2. Minimal Sandals

Style Notes: With sandal season in full swing, fashion people turn to pared-back iterations that look chic and put together but also come with a sense of ease that makes them perfect for everyday styling. No matter the colour or fabric, a pair of minimal sandals will add instant polish to all of your summer outfits.

Shop the Staple:

COS

Leather Fisherman Sandals

These are finally back in stock.

H&M

Leather Sandals

No one will guess these are from the high street.

ZARA

Contrast Leather Sandals

Red and black sandals are everywhere at the moment.

COS

Leather Flip Flops

Easy elegance.

H&M

Leather Sandals

Chocolate suede will always get a yes from me.

ZARA

Flat Leather Criss-Cross Sandals

These look like so many designer options on the market at the moment.

3. Blouse

Style Notes: If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear, you’ll know how much we love a blouse in the spring and summer. Dressier than your average tank or tee, but still feeling wearable enough for casual occasions as well, this pretty top style will add a touch of elegance to jeans, linen trousers or even capri pants this season.

Shop the Staple:

ZARA

Ruffled Blouse With Gathered Detail

Pirate-core at its finest.

H&M

Lace-Trimmed Cotton Blouse

This immediately went in my basket.

COS

Ruched Cotton Blouse

I love the vintage feel this has.

ZARA

Printed Polka Dot Blouse

Yes, polka dots are still in for summer 2026.

H&M

Blouse With Scarf

This won't stick around for long.

COS

Sculptural Pima Cotton-Poplin Blouse

This green hue is nice difference from black or white.

4. Linen Trousers

Style Notes: When it gets too hot for my wool trousers, I always turn to breezy linen to see me through from now until early autumn. I’m well aware that classic drawstring styles might feel a little too casual, so I tend to opt for more tailored linen trouser styles that can work just as well for the office as they can for a day out with friends.

Shop the Staple:

h&m

Linen-blend barrel trousers

Barrel trousers will take an outfit from basic to elevated.

COS

Relaxed Linen-Blend Wide-Leg Trousers

COS' cult wide-leg trousers now come in this lightweight linen fabrication.

ZARA

100% Linen Straight Trousers

The sweetest shade of pink.

H&M

Tailored Linen Trousers

If you already own a lot of black pairs, why not opt for this brown?

COS

Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

I'm still always partial to a classic drawstring silhouette.

ZARA

Pleated Linen Blend Trousers Zw Collection

I'd style this with a linen blazer and ballet flats for the office.

5. Woven Tote

Style Notes: I cannot wait to get my woven bags out this season. Whether I opt for a beach-ready raffia style or a sleek woven leather iteration, it's a structure thats timeless and versatile, but also comes with just the right amount of edge to add interest to my otherwise very simple look.

Shop the Staple:

COS

Hand-Woven Market Tote - Straw

I'll be taking this with me on all of my holidays this season.

ZARA

Raffia Handbag

Roomy enough for the barest of essentials.

h&m

Straw shopper

The perfect summer office bag, in my opinion.

COS

Cavatelli Clutch Bag

COS' Cavatelli clutch comes editor-approved.

ZARA

Raffia Tote Bag

You'll be able to fit so much in this roomy tote.

H&M

Straw Clutch

Everyone will think this is a designer find.

6. Linen Shirt

Style Notes: A button-down shirt will serve you well regardless of the season, but as the temperature starts to rise, I’ll be swapping out my classic cotton iterations for breezy linen that can be worn with matching line trousers, jeans and midi skirts alike.

Shop the Staple:

h&m

Linen shirt

Clean, crisp perfection.

COS

Longline Linen Shirt

Black will go with everything.

ZARA

Linen Blend Shirt With Wide Sleeves

Such a chic shape.

h&m

Linen Shirt

This striped iteration is perfect for the office.

COS

Oversized Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt

I want the matching shorts as well.

ZARA

Short Linen Blend Shirt

Such a pretty colour.

7. Straight Jeans

Style Notes: With slim-fit denim replacing the baggy and barrel silhouettes that dominated last year, straight-leg jeans are back at the forefront for polished dressers. They lend themselves very well to a smarter style of warm-weather dressing, but they’re also incredibly adaptable, pairing just as well with a simple tank top as they do an elegant blouse.

Shop the Staple:

COS

Chord Straight-Leg Jeans

These are a bestseller for very good reason.

H&M

Straight High Waist Ankle Jeans

I want the entire outfit.

ZARA

Zw Collection Mid-Waist Straight Leg Jeans

White jeans are synonymous with summer.

COS

Facade Straight-Leg Jeans

This chocolate wash is calling to me.

h&m

Straight-leg jeans

Wear with blouses, t-shirts and tank tops alike.

ZARA

Trf Fold Up Straight Mid-Waist Jeans

Fold-up jeans are an easy way to elevate an outfit.

I Just Found the Chicest Affordable Alts to These Investment Pieces

audry.hiaoui@futurenet.com (Audry Hiaoui) — Wed, 06 May 2026 10:00:00 +0000

Working in fashion, it's second nature for editors to find (and share) affordable alternatives to investment pieces whenever we come across them. Often, retailers including Banana Republic, COS, Gap, and J.Crew are editor favorites for these types of timeless items. For example, associate fashion editor Nikki Chwatt covered how a pair of $98 J.Crew pants closely resemble Leset's Kyoto pants. She's talked about how Nordstrom's $50 kitten-heel sandals mimic Hailey Bieber's Toteme ones as well.

I've also written about how Tony Bianco Gatsby loafers remind me of The Row's Soft Loafers. There are also other widely loved options, such as Madewell Greta flat for The Row Ballet Flat, and Gap's 100% Cotton Oversized Sweater as a budget-friendly option for the Ophelia Sweater.

Most recently, when I was eyeing a pair of sold-out Manolo Blahnik Callamu 50 mules, I naturally started looking for something similar. I ended up getting the now also sold-out Stuart Weitzman Minimalist 50 sandal, but have since also come across Aeyde's Black Vero Leather Mules, too.

Below, shop these and more lower-cost options inspired by popular capsule wardrobe staples.

M-ioi-M

Extra Large Canvas Tote Bag

This comes in a few different colors.

Open Edit

Tori Kitten Heel Sandal

Inspired by Toteme.

Tony Bianco

Gatsby in Black Venice

The $190 loafers that remind me of The Row.

J.Crew

Luna Pant

Under-$100 cotton poplin pants.

Madewell

The Greta Ballet Flat

The Madewell flats that have stayed popular season after season.

Gap

100% Cotton Oversized Sweater

A 100% cotton sweater from Gap.

Aeyde

Vero Nappa Leather Sandals

The Aeyde shoes look reminiscent of Manolo Blahnik's Callamu 50 mules and Stuart Weitzman's Minimalist 50 sandals.

Reformation

Inez Pump

If you love Phoebe Philo's $990 Club Slippers…

Gap

Easy Wide-Leg Pants

I've seen so many TikToks raving about Gap's Easy pants.

MANGO

Wool-Blend Midi-Skirt

A chic tailored skirt from Mango.

The Horse

Tilly Bag

The Australian brand The Horse.

Banana Republic

Ribbed Boatneck Top

Boatneck tops are trending.

