As the days get longer and the temperature begins to climb (albeit slowly), my mind naturally drifts towards spring dressing. Now is the time to showcase the art of transitional styling, and whilst I’m not packing away my knitwear just yet, I’m definitely starting to build out my warm-weather wardrobe. For me, this time of year calls for fresh yet timeless pieces—items that exude effortless elegance without looking like I’m trying too hard. I love the idea of investing in designer staples, but I’m also partial to pieces that feel (and look) just as elevated without the hefty price tag. That’s why when I’m looking to refresh my wardrobe with expensive-looking essentials, COS is my first port of call.
(Image credit: COS)
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know that COS has become the high-street destination for elevated staples that genuinely look and feel designer. Known for clean lines, premium fabrics and thoughtful details, COS pieces have a knack for feeling both directional and timeless—just what I’m looking for in my wardrobe. Whether it’s a sculptural shirt, a sleek pair of trousers or a minimalist bag, COS nails that hard-to-find balance between style and practicality. The brand’s spring 2025 collection is no exception, filled with refined pieces that feel right for now but will carry me through the seasons ahead. As someone who prefers to invest in versatile staples rather than fleeting trends, I know these are the kind of items that will work hard in my wardrobe.
(Image credit: COS)
This season, I’m gravitating towards refined layering pieces, fluid tailoring and polished accessories that will elevate my spring wardrobe without much effort. I’ve already bookmarked a few key buys that will work seamlessly with the staples I already own—think crisp shirts that I can wear under my favourite trench, cool and comfy wide-leg trousers and sleek bags that will be perfect for both everyday errands and after-work drinks. Below, I’ve rounded up my favourite new-in COS pieces that I want to add to my wardrobe for my chicest spring yet.
Shop My Favourite Spring New-In Pieces From COS:
1. Layering Basics
First up, every great spring wardrobe starts with reliable layering pieces—essential tanks, tees and shirts that make outfit-building effortless. A crisp poplin shirt can be styled in multiple ways, from buttoned-up with tailored trousers to loosely layered over a ribbed tank and paired with denim. Meanwhile, fitted tees provide the perfect base for blazers or lightweight trenches as the seasons shift, and COS has them in plenty of colours.
Shop Layering Basics:
COS
Clean Cut Regular T-Shirt
Sometimes, a simple white tee is all you need to complete an outfit, and COS’s classic Clean Cut tee has just the right amount of structure. I’ll be styling it with wide-leg jeans and a chunky belt for an easy spring look.
COS
Oversized Tailored Shirt
An oversized shirt is a spring essential with so many ways to wear. This one has a relaxed silhouette without feeling shapeless. I can see it working beautifully tucked into tailored trousers or worn loose over a fitted tank.
This fitted, ribbed tank has already become a COS cult favourite, and for good reason. The high neckline and thick straps make it super versatile, and the quality is impressive for the price.
COS
Clean Cut Regular Long-Sleeved T-Shirt
The long sleeves make this tee ideal for layering under jackets, whilst the breathable cotton keeps it comfortable throughout the day.
2. Elegant Trousers
A well-cut pair of trousers instantly elevates an outfit, and this season’s selection offers both tailored and relaxed options to mix things up. Wide-leg silhouettes bring an understated elegance, whilst barrel-leg styles tap into one of spring’s biggest trends. Whether styled with an oversized shirt for work or a simple tank for weekends, these trousers have a versatility that makes them an essential part of any wardrobe.
Shop Trousers:
COS
Relaxed Twill Wide-Leg Trousers
These could easily be fresh off the runway. The soft drape and subtle pleats make them feel ultra-refined, and the high waist makes them easy to style.
COS
Elongated Capri Trousers
Capri trousers are back for spring, and this elongated pair nails the silhouette without feeling too extreme.
COS
Elasticated Barrel-Leg Trousers
Is it even a spring edit without a pair of barrel-leg trousers? I’ll be pairing mine with fitted tops to balance out the volume.
