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.
1. KNITTED POLO SHIRT + MIDI SKIRT + MULES
Style Notes: Lucky for us the styling is made easy, thanks to the fitted waistband on the sweatshirt. Wear it on top of the skirt and add a belt to further accentuate this feature and add a contrasting colour. The polished gold accent on the belt matches with the earrings, making this piece feel more uniform.
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The cinched waist creates an hourglass silhouette that works perfectly with longer skirts.
You'll always appreciate a white midi skirt.
Don't limit belts to just holding up trousers—this easy piece is the stylist's secret to making simple outfits feel well accessorised.
We're still not tired of slingbacks, especially a textured pair.
A contemporary spin on the everyday hoop earring.
2. CROPPED JACKET + TROUSERS + LOAFERS
Style Notes: Make the most of wool textures whilst the weather is still chilly, with this cropped jacket trouser suit combination. The combination of the cropped jacket with the androgynous Penny loafers is a great mix for the office.
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This jacket is already a winner, but the cream colourway makes it feel undeniably luxe.
Layer up in similar shades for an easy way to make an outfit look expensive.
The best trousers on the high street right now.
These penny loafers are the perfect blend of business casual.
Sorry, chunky chains—this twisted-link necklace is at the top of my list now.
3. BLAZER + SKIRT CO-ORD + BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: One thing is for certain, you'll want to take this chic look straight from the office to after-work dos. It's contemporary tailoring at its finest and the knitted blazer is a refreshing take on suiting.
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Sure, this knitted blazer top looks good with wide-leg trousers, but it's even better with a knitted skirt.
The unexpected longer hem will also work well with flat sandals in summer.
We're obsessed with ballet flats, but the gathered toe detail and square buckle sets these apart from the rest.
Big enough to hold all of your everyday essentials.
At only £25, you can afford to invest in a couple of pairs of these statement studs.
4. SHORT TRENCH + JEANS + LOAFERS
Style Notes: If you're lucky enough to have a relaxed office dress code (like the WWW office), this look is for you. It's cool, with transitional separates that you'll get ample wear out of on off-duty days, too.
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Looking for a transitional jacket? You just found it.
Every wardrobe should have some jersey basics for layering under jackets, shirts, coats and dresses.
If jeans feel appropriate for your place of work, then why not try one of the biggest trends to emerge this year: the barrel leg. This tapered pair nods to the trend without being too drastic.
It's a best seller and a Who What Wear favourite for very good reason.
Add loafers for extra polish.
5. SUIT + KNEE-HIGH BOOTS + SHOULDER BAG
Style Notes: Skorts have come to disrupt the regular suiting schedule and I'm here for it. Although this look has fun trendy elements it will still transcend to more formal workplaces.
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I can already think of at least 10 different ways to wear this blazer.
White shirts are a classic and this one has a menswear-inspired feel.
A cool suit like this needs relaxed wide-leg skorts to stop it from feeling stuffy and dated.
The best way to breathe new life into a suit? A pair of chunky white trainers.
I wouldn't blame you for thinking that this sleek bag is designer.
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