Enza Costa

Everywhere Pant

Pants to wear on repeat, especially for working from home.

Rue Sophie

Provenance Oversized Jacket

Designer coats can be extremely expensive, so I was excited to find this under-$300 option from Rue Sophie.

Ancient Greek Sandals

Solon Leather Thong Sandals

Cool leather thong sandals.

COS

Bateau Tote Bag

This expensive-looking bag.

CDLP

Ribbed Tencel Lyocell-Blend Jersey Tank

A great basic.

Quince

Italian Leather Double Strap Shoulder Bag

I was surprised to see this one for $100.

Camper

Casi Myra Ballerina Flat

My favorite ballet flats from Camper.

are-studio

Frances

This bag comes in four different neutral colors: Tobacco, Black, Butter, and Fawn.

Everlane

Suede Clog

Chic simple clogs.

These Chic COS, Free People, and Ref Items Are Perfect for Spring and Summer Wardrobe Updates

chinazor.offor@futurenet.com (Chinazor "Chichi" Offor) — Mon, 04 May 2026 16:52:37 +0000

There's something so special about this time of the year. Whether you love the longer days or tropical getaways, there's no doubting the power of warmer weather. With spring in full swing and summer just around the corner, I've been scouring the internet for the best new arrivals worth shopping. As a shopping editor, I love staying in the know about the best spring and summer clothing releases so I can bring you all the best hits. This week, I've dug up some seriously great finds from COS, Free People, and Reformation.

If you're dying to shop fresh pieces for the sunny days ahead, I've got you covered. I selected a handful of the best finds from each retailer to make updating your closet as seamless as possible. From beautiful sets that take the guesswork out of getting dressed to breezy, breathable separates to combat the rising temperatures, there's truly something for any kind of fashion lover. Keep scrolling to uncover your new favorite finds from COS, Free People, and Reformation ahead.

Shop COS New Arrivals

COS's sleek and elevated aesthetic always gives off designer vibes without the exorbitant price tag. The latest releases echo that energy that the most stylish people all over have come to love. I'm particularly intrigued by the crinkled-satin pieces that have made an appearance in the new arrivals this time around.

COS

Crinkled-Satin Midi Dress

COS

Crinkled Wrap-Over Blouse

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

COS

Sculpted Pleated Mini Dress

COS

Longline Tailored Shorts

COS

Wide-Brim Raffia Hat

COS

Folded-Shoulder Cotton-Jersey Midi Dress

COS

Open-Stitch Satin Cami Top

COS

Waisted Cotton Midi Dress

COS

Hand-Woven Market Tote in Straw

COS

Scuba Square-Toe Mules

Shop Free People New Arrivals

If you're looking to inject a little fun into your warm-weather wardrobe, I have some great news for you. Free People's latest drop is full of styles that have boho, eclectic details that are guaranteed to turn heads. I'm eyeing the beaded crochet tank for my European summer getaway.

Free People

Beads and Breeze Crochet Tank

Free People

Riviera Beaded Sandals

We the Free

Geo Soutache Shirt

We the Free

Benny Boat Shoes

Free People

Iris Round Sunglasses

We the Free

Fable Low-Rise Twisted Bowed Jeans

Free People

Sandshell Linen Skirt Set

Free People

Moonflower Pull-On Balloon Pants

Free People

Corfu Striped Cotton-Linen Set

Free People

Tilly Mini Dress

Shop Reformation New Arrivals

If chic and colorful is your speed, you'd definitely be pleased by Reformation's arrivals. I'm loving the refined silhouettes. I'm partial to the pretty shoes, but the red silk Suzette Top is incredibly tempting.

Reformation

Sommer Top

Reformation

Lennon Knit Two Piece

Reformation

Saige High Rise 4-Inch Jean Shorts

Reformation

Stef Heeled Sandal

Reformation

Suzette Silk Twill Top

Reformation

Libby Wedge Thong

Reformation

Sandy Short

Reformation

Roya Cashmere V-Neck

Reformation

Blaine Flat

Reformation

Bernice Denim Two Piece

I Gasped—H&M, COS and Mango Just Dropped the Most Expensive-Looking Spring Buys

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 05:50:00 +0000

There's no denying that the great British high street has come a long way in recent years. With every new season, our favourite affordable brands seem to outdo themselves, from honing in on the latest trends to creating pieces that could easily pass for triple their price. With the rest of the spring season and summer days stretching before us, my wardrobe is ready for a fresh infusion of expensive-looking warm-weather buys, and right now my favourite pieces all come from the spring collections of H&M, COS and Mango.

Mango Cotton Top with Embroidered Details (£45) (Image credit: Mango)

Whether renewing your workwear collection or planning out reliable, sleek outfits for your weekend plans, the high street always comes through with elegant options. The only downside is that searching for these pieces can take considerable time and an eye for the purchases that will earn their keep in your wardrobe year after year. Thankfully, I spend all day exploring the new-in buys to save you time and bring the most worthwhile high street purchases together in one curated edit.

The arrival of bright days has thrown my wardrobe straight into a new gear. Linen trousers are back as a wardrobe essential, and COS has just restocked its best-selling pair, now with a bold barrel-leg cut. Dresses are back in our everyday rotations, and whether you're looking for a languid throw-on style or a more fitted everyday piece, I've found a selection of elegant styles that feel incredibly current but will also outlast the moving trends. Finer details note the seasonal shift as linen fabrics, raffia materials, and suede textures return as calling cards of the warmer months, and you'll find these spring signals applied to a series of sleek pieces from shirting to accessories. As the best high street pieces tend to move quickly, let's get straight to it. Keep scrolling to shop the most expensive-looking warm-weather buys from H&M, COS and Mango right now.

Shop the Most Expensive-Looking H&M, COS and Mango Buys

H&M

Scarf-Collar Linen-Blend Jacket

Keep a light jacket close to hand on cooler spring mornings.

H&M

Pintucked Cotton Blouse

Pretty blouses feature in so many of my spring outfits, and this is one of the sweetest I've seen.

COS

Facade Straight-Leg Jeans

COS's Facade jeans are beloved by editors and fashion people alike.

COS

A-Line Linen-Blend Maxi Dress

A throw on dress in a rich shade just calls for simple sandals and a basket bag for an instantly chic look.

H&M

Braided-Look Ballet Flats

Pair with skirts, dresses, tailoring, denim and so much more.

MANGO

Cotton Top With Embroidered Details

The intricate embroidered details make this top look much more expensive than it is.

COS

Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

Comfortable, versatile and ready to pair with all other shades in your wardrobe.

MANGO

Braided Shoulder Bag

The most expensive-looking high street bag I've seen in a while!

COS

Knitted Linen Cardigan

Rely on light layers on cooler spring days and summer evenings.

MANGO

A-Line Linen Dress

This dress is destined to sell out fast.

MANGO

Mixed Pendant Earrings

Take any outfit to new heights with bold accessories.

COS

Button-Down Collar Linen Shirt

Call upon this light linen shirt every single year.

MANGO

Straight Cotton Trousers With Pleats

The tailoring of this pair is exquisite.

MANGO

Leather Sandals With Intertwined Strap

A staple in your shoe collection all spring and summer long.

