When it comes to shopping on the high street, COS has a reputation for quality pieces and tailoring. The brand aesthetic is very much a take on elevated basics that can be interchanged effortlessly. Hailed as a contemporary-style label, it has an emphasis is on long-wearing styles to withstand the test of time. Few high-street retailers do elevated basics like it does. It’s a one-stop shop for items to suit minimalists and maximalists alike this season, with equal selections of eclectic colourways and basic, uniform pieces in muted tones and clean-cut lines.
COS was one of the high-street brands I would achingly admire from the shop window as a teen, and it still lives up to its accolade over a decade later. The premium retailer has a more attainable calibre than many of its counterparts—a buffer between high-street names and higher-end designers.
The brand ethos is on timeless classics that transcend trends and remain pieces you’ll pull throughout the year. This season, the Scandi brand has produced designs akin to its usual ’90s-inspired silhouettes, albeit much more pigmented, with colour-blocking magenta, ochre and green reminiscent of botanical spring gardens. As standard, it offers detailed tailoring and elevated basics one could wear for occasions varying from informal dining to workwear.
COS has recently introduced some great styles to its arsenal. You’ll likely see balloon sleeves, sumptuous fabrics and oversized shapes, including formfitting pieces and cut-out dresses. You’ve most likely seen the hot-pink dress of the summer, but there are many other suitors. I’m particularly impressed with its trouser offerings. (Did you know they feature a concealed adjustable waistband?) Plus, there are many Tencel items, which is the material you should look out for if you’re wanting to shop more consciously.
Whether you’re hoping to introduce new items into your existing wardrobe or invest in something for a fancier occasion, these are the standout pieces the brand currently has on offer. Starting with outerwear, if you’re looking for a trench, then look no further than this classic with concealed buttons, as recommended by sustainability expert and fellow Who What Wear columnist Andrea Cheong. Keep scrolling to see my edit of the pieces I loved at COS.
Exceptional quality and finish.
I had a navy trench for years! This one looks like a keeper.
The composition is dreamy.
An olive-green trench is an update on a classic style.
A silk blazer for eveningwear.
If you’re looking for a style like The Row’s…
These trousers are 100% silk in a creamy caramel hue.
For casual days when you want a break from denim.
The perfect khaki trousers for all occasions.
Y2K but not too low.
A neon dream to reflect brighter days ahead.
Relaxed fit in a vibrant colour.
Inky blue is the very definition of dopamine dressing.
Want a break from dresses? This fluted neck with tailored trousers makes a great evening outfit.
A square neck always looks elegant.
I’ve seen many greens, and this one is so good.
I fell for this powdery cornflower blue.
For chillier spring nights.
Heels will balance out this flouncy style.
This looks great with gold accessories.
The attention to detail is stunning.
You can wear it open, belted or buttoned. This colour does all the talking.
This looks lovely with a black belt.
Add white trainers and raffia accessories.
Pull in the waist tie for exaggerated shaping.
So good it comes in two colourways.
The best jumper for all seasons.
A muted yellow is always welcome in the change of seasons.
Pop a crisp white shirt underneath.
Did somebody say Khaite? Elevated loungewear has reached new heights.
A welcome change from jeans. Tuck in a jumper, and wear it with ankles on show.
Add a tank and flip-flops on a sunny day.
Natural texture to break up a colour-block ensemble.
Reminiscent of vintage styles.
For some added detail.
Drop earrings make basics look fancy.
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