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.

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

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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

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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.

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

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.

“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

Shop New-In Pieces From Mango

Shop New-In Pieces From COS

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.

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

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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.

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

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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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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.

2. COS Embroidered Midi Dress

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.

3. COS Jersey-Panelled Mini Dres

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.

4. COS A-Line Maxi Dress

Style Notes: COS has a series of best-sellers that it brings back every single year, and this dress is one of them. For summer 2026, the easy, loose style comes in a deep burgundy shade as well as a refined navy version.

5. COS Twist-Detail Midi Dress

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.

Shop More High Street Dresses We Adore

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.

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:

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:

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:

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:

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:

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:

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:

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.

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

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.

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

2. My Top Picks from H&M

3. My Top Picks from COS

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

2. Embroidered Blouses

3. Scarf Blouse

4. Polka-Dot Blouse

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.

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.

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

2. Boho Broderie

3. Delicate Draping

4. Playful Prints

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.

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

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.

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2. Tiered Maxi Dress + Kitten-Heel Mules

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.

3. T-Shirt + Linen Trousers + Flat Mules

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.

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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.

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

2. Airy Dresses

3. Light Jeans

4. Suede Sandals

5. Woven Bags

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.

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.

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

Shop The Row Bowling Bags

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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...

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:

The Best Anti-Trend Pieces From COS:

The Best Anti-Trend Pieces From M&S:

When I checked the weather forecast over the weekend and saw that the UK was set for a “heatwave” this week, I immediately noticed a gap in my wardrobe. Between chunky cashmere knits and thermal layers, my lighter spring pieces felt noticeably lacking—especially in the dress department. Naturally, this called for a virtual shopping trip. My first ports of call? Zara, COS and Reformation.

Why do I need three brands to fulfil all my dress shopping needs? Because each brand brings something entirely different to the table, and together, they cover every dress need imaginable. Zara is my go-to for affordable, trend-led styles. Think lace detailing, polka dots, puff sleeves and cinched waists, the kind of easy, throw-on dresses that work just as well for everyday wear as they do for holidays. COS, on the other hand, leans into minimalism with a sculptural edge. Its dresses feel refined and quietly luxurious, with a focus on quality and timeless silhouettes I know I’ll reach for year after year.

And then there’s Reformation. When the occasion calls for something a little more elevated, whether it’s a wedding, a party or simply a standout moment, Ref is always my first stop. Its dresses strike that perfect balance between statement and re-wearability.

Keep scrolling to shop the best dresses from Zara, COS and Reformation below.

Shop The Best Zara, COS and Reformation Dresses

After months of icy breezes and grey days, spring is set to arrive in the blink of an eye. Overnight, the warmer days and bright sunshine will become a mainstay, and I've spent the past few weeks preparing my wardrobe for the switchover. Truthfully, I'm feeling a little impatient about spring's arrival now, desperate for the weather to warm up so that I can slip out of heavy layers and throw on light spring dresses.

At 5'2", I'm used to a slight delay coming with my new pieces. Jeans, trousers and dresses often require an extra few days after arrival to be hemmed at my local dry cleaners before I can add them into my daily rotation. Having waited patiently for spring's arrival for weeks now, I don't plan on wasting any more time for a tailor to edit my dresses for my petite frame. Instead, I set aside a few hours to hunt for the best petite spring dresses that can be thrown on as soon as they arrive on my (or your) doorstep. Feel free to thank me later.

Truthfully, I've only started embracing dresses over the past few years. As a dedicated wearer of jeans and trousers, my collection is still pretty small, but after discovering the ease of dresses, I'm ready to expand my wardrobe this spring. Whilst there are a few brands that have dedicated petite sections (thank you, Reformation, ASOS, Abercrombie & Fitch and more), what about the brands we adore that don't specialise in shorter length styles?

I've spent the past few weeks poring over Zara's new in section, saving COS's latest styles to my basket and imagining all the ways I'd style up H&M and Mango dresses for spring. Yesterday, I decided to head in store to see if any of our favourite high street brands would work on a 5'2" frame, and I've found four standout styles that don't require a trip to your local tailor. Scroll on to explore the four petite dresses I just tried on, and a selection of petite dresses that are also on my wish list right now.

1. Zara Midi Linen Blend Dress

Style Notes: Zara fans, rejoice! Whilst many of the brand's pieces come up long (the jeans, for example), this season's midi dresses are suited for petite statures. My favourite is this deep navy style, which hugs the silhouette and is formed from a linen-blend fabric, making it ideal for spring and summer days. If you like the look, just wait until you see the back!

2. COS Twist-Detail Jersey Midi Dress

Style Notes: COS is known for its tailoring expertise, and it brings this sculptural approach to dresses for spring 2026. Meet the twist-detail dress, a soft jersey style that flows with the body while adding a touch of drama with its twisted fabric. Personally, I love a bit of draping around my middle section, especially when the form is this elegant. I plan on dressing this down for day with simple sandals and a loose shirt, or taking to evening with suede mules.

3. Mango Handkerchief A-Line Dress

Style Notes: Last year I saved so many chic outfits which featured a scarf tied around the waist. The hard part was finding the right scarf for the job but now Mango has a solution. The pre-prepared scarf-belt-dress balances a timeless form with modern styling, pretty yet contemporary and enduringly chic. The fit was perfect, and I paired it simply with a pair of leather ballet flats (which were incredibly comfortable if you're in the market for a pair!)