MANGO

Gathered Midi-Dress

This elegant dress can be dressed up or down with ease.

COS

Hand-Woven Market Tote - Straw

COS's latest It bag has been crowned.

MANGO

Polka Dot Ruched Top

Lean into the return of polka dots with this sleek top.

H&M

Pleated Cotton Skirt

This has already made its way on to my wish list.

H&M

Oval Sunglasses

Sunglasses are back as an everyday essential.

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

Timeless, classic and incredibly versatile.

My Friend Asked for a Chic Wardrobe Update Under £100—15 Zara, H&M and COS Buys I Recommended

Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 06:45:00 +0000

After what felt like a never ending winter followed by a chaotic British spring, the weather is finally starting to improve. As one balmy sun-soaked day melts into the next, getting dressed is starting to feel exciting again. Having relied on cosy cashmere cardigans and weighty coats for the last 6 months, this week I realised they had been quietly retired to the back of my wardrobe. In their place were tried-and-true spring staples: think billowy broderie anglaise blouses, lightweight spring jackets and airy linen two-pieces that make sense when there's a warmth in the air. That being said, this shift happened earlier than expected. After a few weeks of teasing heatwaves, I’ve realised my initial spring swaps might not cut it, and if these early warning signs are anything to go by, I’m decidedly unprepared for the seriously hot summer we’re about to have.

(Image credit: H&M)

Naturally, I’ve taken this as my cue to do what I do best: shop. Using the warm-weather as both inspiration and justification (as well as my job as junior fashion editor, but I digress), slowly started combing through the high street in search of pieces that feel fresh, elevated (and crucially) budget-friendly. With my summer holidays on the horizon, I’m holding off on any massive splurges ( for this week at least), so the goal is expensive-looking buys falling under £100 and all the best happen to be from Zara, H&M and COS.

As the trifecta of the high street greatness (when it comes to luxury-looking finds), with these three brands, you’ve got all your bases covered. From trend-led fashion at Zara to sophisticated minimalistic cuts at COS (and a mix of the two at H&M), there are plenty of uber-luxe shapes ready to set your wardrobe in a summer mood. Sending my best friends my finds, these are the 15 pieces she ordered without hesitation. Scroll to discover below.

1. My Top Picks from Zara

ZARA

Palazzo Trousers With Tie

Loose, light weight and breezy the tie detail is a nice touch.

ZARA

Romantic Balloon Sleeve Blouse

I could see this with strappy sandals and a pretty ruffled skirt.

ZARA

Linen Blend Midi Dress With Belt

Style with loafers, sandals or derbys, either way you have an elevated look.

ZARA

Embroidered Midi Dress

The delicate lece helms elevate this otherwise classic style.

ZARA

Flat Split Suede Sandals With AppliquÉ

Simple yet sophisticated, the gold toe ring elevates this pair of sandals tenfold.

2. My Top Picks from H&M

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Cotton Blouse

Pesant blouses have become a huge this spring summer.

H&M

Denim Midi Dress

A Who What Wear UK editors favourite.

H&M

Scarf-Collar Linen-Blend Jacket

The addition of a sewn-in scarf and soft draped edges changes this from your basic bomber to one worthy of a spot in your summer rotation.

H&M

Frill-Trimmed Off-The-Shoulder Dress

This would be perfect for strutting on the beach with a raffia tote and sandal in toe.

Kitten-Heeled Slingbacks

Victoria Beckham was recently spotted out in a pair of kitten heels almost identical to these.

3. My Top Picks from COS

COS

Oversized Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt

This is exactly how I wan't to be dressing this spring.

Shop the matching Tailored Elasticated Linen Shorts below (£55).

cos

DRAPED SCARF-DETAIL TOP

This scarf blouse would look chic with a pair of capri leggings and ballet flats.

COS

Ruched Cotton Blouse

I recently tried this blouse on and can attest, its as good as it looks.

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

The swooping drop-waist elevates this sleeveless dress from simple to emaculate.

COS

Minimal Leather Ballet Flats

The opulent rouge hue will elevate everything from jeans to shirred waist dresses with ease this summer.

My 59-Year-Old Mum and I Went to Zara, COS and M&S—15 Designer-Looking Pieces We Both Loved

Brittany Davy — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 10:52:38 +0000

My mum and I share many things—amongst them a fondness for a luxury perfume, a fancy glass of wine, and, of course, a good romcom. But our shared love of fashion is definitely one of the things that connects us the most. And I’m not afraid she influences my style more than anyone else. She’s honestly one of the chicest women I know, so naturally, I always look to her for advice on what to buy. And this becomes even more true when shopping on the high street, when the task of finding quality pieces that actually look expensive is even more difficult.

So, with the upcoming summer season at the forefront of my mind, I, of course, asked her to go shopping with me to invest in some new designer-looking pieces. And on our search, it was Zara, COS and M&S that really stood out amongst the high-street crowd. Perfectly balancing on-trend appeal with an equally timeless aesthetic, my mum and I consistently come back to these three high-street heroes for expensive-looking pieces that will stand the test of time in our wardrobes. And luckily for you, I’ve rounded them up below.

From pretty blouses that are sure to dress up jeans and linen trousers to elegant throw-on dresses that can be taken from day to night with ease, keep scrolling to see the 15 pieces from Zara, COS and M&S that my 59-year-old mum and I both love.

15 Zara, COS and M&S Pieces My 59-Year-Old Mum and I Love

ZARA

Ruffled Blouse With Gathered Detail

A fail proof way to dress up your jeans, skirts and linen trousers this summer.

COS

Tailored Linen-Blend Straight-Leg Trousers

An elegant alternative to the classic linen drawstring trousers.

M&S

Kitten Heel Pointed Court Shoes

So sleek.

ZARA

Linen Blend Midi Dress With Belt

A pretty throw-on dress that works for both in or out of the office.

COS

Structured Collarless Satin Blazer

One of the chicest blazer silhouettes I've seen in a very long time.

M&S

Pure Cotton Printed Puff Sleeve Blouse

Simple? Yes, But so very effective.

ZARA

Zw Collection Mid-Rise Relaxed Ankle Jeans

White denim really comes into its own in summer.

COS

Button-Down Collar Linen Shirt

Wear with jeans, skirts and Bermuda shorts alike.

Autograph

Suede Funnel Neck Blouson Jacket

Funnel-neck silhouettes are having a moment.

ZARA

Flat Leather Criss-Cross Sandals

No one will guess these are from the high-street.

COS

Twist-Detail Jersey Midi Dress

I spotted this on one of my fellow editors, and I've been obsessed ever since.

M&S

Pure Cotton Pleated Midi A-Line Skirt

So easy to dress up or down.

ZARA

Zw Collection Double-Breasted Blazer

No notes.

COS

Montmartre Bowling Bag - Leather

No one does a bowling bag quite like COS.

M&S

Mid Rise Barrel Jeans

Such a cool shape.

