Let’s be honest. Unless you’re rolling in the dough, buying luxurious wardrobe pieces isn’t always possible. Even as an editor, I can’t tell you how often my colleagues and I have messaged over Slack about our desire to buy Totême or Prada, knowing very well that it’s not in the cards for us at the moment. But just because we lack the means doesn’t mean that we can’t still find affordable clothing that gives off “rich energy” for less. In fact, there’s a slew of places our team loves to shop for luxe staples—including everywhere from Zara to our very own Who What Wear Collection. And while I love those shops just as much as the next editor, I’d be lying if I didn’t say that my favorite is COS. Every time I scroll through its new-arrivals section, I’m left gawking over the retailer’s ability to take classic wardrobe pieces and make them feel luxe through unique hemlines, colors, and fabrics. No other retailer in my mind understands the assignment quite like COS, so you can see why I was overjoyed when it announced its 2022 summer sale. Finding fabulous basics on sale is fantastic in and of itself, but shopping the sale section on COS? Top-tier life experience. So as COS’s summer sale nears an end, I’ve taken the liberty of rounding up the best staples to buy right now. And since its pieces always manage to sell out quickly, I’ve also rounded up a few other staples worth purchasing (so that you don’t have FOMO). Your new favorite wardrobe essential is a scroll away.
This silhouette is not only incredibly sleek, but it’s also office friendly.
I can not emphasize enough the importance of owning at least one trench coat. It’s the key to making any outfit look more expensive.
Loafer lovers, this is all you.
Suiting never ceases to amaze me.
Opting for a button-down in silk is the easiest way to inject a little luxury into your everyday wardrobe.
All of COS’s trousers are just *chef’s kiss*.
The perfect hat for the summer, if I don’t say so myself.
A belted shirtdress will never be a bad buy.
You’ll wear this blazer for years to come.
Plissé will always make everything look more posh.
My craving for chocolate-brown trousers has now been satisfied.
Pro tip: elevate your staples by investing in unique jewelry (like these earrings).
I can guarantee that this will become your go-to summer top.
Who said low-rise denim couldn’t look luxe?
Bomber jackets are back, so this is a great sale buy for the fall.
It’s hard to find a chic denim skirt, yet COS has managed to create the perfect one.
A little puff-sleeve number is never a bad idea.
This color!
Your search for an everyday miniskirt is over.
Come fall, you’ll be grateful you bought these on sale.
Y’all don’t understand; I’m obsessed with this dress.
COS is always great about adding a dash of spice to a staple piece—e.g., these saffron-hued slides.
Chain necklaces are a staple piece in my books.
I’m still not over waistcoats.
The relaxed fit of these trousers is so on-trend right now.
There’s nothing I love more in life than knitted dresses.
It’s giving Bottega Veneta vibes, but for less.
The silhouette on this cardigan is divine.
Tailored shorts are arguably the easiest way to make all your summer outfits look more expensive.
I’m obsessed with the cinched waist on this dress.
Oversize totes are having a moment again, and I’m not mad about it.
Meet your new favorite T-shirt.
This may be a controversial take, but Bermuda shorts are that summer staple. You can dress them up or down, you don’t have to worry about them being too short, and they’re so comfortable.
I love when a classic dress silhouette comes in a trendy color.
Is it even summer if you don’t have a great linen button-down?
Pleated skirts are a favorite of mine, so you better believe this one is in my cart right now.
These sunnies are so chic.
Dreaming of wearing this open-knit polo by the water.
Found: the perfect pair of jeans.
Now here’s a dress that will work for any upcoming special occasion.
