This well-priced brand is owned by H&M, and to be frank, I didn’t pay a whole lot of attention to it until recently—I think because I was underwhelmed by a visit to their store when they first arrived in New York. The pieces seemed clunky, maybe a little pilgrim-ish, too-oversized and in general just like they were trying too hard. And honestly, sometimes clothes from Cos are still this way. But increasingly I’m finding a lot to like about their minimal-with-a-twist aesthetic: it doesn’t feel too trendy or fast fashion to me, but instead like it exists outside of the trend cycle, sort of like Margiela or Maria Cornejo. I also appreciate that instead of black, they offer a lot of key pieces in navy, because (even though I still wear a lot of black) I’m finding that navy is much kinder to my face. Among the desirable pieces that I found: this cute coverall, which reminds me of the one from No. 6 I just posted about a little while ago.
I dig the way the waistline slightly dips on this spiff wrap skirt.
Just a really good, roomy-enough-but-not-bulky everyday bag.
The overlapping pleats on this navy skirt are the type of detail Cos is good at lately: interesting, but not too interesting.
This reminds me so much of a particular Zero+Maria Cornejo dress, and looks like the portrait of easy elegance.
The shape of this A-line skirt is just stellar, and I like that the color is kind of unexpected.
These sandals are rather perfect in their simplicity.
Here is another piece that reminds me of Maria Cornejo: it’s slouchy and oversized but not overly so, and drapes really well. The kind of piece that works with a lot, and goes into high rotation quickly.
And finally, I just love that this shirt is seersucker: so (literally and figuratively) cool.
I found a COS store when we were in Rome last year. COS had an amazing sale going on and I purchased several dresses. They fit well and have bold colors. I really like the brand, and have continued to purchase items online.
I discovered COS when in Dubai several years ago, and when I’m in a major city I always look to see if there is a store. Love the aesthetic.
I like COS, and I’ve been shopping when in the UK for a couple of years before they opened the store in NYC. On line they tend to style stuff a little soviet tower block staff (in a good and bad way). And I think their clothes hold up well.
I bought a bunch of great pieces when I was in NY last year including those very comfortable sandals. But I find ordering online to be a disaster, sizing being completly off from piece to piece.
I’ve had terrific luck with COS dress sizing. I’m the same size, no matter the dress style.
Do you find them true to size or do you size up or down?
I have been shopping at COS for over 5 years. When I was overseas – I would look for their stores in European cities because I lived in the US and up until recently – there were no stores in the US. I think COS is a good store for basics. I buy smaller sizes to reduce the baggy quality of many of their garments.
I’m drawn to this brand but I’m 5’1″ with a 34 E bust. Should I even try?
When I saw ‘seersucker’ I got pretty excited!
I’m also 5’1″, 32 E. I bought two sweaters last fall which fit well and were exceptionally high quality for the price. But haven’t seen anything since that would work for me. You really have to pick and choose.
I think you’d have to try things on in a retail store–you might find some nice pieces if you like truly oversized tops by sizing up. But I think real-life trying on is the way for people who are large on top. (32DD here) The cuts of the tops are not a consistent aesthetic, so some of them will work and some not.
I agree, Mouse. I’m a skinny bitch, and can get lost in oversized clothes. But I’ve scored a few summer dresses and skirts from Cos in the last few years. I’m drawn to prints, stripes and plaids so their solids can feel like a palate cleanser. The UPS fairy delivered this dress last week
https://www.cosstores.com/en_usd/women/womenswear/knitwear/roll-neck-jumpers/product.high-neck-cashmere-jumper-yellow.0422095008.html
Love the panels, the length and pockets. It’s a gutsy, crisp cotton and looks grown-up but not dowdy. I got the navy but it comes in pale yellow too. I had a fun styling session, trying it with different waist and hip belts, cardigans, vests and jackets. It’s a keeper.
Last winter I bought this sweater, which is on sale now
https://www.cosstores.com/en_usd/women/womenswear/knitwear/roll-neck-jumpers/product.high-neck-cashmere-jumper-yellow.0422095008.html
It’s more of a chartreuse/lime than yellow – cozy, substantial and hasn’t pilled. I’ve never been disappointed in the quality of stuff I’ve gotten from Cos. Their pants tend not to be flattering on me, but “Nobody’s perfect,” to quote “Some Like it Hot.”
Woops! I screwed up the link to the dress. Here it is:
https://www.cosstores.com/en_usd/women/womenswear/dresses/product.panelled-sleeveless-dress-blue.0753125003.html
That’s a great dress.
Intriguing dress…….
I love COS and shop there often. But I find that you really have to try things on: the clothes just don’t fit predictably. That said, I think the quality is terrific, and I never have a problem finding things that not only work but are really flattering (and FWIW I am 5’2″ and 34E).
I’m full up on summer clothing, but I love the sandals and the bag! Each is just what I’ve been looking for. Thanks!
I’ve wanted this bag for a long time but it always struck me as just too expensive for an H&M company (particularly since the only item I bought there didn’t last long at all), but your post prompted me to check and….it’s on sale! And now it’s on the way to me!!
https://www.cosstores.com/en_usd/women/sale/accessories/product.folded-leather-tote-bag-black.0326073004.html
Love the DRESS! How awesome would that be as a travel dress for Europe in the summer (where I’m going in September)–works in the city, works at the beach, loose yet stylish and not sacky. May have to put that one in the cart…
I discovered Cos in London years ago before they came to NYC. Loved it then and found a few great pieces that I still wear, but liked it less so once they got there despite hotly anticipating its arrival. Thanks for showcasing some great, non trendy pieces!
The dress is very much a 1920s tennis outfit, but in navy. All that’s missing is canvas tennies. Yes, that’s why I like it.
I discovered a COS retail store this summer while working in LA. As you say, if you like slightly oversized basics with a twist at reasonable prices, you will be in heaven. I’m a 34DD and I found the cut of the tops of garments to be a little tight for me, but just sized up. So if you’re afraid of oversized, know that many of the cuts are subtle, not baggy. There’s real thought to shape.
I’m into that simple, monk-like existence that COS evokes. Your description, “exists outside of the trend cycle” is perfect, Kim. I think I do, too.
I like to look like a nun. Buttoned up and very severe.