Shop More Zara, COS and M&S Pieces My 59-Year-Old Mum and I Love

ZARA

Zw Collection Halter Dots Dress

COS

Hand-Woven Market Tote - Straw

M&S

Single Pleat Wide Leg Trousers With Linen

ZARA

Wedge Heeled Sandals

COS

Smocked Puff-Sleeve Blouse

M&S

Pure Cotton Poplin Tie Side Midi Skirt

ZARA

Zw Collection Oversize Check Trench Coat

COS

Knitted Linen Cardigan

ZARA

Zw Collection Linen Blend Blouse

M&S

Jersey Sleeveless Draped Midaxi Dress

COS

Leather Fisherman Sandals

COS

Sculpted Cotton Midi Dress

M&S

Linen Blend Belted Cropped Jacket

I Asked My Chic French Friend for Her Spring/Summer Shopping List—21 Elegant Pieces She Sent Back

Marina Avraam — Thu, 23 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

If there’s one person I’ll always take shopping advice from, it’s my French (read: impossibly chic) best friend. And yes, as a shopping editor of six years, I’m well aware of how that sounds—but trust me on this one.

She has that innate sense of style that can’t be taught. The kind that spots the best pieces before they’re everywhere, and somehow always lands on exactly the right thing. Her wardrobe is equal parts considered and effortless, built around pieces that feel timeless, but never boring.

Salome wearing the Manu Atelier Le Cambon. (Image credit: @salome.mory)

From embroidered blouses and straight-leg jeans, leather ballet flats to chic jackets, easy summer dresses and handbags that could easily pass for designer, she has a knack for pulling together a spring/summer capsule that feels elevated, but still realistic. Naturally, I asked for her current shopping list. Keep scrolling to shop the best French-inspired shopping pieces below.

Shop My French Friend's Shopping List

ZARA

Zw Collection Satin Shirt With Ties

The kind of blouse that does all the hard work for you.

AGOLDE

90s Mid-Rise Straight-Leg Jeans

A true wardrobe anchor.

COS

Clean Cut T-Shirt

This will be the perfect foundation for all your spring outfits.

Anthropologie

Calla Woven Shoulder Bag

This is already selling out.

Rise & Fall

Women's Suede Jacket - Sand - Sand / Xs

The sand hue is just perfect for spring.

COS

Chord Straight-Leg Jeans

A sharper, more tailored take on denim. Perfect if you want something a little more elevated.

Reformation

Gale Satin Mid Rise Bias Pant

Satin trouser season is here, and Reformation's Gale pair are by far the chicest.

A.Emery

Jalen Suede Sandals in Grey - a Emery

There's something so innately expensive-looking about suede sandals.

Rohe

Double-Faced Wool Pankou Jacket | Navy

All the chicest girls own this.

MATTEAU

Gathered Organic Cotton-Poplin Midi Dress

Such a pretty summer dress.

ALOHAS

Rosalind Brown Leather Ballet Flats

Soft, glove-like leather that moulds to your foot.

NOUR HAMMOUR

Dalma Suede Bomber Jacket

Butter yellow is officially back.

Manu Atelier

Le Cambon 35 Black

Every chic French woman owns this.

ME+EM

Pleat Front Man Pant

The perfect trousers you can wear from desk to dinner.

COS

Pintucked Cotton Midi Dress

The subtle pleats make this look so expensive.

Reformation

Jessie Thong Sandal

These sell out every year.

Doen

Henri Ruffled Pintucked Broderie Anglaise Cotton Top

The sweetest spring top.

The Row

Marlo 14 Bag

The chic successor to the Margaux, say hello to the Marlo.

Reformation

Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan

A fine, lightweight and ideal for layering this transitional season.

AEYDE

Ellie Leather Ballet Flats

Not all ballet flats are made equal, and this Aeyde pair are far superior to any others I've tried.

Reformation

Balia Linen Dress

Just add sandals and a chic raffia bag.

COS

Tailored Linen-Blend Straight-Leg Trousers

You'll get so much wear out of these in the warmer months.

SAVETTE

Symmetry Trapeze Leather Shoulder Bag

Love.

Sezane

Dauphie Top - Plain Ecru Embroidery - Organic Cotton - Sézane

Cute!

COS

Minimal Leather Trainers

Such an easy pair of trainers to style.

AGOLDE

Arc Long High-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans

Such a great pair of jeans you'll turn to constantly.

ALIGNE

Azalea Peplum Ponte Top

Elevate every pair of jeans with this chic blouse.

ISABEL MARANT

Broderie Anglaise Cotton and Silk-Blend Blouse

So Parisian, slightly undone and endlessly wearable.

Bottega Veneta

Women's Small Andiamo in Fondant/muse Brass

A chic French woman staple.

Doen

Ischia Shirred Polka-Dot Organic Cotton-Voile Midi Dress

I will never not rave about the Doen Ischia dress.

Liffner

Flat Leather Basket Black

A sweet, more polished take on the usual summer tote.

RIXO ⋆

Ellery Cotton Blouse in Black

A great alt to the classic white blouse.

ZARA

High-Heel Sandals With Metal Detail

Sleek with just enough detail. These elevate even the simplest outfit.

COS

Twist-Detail Jersey Midi Dress

The twist detail gives it shape without effort.

ZARA

Embroidered Striped Blouse

Feels vintage-inspired in the best way.

Reformation

Janu Denim Midi Dress

More structured than your usual summer dress. Great with flats or heels.

COS

Montmartre Bowling Bag - Leather

Such a great shape.

Zara, H&M and COS Called It—These Are The Blouse Trends That Make Every Outfit Instantly Chicer

Marina Avraam — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

If there’s one piece that really comes into its own once spring arrives, it’s the blouse. There’s something about a well-cut, considered style that instantly elevates an outfit—whether you’re pairing it with jeans, linen trousers or a simple skirt, a blouse adds an easy sense of polish. And right now, three brands are getting it particularly right: Zara, COS and H&M.

Each brings something slightly different to the table. Zara leans into the more trend-led side of things, offering everything from romantic lace and ruffled finishes to puff sleeves and delicate embroidery. H&M takes a similarly directional approach, but with a softer, more playful edge—think fresh colour palettes, from baby blue to powder pink, that give classic silhouettes a lighter feel. Then there’s COS. With its clean lines, subtle volume and focus on fabrication, it’s the go-to for minimalists looking for something quietly elevated.

(Image credit: @chloekathbutler)

From ruffles and lace to polka dots and scarf details, these are the blouse trends defining the season—shop the best from Zara, H&M and COS below.

Shop The Best Zara, H&M and COS Blouse Trends

1. Ruffled Blouses

ZARA

Ruffled Blouse With Gathered Detail

Pair with jeans and ballet flats for the perfect spring look.

ZARA

Ruffled Blouse

The baby blue is so cute.

H&M

Flounced Peplum Blouse

Very pirate chic.

COS

Ruffle-Collar Modal Blouse

Just add tailored trousers and loafers for a sleek, spring-ready office look.

ZARA

Ruffled Check Blouse With Bow

Very cottage-core.

H&M

Pintucked Blouse

The lavender hue is everything.

2. Embroidered Blouses

ZARA

Romantic Balloon Sleeve Blouse

A flouncy, easy-to-style blouse that will go with just about everything in your wardrobe.

ZARA

Romantic Blouse With Cutwork Embroidery

So pretty.

