Shopping for fashion enthusiasts can be hard. I know my family always contemplates buying gift cards for my birthday and holidays because they know how picky I can be. While I’m always grateful to receive some spending money, there’s just something about being handed a present to unwrap that hits differently. As the holidays are quickly approaching, I’ve already begun to get texts from people asking for help on what to get that one fashion lover like me in their lives. And when I respond, I always include a link to something from COS.
I’m not alone. COS is an all-time favorite spot among my co-workers. No matter the season, you can always find a Who What Wear editor sporting something from the simple yet oh-so-cool brand. So I asked five of my stylish friends to peek at the site and choose the pieces that they not only love but that would also make great presents. Keep scrolling for 10 editor-approved things you can wrap up for the holidays that even your most stylish friend will adore.
“Giving clothing as a gift is a guessing game. (It’s just so difficult to predict someone else’s style.) But everyone loves (or needs) a coat like this, so it’s an exception to my rule. The pillowy fabric is so on-trend. It’s impossible to not make this coat work with your existing wardrobe (reason #6387 why I also need this in my life). And an added bonus? It’s made more sustainably with recycled materials.”
“As someone who’s into handbags, I’m a huge fan of COS accessories. They always look way more expensive than they are and really nail that clean minimal aesthetic. But don’t worry—this bag’s bubblegum-pink shade will ensure that it’s no wallflower. Draped over a dark wool coat, this would look so incredibly chic.”
“Santa is probably so over the fact that I ask to be sent this stunning plaid wool coat once a week. But can you blame me? It’s too chic.”
“Winter isn’t always wonderful, but this black turtleneck sweater-dress is. As someone who lives in knitted dresses, the idea of giving (or receiving) this makes the cold all the more bearable.”
“This cozy cardigan could not be softer if it tried. I love the oversize fit, the deep V-neck, and the soft blush color. It’s a neutral without being a neutral.”
“When it comes to chic winter color combos, navy and black are always at the top of my list. This silky mini can be dressed up with heels for an evening event or worn with a turtleneck and chunky boots for something a bit more casual. It’s also made from sustainably-sourced materials, so I’ll always feel good about wearing it.”
“I’ll be the first to admit that layering is not one of my sartorial strong suits. But when I laid eyes on this beautiful mohair vest, it sparked something in me. The open side and wide collar give off the coolest layered look without any bulkiness. I love the idea of wearing this underneath a boxy blazer or layering it atop a button-down shirt for an added pop of color. Okay, maybe I can be a layering pro after all.”
“I’ve been on the hunt for a classic wool coat for quite some time now, and to me, this one is about as close to perfection as you can get. It checks all my boxes: a belted waist, neutral beige color, and below-the-knee hem. Truly a functional and timeless forever kind of piece.”
“I’m vocal about how little I like tote bags, mostly because they end up being filled with junk and looking like a careless outfit add-on rather than intentional. Then I saw this super oversize yet structured and sculptural tote. I am obsessed with how big it is and the way it looks on the shoulder with a big, wool winter coat. Go ahead and call me a tote girl.”
“I’ve been on the lookout for a pair of slouchy khakis that can be worn low on the hips for what feels like forever. Then I saw these wide-leg trousers. I can already think of about a dozen ways that I would style them, including one that involves mimicking looks from Miu Miu’s S/S 22 runway show in September. Now, all I need is a cropped sweater-vest and a pair of loafers to go with them.”
