I Tried On COS's Latest Luxe Release—These Items Are Poised to Sell Out by Summer.
I'll confess that I was quick to pull out my broidere anglaise blouses and light linen two-pieces at the first hint of spring, but the rain and cool breeze this week reminded me that my timing was a bit off. Now, I find myself in a bit of a predicament. So far, the weather in 2026 has been quite unpredictable, with sunny mornings quickly turning wintry. For the past month, my dressing routine has shifted from self-expression to a strategic approach, and I’ve rearranged my wardrobe, putting shirred dresses and cropped capris aside in favor of items suitable for transitional outfits. Naturally, I went to COS. Among affordable high-street brands, COS stands out for me. Renowned for its minimalist color palette, excellent tailoring, and elevated basics, it’s as close as you can get to luxury without the high price tag. Their physical and online stores offer a wide selection of transitional pieces, including editor-favorite jeans, elegantly structured blouses, lightweight cotton dresses, and linen-blend barrel-leg trousers. After trying on what felt like half the store, I managed to narrow my selections down to three standout looks that highlight what COS has to offer this spring.
1. Ruched Blouse + Tapered Jeans
(Image credit: @Imani_athina)
My Thoughts: I was on the hunt for pieces that could do more than just weather this unpredictable season; they needed to find a place in my spring capsule. My first go-to was a reliable combination: a blouse paired with jeans. While my usual linen blouses were too thin for the still-cool weather, COS’s Ruched Cotton Blouse was just right—substantial enough for chilly days yet maintaining a touch of springtime charm. Sticking to my usual size (UK 8), the shirred waistband created a flattering illusion, cinching my waist, while the structured balloon sleeves elongated my arms. I paired it with the Arch jeans, completing the look. If you’re a regular reader of Who What Wear UK, you’ll know of our unwavering affection for COS’s elevated denim line, especially these jeans. If you’re new to this, let me catch you up. These mid-rise structured denim jeans offer the perfect amount of shape. The subtle barrel cut is not too pronounced, maintaining an elegant silhouette while adding a cool vibe. In my usual size 8, they hit just above my ankles, which is great for my height of 5'10". They also come in a petite fit, so if you're under 5'4", no need to worry. The light-blue wash is perfectly spring-like.
Shop the Look:
This top will be a hot seller.
A Who What Wear UK favorite.
2. Tiered Maxi Dress + Kitten-Heel Mules
(Image credit: @imani_athina)
My Thoughts: There was one piece I had been eagerly thinking about as I entered the store, having seen it everywhere on social media: the Gathered Tiered Cotton Maxi Dress. It offers what many of us seek for transitional weather: a simple silhouette, full-length coverage, and the ability to layer beneath a spring jacket. Made from lightweight cotton, the flowing design embodies the romantic ease of my favorite spring dresses, enhanced by the softly gathered seams and pleats that add a gentle sculptural quality. Sticking to my size, the dress reached my ankles (something to bear in mind if you're on the shorter side), and there was enough room to consider sizing down for a closer fit. With a tiered maxi skirt and hidden pockets, it would be ideal for various occasions, from a Sunday roast to a day of exploring in a new city. It truly stood out, which is why I bought it on the spot. To elevate the look, I searched for shoes that would complement the dress perfectly. Ballet flats, while undeniably chic, felt a bit too simple, and sneakers would have made it too casual. The moment I tried on these Leather Kitten-Heel Mules, it was a perfect match. These minimalist heels could easily fit into Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's shoe collection, and their clean triangular heel transformed the outfit entirely. Balancing the dress's carefree spirit, the mules added a bit of edge, coolness, and a contemporary feel.
If you like this dress, act fast as it’s selling out quickly.
These mules are also available in a soft bordeaux shade.
The perfect finishing touch are the domed mini hoop earrings.
3. T-Shirt + Linen Trousers + Flat Mules
(Image credit: @imani_athina)
My Thoughts: There's something quietly impactful about a wardrobe that doesn’t overdo it; a truth I was reminded of while creating this look. I discovered these linen-blend trousers, and it was their barrel-leg shape that initially drew my attention. The elastic waistband and deep side pockets make
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I Tried On COS's Latest Luxe Release—These Items Are Poised to Sell Out by Summer.
I spent a day at COS and discovered three outfits ideal for spring. Scroll down to see my selections.