ZARA

Embroidered Blouse

The perfect alt to the classic white blouse.

ZARA

Embroidered Short Sleeve Blouse

This is already in my basket.

H&M

Embroidered Blouse

Pair with your favourite linen trousers and flip-flops for the perfect holiday look.

H&M

Embroidered Blouse

The perfect amount of poofy.

3. Scarf Blouse

COS

Draped Scarf-Detail Top

If you told me this was designer, I'd believe you.

ZARA

Semi-Sheer Blouse With Flower

The perfect "pretty top" to dress up jeans and skirts.

COS

Scarf-Detail Silk Blouse

I'm so into this buttery yellow hue.

H&M

Scarf-Collar Blouse

Chic.

H&M

Oversized Blouse With Scarf

The perfect work top.

4. Polka-Dot Blouse

ZARA

Polka Dot Blouse With Bow

This is selling fast.

ZARA

Blouse With Cutwork Embroidery and Dots

A fun, playful take on the classic blouse.

ZARA

Polka Dot Blouse

I love the brown and white polka-dot combo.

ZARA

Ruffled Polka Dot Blouse

The ruffles combined with the polka-dots are everything.

H&M

Frill-Trimmed Blouse

So chic.

COS

Scarf-Detail Polka-Dot Shirt

This is almost completely sold out.

I Just Know the Fashion Crowd Will Want to Mix and Match These New Arrivals From J.Crew, Reformation, and COS

Bobby Schuessler — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Fashion people all agree: a complete wardrobe is built on elevated basics—you know, versatile essentials that make mixing and matching effortless. The style setters I know also agree that J.Crew, Reformation, and COS are three standout retailers that stock these forward yet wearable essentials.

I scrolled through the new arrivals to curate an edit of spring and summer staples that could be styled with a range of different types of pieces. Yes, I'm referring to the coveted J.Crew drawstring pants (cute with a tee or button-up shirt), on-trend tops (ahem, baseball tee), transitional jackets, and more.

J.Crew

Soleil Pants

You'll get so much wear out of these pants.

J.Crew

Perfect-Fit Crewneck T-Shirt

As the name states, a perfect tee.

J.Crew

Featherweight Ribbed Cashmere Short-Sleeve Sweater-Polo

Cute with everything from a skirt to jeans.

J.Crew

Capri Pant in Four-Season Stretch

Chic.

J.Crew

Zoe Barrel Jean

A nice pair of white jeans.

J.Crew

Cotton-Blend V-Neck Pullover Sweater

Great for transitional weather.

J.Crew

Pencil Midi Skirt in Cotton Poplin

Sleek skirt.

J.Crew

Audrey Jelly Thong Sandals in Leather

New go-to sandals, anyone?

J.Crew

Garçon Classic Shirt in Baird Mcnutt Irish Linen

This shirt style is so popular.

Reformation

Gale Satin Mid Rise Bias Pant

Dress these pants up or down.

Reformation

Rowan Oversized Tee

Cool tee.

Reformation

Clara Silk Bermuda Short

I mean...

Reformation

Veya Silk Top

A stunning top that can be worn on its own or layered.

Reformation

Inez Pumps

The fashion crowd can't get enough of these pumps.

Reformation

Cove Cotton Oversized Crew

Adore.

Reformation

Fraise Linen Dress

You can wear this dress for many different occasions.

Reformation

Jessie Thong Sandal

Another strong pair of sandals.

Reformation

Cynthia High Rise Straight Jeans

Nice wash.

COS

Contrast-Sleeve T-Shirt

Baseball tees are trending.

COS

A-Line Cotton-Twill Jacket

The neckline!

COS

Knitted Linen-Merino Polo Shirt

Modern polo.

COS

Pleated Belted Linen Shorts

There's a belt detail on the side.

COS

Pointelle-Knit T-Shirt

Simple yet striking.

COS

Patch-Pocket Straight-Leg Jeans

Picture these with your favorite tee.

COS

Cotton V-Neck T-Shirt

Okay, this tee with the pants above.

COS

Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Pants

Elevated.

COS

Shawl-Collar Wool Blazer

A stunning blazer.

Dress Season Is Officially Here—5 Spring Dress Trends Zara, H&M and COS Have Already Perfected

florriealexander505@gmail.com (Florrie Alexander) — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 05:55:00 +0000

At last, spring is underway, and the bright sunshine is making ever more frequent appearances. In turn, our wardrobes have shifted for the warmer weather, welcoming back light linen trousers and sweet blouses to see us through the higher temperatures. Already, I've prepared a series of sleek outfits to see me through the spring months, many of which are carefully curated, but on the days when I want instant polish with little thought, it's always a dress that I reach for. Now, I've scoured the high street for the most expensive-looking dresses for spring 2026, and I keep coming back to Zara, COS and H&M.

Florrie wears the Zara Midi Linen Blend Dress (£30) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

At this point in the season, the defining trends have been set, and this trio of high street brands has tapped into every single one of them. COS brings its expertise in tailoring and refined minimalism to dresses this season with understated palettes and restrained designs. At Zara, there's a two-pronged approach, leaning into playful prints as well as restocking our basics. Finally, H&M brings a delicate touch to boho detailing and plays with understated design details that have a big impact to lead its elegant dress collection this season.

Florrie wears the H&M Tie-Strap Cotton Dress (£23) (Image credit: @florriealexander)

As with every season for the past few years, minimalism is back for spring 2026. Now, our high street brands are leaning on refined palettes and classic silhouettes that ensure these pieces will hold their place in any wardrobe for years to come. For those looking for a touch of boho, look out for sweet broderie anglaise, light lace and delicate motifs that add a romantic edge. Alongside, there are classic shirtdresses for those looking for polished day-to-night pieces and playful prints for a joyful edge. Each of the trends lends itself to looking incredibly high-end whilst having a more affordable price tag, but fine details of lace, draping and timeless prints make the simplest pieces look designer. Scroll on to shop the best spring dress trends from Zara, H&M and COS.

Shop The Best Zara, COS and H&M Dress Trends

1. Understated Minimalism

ZARA

Midi Linen Blend Dress With Open Back

Sleek and understated.

ZARA

Zw Collection Tunic Dress With Belt

The kind of dress that you can elevate for the office or throw over swimwear come summer.

COS

Tiered Gathered Midi Dress

Simply add sandals and grab your favourite basket bag.

H&M

Flared-Skirt Halterneck Dress

I'm always drawn to the elegance of a halterneck dress.

2. Boho Broderie

H&M

Lace-Detail Cotton Dress

I tried this dress on in pink above, and love all the pretty details.

ZARA

Embroidered Poplin Mini Dress

So many of my fellow editors have added this dress to basket already.

COS

Broderie Anglaise Shirt Dress

The kind of dress you'll call upon year after year.

H&M

Broderie Anglaise Dress

The unfussy design makes this dress look so expensive.

ZARA

Embroidered Strappy Mini Dress

This is one of the first dresses I'll be packing for upcoming holidays.

3. Delicate Draping

COS

Twist-Detail Jersey Midi Dress

This dress is so good, COS brings it back every year.

H&M

Draped Mesh Dress

Take to evening by swapping out sandals for sleek mules.

