High Street
Feb 15, 2023

I've Assembled 5 Impressive Workwear Outfits Entirely From COS

by Remy Farrell

As soon as your alarm goes off for another day at work, the last thing on your mind is having to put together an outfit that is as fashionable as it is functional, and just like that, it's easy to slip into the habit of rewearing the same outfit formula on repeat to save yourself some valuable minutes of waking-up time. Sound familiar? You aren't alone. And once the dreaded "style rut" sets in, it can be difficult to think of what to wear to work that will comfy, commute-ready and, most importantly, chic. Thanks to COS, I've just found the solution.

Workwear clothing needn't be drab pinstripes, ill-fitting tailoring and uncomfortable court shoes, something that COS knows all too well. (In fact, I even wore COS on my first day in the Who What Wear office.) With the new season in sight, there's no reason you can't embrace all of the colours, textures and silhouettes of spring in a way that's also office appropriate. Enter COS's brand of understated, timeless pieces that toe the line between workwear foundations and everyday essentials. We're talking about wide-leg trousers, oversized shirts, refined co-ords and plenty of polished accessories.

To help take the stress out of your daily routine, I've assembled five easy desk-to-dinner outfits from COS that still keep your off-the-clock style so you can make the most of every piece in your wardrobe. Thankfully, most workplaces have a more casual dress code (and any time we can wear jeans is a bonus), so you can mix and match pieces from the below looks for your office outfits, weekend plans and even after-work drinks, so you needn't worry about having to carry a change of shoes. Our edit also pays close attention to outfit-elevating accessories like smart handbags and a trusty pair of loafers that will go with just about anything. Keep scrolling for every new-in piece a fashion editor would buy now from COS to build countless workwear outfits. They're every bit as good as they sound.

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COS Twill Utility Shirt

Twill Utility Shirt

Belt the waist to create an hourglass silhouette that works perfectly with longer skirts.

COS Pleated Linen-Blend Midi Skirt

Pleated Linen-Blend Midi Skirt

As soon as the warmer weather rolls around, you'll appreciate a linen skirt.

COS Classic Leather Belt

Classic Leather Belt

Don't limit belts to just holding up trousers—this easy piece is the stylist's secret to making simple outfits feel well accessorised.

COS Quilted Velvet Mules

Quilted Velvet Mules

We're still not tired of mules, especially a textured pair.

COS Large Two-Tone Hoop Earrings

Large Two-Tone Hoop Earrings

A contemporary spin on the everyday hoop earring.

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COS Cropped Twill Jacket

Cropped Twill Jacket

This jacket is already a winner, but the cream colourway makes it feel undeniably luxe.

COS Slim-Fit Merino Wool Turtleneck Top

Slim-Fit Merino Wool Turtleneck Top

Layer up in similar shades for an easy way to make an outfit look expensive.

COS Twill Mini Skirt

Twill Mini Skirt

Yes, you can wear a miniskirt in the office. Just add a pair of tights to keep out the chill.

COS Chunky Leather Loafers

Chunky Leather Loafers

These glossy patent loafers are the perfect blend of business casual.

COS Twisted Link Short Necklace

Twisted Link Short Necklace

Sorry, chunky chains—this twisted-link necklace is at the top of my list now.

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COS Flared-Sleeve Ribbed-Panel Top

Flared-Sleeve Ribbed-Panel Top

Sure, this ribbed-knit top looks good with wide-leg trousers, but it's even better as a full co-ord.

COS Flared Ribbed-Panel Midi Skirt

Flared Ribbed-Panel Midi Skirt

The unexpected longer hem will also work well with flat sandals in summer.

COS Square-Toe Crossover Leather Ballet Flats

Square-Toe Crossover Leather Ballet Flats

We're obsessed with ballet flats, but the square toe sets these apart from the rest.

COS Curved Leather Shoulder Bag

Curved Leather Shoulder Bag

Big enough to hold all of your everyday essentials.

COS Layered Stud Earrings

Layered Stud Earrings

At only £17, you can afford to invest in a couple of pairs of these statement studs.

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COS Minimal Short Trench Coat

Minimal Short Trench Coat

Looking for a transitional jacket? You just found it.

COS Long-Sleeved Scoop-Neck Top

Long-Sleeved Scoop-Neck Top

Every wardrobe should have some jersey basics for layering under jackets, shirts, coats and dresses.

COS Tapered Ankle-Length Jeans

Tapered Ankle-Length Jeans

One of the biggest jeans trends to emerge this spring is the barrel leg, and this tapered pair nods to the trend without being too drastic.

COS Leather Baguette Shoulder Bag

Leather Baguette Shoulder Bag

I wouldn't blame you for thinking that this sleek bag is designer.

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COS Draped-Sleeve Mélange Wool Blazer

Draped-Sleeve Mélange Wool Blazer

I can already think of at least 10 different ways to wear this blazer.

COS Oversized Long Sleeve Shirt

Oversized Long Sleeve Shirt

White shirts are a classic, but pale-blue shirts give a menswear-inspired feel.

COS Pleated Wide-Leg Wool Trousers

Pleated Wide-Leg Wool Trousers

A cool suit like this needs relaxed wide-leg trousers to stop it from feeling stuffy and dated.

COS Chunky Canvas Trainers

Chunky Canvas Trainers

The best way to breathe new life into a suit? A pair of chunky white trainers.

COS Leather Crossbody Bag

Leather Crossbody Bag

It's a best seller and a Who What Wear favourite for very good reason.