COS
Wide-Leg Cotton Trousers
When comfort is key, these wide-leg cotton trousers are a no-brainer. They still look casual enough for weekend brunch, especially when styled with trainers and a cardigan.
3. Transitional Jackets
Spring outerwear needs to be both stylish and functional, and this year’s jacket trends balance those elements beautifully. A belted trench is the ultimate transitional staple, offering lightweight coverage with a polished feel. For something more casual, a boxy denim jacket is an easy throw-on option for spring looks. Designed with clean lines and timeless appeal, these jackets will work season after season.
Shop Jackets:
COS
Knitted-Collar Trench Coat
A trench coat is an undisputed spring staple, and this one has a clean minimalist silhouette that feels particularly fresh with the addition of the knitted collar.
This strikes the perfect balance between smart and casual. It’s an easy piece that’ll instantly elevate even the simplest outfits.
COS
Collared Cotton Car Jacket
I’ve already got this in my basket, and I’m planning on wearing it over slip dresses or with tailored trousers for a contemporary spin.
COS
Oversized Fluid Single-Breasted Blazer
I invested in a COS blazer last year, and it’s one of the hardest-working pieces in my wardrobe. This oversized version feels perfect for spring.
4. Do-it-All Bags
A great bag can transform even the simplest outfits, and this season’s structured designs are perfect for adding an elevated touch. Suede totes, quilted bags and ’90s-esque leather shoulder bags offer a mix of minimalism and texture, making them easy to pair with so many looks. Whether you need something practical for busy days or a refined option for evening plans, these bags strike the right balance of style and function.
Shop Bags:
COS
Small Studio Bowling Bag – Suede
This structured suede bag has a distinctly designer feel, but be quick because it’s sure to sell out.
I can already tell this quilted shoulder bag will become my new go-to.
COS
Eastside Bowling Bag – Leather
East-west bags are still going strong, and this sleek style nails the trend whilst feeling understated enough for everyday wear.
COS
Alcove Mini Tote Bag – Suede
As soon as I spotted this mini tote, I was in love. The moss green shade is beautiful.
5. Classic Denim
Denim is a year-round staple, but fresh cuts and clean finishes make spring’s styles particularly appealing. Wide and straight-leg silhouettes feel cool, whilst tapered and barrel-leg options offer an easy way to tap into key seasonal denim trends. With minimal detailing and premium-feeling fabrics, these jeans work seamlessly with both casual and tailored pieces, ensuring they’ll remain a go-to well beyond spring.
Shop Denim:
The Arch jeans are a Who What Wear UK editor favourite. The slightly tapered silhouette feels very 2025.
Barrel-leg jeans are ideal for styling with flats or mules as the weather warms up.
COS
Volume Wide-Leg Jeans
These wide-leg jeans have the effortless, relaxed silhouette I’m looking for this season.
COS
Column Straight-Leg Jeans
For a more classic option, these straight-leg jeans are endlessly versatile.
6. Sophisticated Shoes
Shoes can make or break an outfit, and COS’s selection of refined yet wearable styles never lets me down. Classic loafers add a modern touch to tailored outfits, sleek leather heels are perfect for warm-weather event dressing and minimalist Mary Janes offer an easy way to elevate everyday looks. Designed with versatility in mind, these shoes will carry you through spring and beyond.
Shop Shoes:
COS
Pleated Leather Mary-Jane Ballet Flats
In my opinion, Mary Janes are the ultimate spring shoe, and these are both elegant and practical.
COS
Square-Toe Leather Court Shoes
I love how refined court shoes add a classic twist to even the simplest outfits.
COS
Pintucked Leather Penny Loafers
These loafers are an instant wardrobe upgrade. They’re sleek, comfortable and perfect for transitional dressing.
COS
Toe-Post Heeled Sandals
For those occasional warm spring days, these toe-post kitten heels are pared-back yet impactful.