COS

Asymmetric Draped Midi Dress

The sculptural design makes it hard to believe this dress comes from the high street.

ZARA

Dress With Side Sash

Such a striking silhouette.

H&M

Draped One-Shoulder Dress

If you have any reason to dress up this season, you'll want this dress in your arsenal.

4. Playful Prints

Zara

Striped Rustic Midi Dress

I just know that this dress will sell fast.

ZARA

Zw Collection Halter Dots Dress

A very sophisticated take on playful polka dots.

H&M

Cut-Out Halterneck Dress

The dress I want to wear on sunny days.

H&M

Scarf-Detail Satin Dress

This dress shows just how timeless polka dot prints are.

COS

Wrap Midi Shirt Dress

This dress will easily outlast the moving trends.

Style Notes: Polished with a touch of ease for the warmest days, you'll find the best styles from COS, Zara and H&M below.

COS

Short-Sleeved Linen Shirt Dress

If you're looking for a polished dress that works just as well strolling through cobbled streets abroad as hitting the pavement on the way to work, a shirt dress is your answer.

COS

Embroidered Pima Cotton Midi Dress

This is already in my basket.

ZARA

Flowing Shirt Dress With Belt

This shirt dress is already moving fast.

H&M

Broderie-Anglaise Cotton Shirt Dress

The broderie anglaise adds a sweet touch to this refined shirt dress.

H&M

Tie-Detail Shirt Dress

I'm planning to copy this whole look from head to toe.

I Tried On COS's Latest Expensive-Looking Drop—These Pieces Are Set to Sell Out by Summer

Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolaki — Sat, 18 Apr 2026 06:45:00 +0000

I'll admit I was quick to dig out my broidere anglaise blouses and light linen two-pieces at the very first sign of spring, but this week's rain and chilly breeze reminded me that I acted a little prematurely. Now, I find myself in a tricky situation. Weather-wise, 2026 is proving rather chaotic thus far, and in minutes, the sunny mornings have taken a somewhat wintry turn. Over the past month, getting dressed has been less about self-expression and more of a strategic defence, so for the time being, I've reshuffled my wardrobe to relegate shirred dresses and cropped capris to the back in exchange for pieces that lend themselves to transitional outfits. Naturally, I headed to COS.

As far as expensive-looking high-street brands go, for me, COS is the crème de la crème. Known for pared-back colourways, impeccable tailoring and elevated basics, I believe it's as close as you can get to a luxury brand at a more affordable price point. Its physical and digital shelves hold an expansive offering of transitional pieces, from editor-favourite jeans to softly structured blouses, lightweight cotton dresses and barrel-leg, linen-blend trousers.

Having tried on what felt like half the store, I was able to whittle my finds down into three concise looks. I think they showcase the best COS has to offer this spring.

1. Ruched Blouse + Tapered Jeans

(Image credit: @Imani_athina)

My Review: I was looking for pieces that could do more than survive this erratic season; they needed to earn a place in my spring capsule. My first port of call was a fail-safe formula: a blouse and jeans. Where my tried-and-true linen blouses are too lightweight whilst the weather's still chilly, COS’s Ruched Cotton Blouse hits the sweet spot; substantial enough for any cooler London day yet still with that pretty warm-weather sensibility. Staying true to size (a UK 8), the shirred waistband creates a proportional optical illusion, cinching my silhouette, whilst the structured balloon sleeves elongate and lengthen my arms.

I paired it with the Arch jeans, and the look was essentially complete. If you’re a regular Who What Wear UK reader, I’m sure you’re familiar with our undying loyalty to COS’s elevated denim offering, in particular, these jeans. If not, I’m happy to catch you up to speed. Sitting neatly at mid-rise, these structured denim jeans provide just the right amount of shape. The subtle barrel shape isn't significant enough to distort the elegant shape, but just enough to lend a cool finish. In my usual size 8, they fall to ankle-length, which is impressive, as I’m 5'10". They're available in a petite length too, so if you’re under 5'4", don't fret. The light-blue wash is suitably springlike.

Shop the Look:

COS

Ruched Cotton Blouse

This top will sell like hot cakes.

cos

Arch Tapered Jeans

A Who What Wear UK favourite.

2. Tiered Maxi Dress + Kitten-Heel Mules

(Image credit: @imani_athina)

My Review: There was already one piece I couldn't stop thinking about as I headed into the store, because I'd seen it all over my socials: the Gathered Tiered Cotton Maxi Dress. It delivers what many of us are looking for in transitional weather: easy shape, leg-covering length and ready to be layered under a spring jacket. Crafted from a lightweight cotton, this floaty design carries the same romantic ease as many of my favourite spring dresses, but with a lightly sculptural design, thanks to the softly gathered seams and pleats falling delicately throughout.

Staying true to size, this dress fell to my ankles (something to note if you're on the shorter side), and there was plenty of room to size down if I fancied a closer fit. Finished with a tiered maxi skirt and hidden pockets, it would be perfect for so many occasions, from a Sunday roast to a day exploring on a city break. It was the star of the show, which is why I purchased it on the spot.

Wanting to dress it up a little, I found myself searching for a shoe that would showcase the dress in all its glory. A ballet flat, whilst undeniably chic, felt a little too pared-back, whilst a trainer disrupted the mood, pulling it into casual territory. The moment I slipped on these Leather Kitten-Heel Mules, it was a match made in heaven. A minimalist pair of heels that wouldn’t look out of place in Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's footwear rotation, the clean-lined triangular heel shifts the outfit entirely. Balancing the dress's carefree essence, the mules make it feel grittier, cooler and far more "now" than any of the other options.

cos

Gathered Tiered Cotton Maxi Dress

If you like this dress, I'd be fast, as its selling out quickly.

COS

Leather Kitten-Heel Mules

These are also available in a soft bordeaux hue.

COS

Domed Mini Hoop Earrings

The perfect finishing touch,

3. T-Shirt + Linen Trousers + Flat Mules

(Image credit: @imani_athina)

My Review: There's something quietly powerful about a wardrobe that doesn't try too hard; a fact I was reminded of when creating this look. Having stumbled across these linen-blend trousers, it was the barrel-leg shape that first caught my eye. The elasticated waistband and deep side pockets make them undeniably practical, but it's the easily adjustable buttoned hems that really sell them. Whether styled high on the waist or slung low, they create a relaxed vibe I love.

With the trousers making a statement, I decided to keep my T-shirt as unfussy as possible, so I turned to a true wardrobe anchor: COS’s Clean-Cut T-Shirt. Thick enough to cover any rogue bra choices and loose enough to give a subtly oversized look, it's a staple within the wardrobes of the chicest fashion people, and I regularly pull it out when I hit a styling block. I sized up, which I think was the perfect choice to maintain the casual flow of the trousers.

Finally, I needed a shoe that could lift the look without disrupting its ease. I landed on the Draped Leather Mules. These modern, architectural mules have an elongated fold over the vamp, enveloping your foot and softening at the square toe. They bring a little drama but will work with so many casual looks.

Shop the Look:

COS

Clean Cut T-Shirt

I have this tee in almost all of the colourways.

COS

Elasticated Linen Barrel-Leg Trousers

Size down for a more accurate fit.

