I Just Assembled 5 Expensive-Looking Autumn Outfits Entirely From COS

Despite forging a career for myself in fashion, I secretly find autumn a really difficult time to dress for. A dress girl at heart, I love how summer lends itself to floaty, oversized pieces that I just have to slip on with sandals and I’m set. I find so much joy in dressing for warmer months, and shopping is something I particularly relish between May and September. But when autumn hits, the nerves creep in, and I start to lose my confidence when it comes to new-season clothes. To combat this, there is one thing I always rely on as the leaves start to brown and the days get darker, and that is a solid bank of timeless, stylish and easy outfits that I feel good in. And for this, I head to the high street.

One of my favourite destinations for this type of shopping is COS. Full of elevated basics that always impress, the brand has everything from designer-style outerwear to mix-and-match tailoring and leather handbags to expensive-looking earrings. To prove it’s home to myriad classic autumnal hits, I’ve put together five chic ensembles that will serve you—and me—well as we move through the seasons. And if you’re just looking for inspiration as to what to update your wardrobe with this year, consider this your guide. 

Scroll down to discover my five go-to autumn COS outfits as well as all the pieces you need to help re-create them. 

1. FOR RUNNING WEEKEND ERRANDS

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(Image credit: WHO WHAT WEAR)

Style Notes: I love this easy autumnal look. Perfect for running errands at the weekend or a weekday spent working from home, it pairs an on-trend striped knit with simple straight-leg jeans, chic flats and a timeless trench. A winning combo.

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2. FOR A SMART DINNER

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Style Notes: Leather midi skirts are so stylish. Opt for luxe olive green, and sandwich it between sleek black separates. This cape-sleeve top will help balance out the a-line shape of the skirt, while knee-high boots add height. Accessorize with gold jewellery to complete the look.

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3. FOR THE OFFICE TO AFTER-WORK DRINKS

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Style Notes: The whole Who What Wear team is in agreement: Three-piece suits are just so cool. Add statement heels or swap in trainers for a more casual take. 

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4. FOR A COUNTRY ESCAPE

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Style Notes: COS is one of my favourite high-street destinations for quality outerwear. Pair this designer-style padded coat with leggings, chunky boots and a relaxed knit before adding a crossbody bag and a bright scarf for a pop of colour. 

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5. FOR DATE NIGHT

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Style Notes: This is such a great date-night look. The gathered detail and low back on this chiffon maxi dress keep it looking modern, while heeled mules and dainty jewellery help add an evening-appropriate touch. 

Up Next: H&M's Expensive-Looking Autumn Edit Is So Good—I Need You to See It

Managing Editor

Poppy joined the Who What Wear UK team as managing editor in 2022. After graduating from university with a degree in English literature, she worked for a number of print and digital publications, including Women's Health, The Times, Hello!, SheerLuxe and international editions of Maire Claire, and acted as an editorial and celebrity stylist. As WWW UK’s managing editor, Poppy spends most of her time looking after all on-site content in addition to working with contributors, supporting the editorial team and contributing to strategy, social media and branded content.

Born and raised in London, Poppy is a true city girl. When she's not thinking about clothes, Poppy fills her time walking along the river with her labradoodle, getting stuck in a good book and enjoying as many of the city’s amazing restaurants and bars as her purse will allow!