COS

Draped Leather Mules

I haven't seen any other styles like this.

Zara, H&M and COS Just Perfected the 5 Chicest Spring Trends—9 Stylish Pieces That Won't Stay in Stock

Marina Avraam — Wed, 15 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

If the return of sunshine has you scrolling TikTok in search of fresh outfit inspiration, you’re in the right place. As temperatures climb and heavier layers start to fall away, the urge to refresh your wardrobe with a few well-chosen pieces becomes hard to ignore. My first stops? Zara, H&M and COS.

So far this season, five key trends are emerging. Blouses are leading the charge—searches are up, and it’s the romantic, vintage-leaning styles with soft frills and delicate detailing that feel most relevant. Styled with straight-leg jeans and ballet flats, it’s the kind of effortless formula fashion editors return to every spring.

Marina wearing the Zara Satin Blouse and cream jeans. (Image credit: @marinaavraam)

Dresses, too, are firmly back on the agenda. Think airy, lightweight silhouettes elevated by subtle details—a polka dot here, a touch of ruching there. These are the pieces that feel considered but still easy, and the kind you’ll reach for year after year. Denim, of course, isn’t going anywhere, but there’s a noticeable shift towards lighter, ecru washes that instantly brighten a look. Accessories are following suit. Suede sandals are leading the way, adding texture and a sense of quiet polish, while bags are bigger, softer and woven—equally suited to city days and weekend escapes.

Unsurprisingly, Zara, H&M and COS have already mastered each of these trends. Scroll on to shop the best pieces now.

Shop The Best Zara, H&M and COS Spring Trends

1. Ruffled Blouses

ZARA

Zw Collection Romantic Blouse

A romantic blouse, but not overly so. Perfect with denim.

ZARA

Shiny Satin Blouse

Satin adds instant polish.

H&M

Pintucked Cotton Blouse

A crisp white blouse that goes with absolutely everything.

H&M

Balloon-Sleeved Blouse

Simple, slightly elevated, and endlessly useful.

COS

Ruched Cotton Blouse

This blouse is ruched just enough to feel interesting.

COS

Smocked Puff-Sleeve Blouse

Puff sleeves, done properly.

2. Airy Dresses

ZARA

Zw Collection Halter Dots Dress

Polka dots, but grown-up. The halter shape keeps it sleek—just add sandals and go.

ZARA

Embroidered Poplin Mini Dress

The kind of embroidered mini that does all the work for you. Easy, pretty, and instantly polished.

H&M

Denim Midi Dress

A throw-on midi you’ll wear on repeat. Light, effortless, and quietly chic.

H&M

Frill-Trimmed Off-The-Shoulder Dress

Clean, minimal, and endlessly versatile, this dress is spring dressing at its easiest.

H&M

Mesh Halterneck Dress

This dress is already all over my TikTok.

COS

Bias-Cut Linen-Blend Midi Dress

Bias-cut always equals elevated. This one feels easy, but looks considered.

COS

Gathered Tiered Cotton Maxi Dress

I love the tiered detail on this buttery yellow dress.

3. Light Jeans

ZARA

Jeans Z1975 Straight High-Waist Long Length

Straight-leg, high-waisted, and very polished. A spring essential.

ZARA

Trf Mid-Waist Baggy Balloon Jeans

The cream feels so elevated.

H&M

Barrel Leg Regular Waist Jeans

Clean, classic, and made to go with everything.

H&M

Wide Ultra High Jeans

An easy everyday pair you’ll keep reaching for.

COS

Patch-Pocket Straight-Leg Jeans

A softer take on white—this butter shade feels fresh for spring.

COS

Patch-Pocket Straight-Leg Jeans

The best-selling jeans rendered in a classy white.

4. Suede Sandals

H&M

Leather Flip-Flops

Soft suede instantly makes these feel more expensive.

H&M

Eyelet-Detail Sandals

The eye-let detail is so good.

ZARA

Split Suede Cage Shoes

The Fisherman sandal is back.

ZARA

Flat Leather Criss-Cross Sandals

Criss-cross sandals that go with absolutely everything.

ZARA

Split Suede Heeled Sandals

Easy and polished.

ZARA

Split Suede Slingback Shoes

A low heel that still feels effortless. Perfect for evenings.

5. Woven Bags

COS

Hand-Woven Market Tote - Straw

Textured, lightweight, and very spring-ready.

ZARA

Braided Maxi Tote Bag

Big, woven, and made for spring weekends.

H&M

Glittery Hole-Knit Handbag

A smaller version that still makes a statement.

ZARA

Braided Mini Tote Bag

Easy, throw-on, and instantly seasonal.

ZARA

Metallic Chain Crossbody Bag

A little more polished thanks to the chain detail.

ZARA

Plaited Crossbody Bag

Such a fun crossbody.

This Affordable, Quiet-Luxury Bag Is So The Row-Coded, and Every Chic Woman Already Owns It

Marina Avraam — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Aside from beautifully cut summer dresses, sharp tailoring and jeans that reliably reach cult status (hello, Reprise Jeans) COS has also quietly become one of the best places on the high street for designer-looking handbags. Case in point: its latest bowling bag, the Montmartre.

Marina wearing the COS Montmartre Bowling Bag (Image credit: @marinaavraam)

You may remember a few years ago when COS’s original bowling bag was everywhere; every chic woman seemed to buy it, and mass hysteria quickly ensued. This new iteration feels just as compelling. A smaller, more compact version, it carries that same quiet luxury appeal, but with a slightly more refined, The Row-coded finish.

Aptly named after one of Paris’s most effortlessly chic neighbourhoods, the Montmartre is crafted from premium Italian leather with a subtle grain that gives it that perfectly worn-in feel from the outset. The softly sculptural top-handle shape strikes that difficult balance between contemporary and timeless, while details like the gently pinched sides and double-ended zip add just enough interest.

Marina Torres wearing the COS Montmartre Bowling Bag. (Image credit: @marinatorres)

Naturally, It’s already made its way into some very good wardrobes—and it’s easy to see why. The leather is buttery soft, the finish is refined, and the overall effect is quiet luxury at its finest. Available in two elegant shades, black and a soft brown, shop the COS Montmartre Bowling Bag below.

Shop COS Montmartre Bowling Bag

COS

Montmartre Bowling Bag - Leather

Sleek, structured and quietly luxurious, this is the kind of bag that instantly sharpens even the simplest outfit.

COS

Montmartre Bowling Bag - Leather

The light brown is perfect for spring.

Shop The Row Bowling Bags

The Row

Agnes 12 Bag

With its soft structure and muted tone, this is the kind of bag that slips seamlessly into a very good wardrobe

The Row

Faye Bag

The gently curved silhouette and supple leather give it that effortless, fashion-person feel.

Shop More COS Bags

COS

Swing Crossbody Bag - Leather

The viral handbag is officially back in stock.

COS

Monument Tote Bag - Leather

The croc-effect finish adds texture and depth while still feeling refined and wearable.

COS

Plinth Crossbody Bag - Suede

This is the kind of everyday bag you’ll reach for without thinking.

COS

Townhouse Shopper Bag - Leather

A no-fuss, do-it-all tote that still feels elevated. Spacious enough for everything, but polished enough for anywhere.

COS

Sculpted Tote Bag - Suede

The suede finish gives it a relaxed richness that works perfectly for spring.

COS

Paradigm Tote Bag - Suede

This is a forever kind of piece.

COS

Knoll Shoulder Bag - Suede

The shape feels fresh, while the suede keeps it grounded.

COS

Avenue Tote Bag - Suede

The shape is everything.

COS

Easel Tote Bag - Suede

Rich in both colour and texture. It adds instant depth to neutral outfits without trying too hard.

COS

Archive Tote Bag - Nylon

The perfect travel bag.

The Fashion-Forward Spring Layers I Keep Spotting All Over NYC

audry.hiaoui@futurenet.com (Audry Hiaoui) — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 07:00:00 +0000

I was recently at a dinner party where someone was wearing the cutest little poncho, and I immediately wanted to know where it was from. It turned out to be a British label called Cecilie Telle. It felt like perfect timing because, just days earlier, I had been telling a friend that ponchos and capes were making a comeback, and she almost didn't believe me.

Not long after that conversation, she sent me a post of Emily Dawn Long wearing her namesake brand's River Shawl with the caption, "She's a top. She's a shawl. She's a scarf. She's a blanket"—half-jokingly responding with, "Ponchos and capes are in," finally getting what I meant.

A couple of weeks later, I saw another one at a birthday party. Then I noticed one in Paloma Wool's S/S 26 show, which made me take another look through the spring/summer runway shows. Capes and ponchos were in Balenciaga's, Dior's, Paloma Wool's, and Valentino's collections as well. After multiple sightings, from NYC to Instagram to the runways, my suspicion was confirmed: Ponchos and capes are definitely go-to layers for spring.

See the trend on the runway below, and shop the best ones I've found.

On the S/S 26 Runways

(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Spotlight/Valentino)

(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Spotlight/Dior)

(Image credit: Launchmetrics/Spotlight/Balenciaga)

(Image credit: Paloma Wool)

Shop Ponchos & Capes

Since I tend to run cold, even during the warmer months, I like having something cozy to throw on when it cools off in the evenings, when I'm heading into a restaurant, and when I'm taking the train. With capes and ponchos, I love how lightweight and easy to move in they are. I've been eyeing Cecilie Telle's Round Long Poncho and the under-$200 Cashmere-Wool Blend Poncho from J.Crew along with other options from brands such as COS, Massimo Dutti, Nüülee, Pucci, and more.

EMILY DAWN LONG

River Shawl

Cecilie Telle

Round Long Poncho

J.Crew

Cashmere-Wool Blend Poncho

Paloma Wool

No 2847 Boldo

ZARA

Asymmetric Interlock Cape

ZARA

Knit Cape With Contrasting Yarn Scarf

COS

Cropped Trench Coat Cape

COS

Merino-Cashmere Cape

COS

Cashmere Cape

Heiress Beverly Hills

The Sheer Cape

Massimo Dutti

Wool Blend Cape With Shirt Collar

SRG

Otto Cape

MANGO

Asymmetrical Knitted Cape

MANGO

Turtleneck Cape

PULI

Poncho Sweater With Buttons

Quince

Mongolian Cashmere Poncho in Ivory

Nüülee

Namiraa Cashmere Poncho

Frankies Bikinis

Mountain Cable Knit Poncho

Anthropologie

Knit Asymmetric Poncho

Los Angeles Apparel

Flex Fleece Turtleneck Cape

Pucci

Vivara Poncho

Back From Bali

Sheer Poncho

Monticelli Cashmere

Essential Pure Cashmere Poncho

Reformation

Lilibeth Cape

GUCCI

Horsebit-Detailed Wool and Silk-Blend Cape

CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION

Taylor Wool and Cashmere-Blend Cape

LORO PIANA

Belted Leather-Trimmed Cashmere Cape

Diotima

Winsome Wool Cape

PURDEY

Welbeck Reversible Whipstitched Checked Cashmere-Blend Cape

CELINE

Cape in Wool Felt

15 Anti-Trend Items From Zara, M&S and COS That Have My 58-Year-Old Mum and I Hooked

Poppy Nash — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 09:05:30 +0000

Those who know me know that I do not buy something without my mum's approval. After more than three decades as a fashion buyer, she’s an expert at knowing what’s truly worth investing in and what isn’t. She’s ruthless in the best way: always open to experimenting with new cuts, colours and styles, but never one to buy something on a whim. Above all, she avoids wearing whatever happens to be trending at the moment...

(Image credit: @POPPYNASH)

What’s interesting is that, despite a 30-year age gap, our tastes overlap more than they differ. Trends might come and go, but we both gravitate towards pieces that feel lasting—clean lines, great fabrics and silhouettes that don’t date. This week, instead of our usual back-and-forth over one brand, we compared notes across three of our most reliable high-street go-tos: COS, Zara and M&S. The brief was simple: we were after spring pieces that feel anti-trend but still fresh. Think TKTK tktkktktkt

The result? Fifteen anti-trend buys we both instantly agreed on. See our favourite anti-trend Zara, COS and M&S buys for spring 2026 below.

My mum and I regularly share the contents of our wardrobes with one another, despite a more than 30-year age gap.

Shop Our Favourite Anti-Trend Pieces From M&S, Zara and COS:

The Best Anti-Trend Pieces From Zara:

ZARA

Embroidered Short Sleeve Blouse

You can never go wrong with a classic white blouse and jeans.

ZARA

Double-Breasted 100% Linen Blazer With Shoulder Pads

Both my mum and I are on the hunt for a spring suit, and I think we've found it!

ZARA

100% Linen Straight Trousers

A chocolate brown option still feels timeless, but is just a slightly fresher option compared to black.

ZARA

Crossover Strap Sandals

A pair of sandals that are comfy and chic is an essential for the season ahead.

ZARA

Zw Collection Double-Breasted Buttoned Blazer

I'll take the entire look, please.

The Best Anti-Trend Pieces From COS:

COS

Pleated Belted Midi Dress

I have a black dress from COS from last summer and it's just the easiest thing to wear on a hot day when you have no energy to get dressed, but still want to look put together.

COS

Hand-Woven Tote

What would a spring/summer shopping edit be without a basket bag?

cos

Button-Down Linen Collar Shirt

I love black in summer, but I think navy always look a touch more elegant.

cos

Scarf-Detail Blouse

The is the perfect top to wear with shorts, jeans or trousers in the evening.

cos

Facade Straight Jeans

My mum and I both love this faded blue wash.

The Best Anti-Trend Pieces From M&S:

M&S

Pure Cotton Drop Waist Midi Waisted Dress

M&S always nails it when it comes to great summer dresses.

M&S

Linen Blend Pleat Front Wide Leg Trousers

My mum lives in M&S linen from March to September.

M&S

Pure Lycocell Pleated Bomber Jacket

A slightly more trend-led piece, but the simple colour and cut of this jacket make it timeless, too.

M&S

Suede Crossover Footbed Sandals

We bought these in the olive and the black.

M&S

Pure Cotton Printed Button Through Blouse

The definition of anti-trend!