Today, COS has become synonymous with its famed quilted bags.
In mid-2023, the brand's oversized quilted bags took social media by storm. Arguably, the buzz began when K-pop superstar Jennie Kim of BLACKPINK shared a quick snap while carrying the bag in its off-white colorway. Later on, the internet gave the viral crossbody a moniker: the “cloud bag.” And before we knew it, the quilted bags—available in a variety of colors and sizes—were flying off the shelves in COS stores worldwide. Almost a year since its explosion on the internet, the trendy carryall continues to be a popular pick among fashion folk, both locally and abroad.
But for fashion insiders, beyond the well-loved quilted bags, COS offers a range of everyday wear that features classic tailored cuts. Their pieces embody a timeless and sophisticated aesthetic, characterized by meticulous attention to clean lines, quality fabrics, and forward-looking yet familiar silhouettes.
Below, read on to discover COS' brand history, design ethos, and some of the most noteworthy pieces from their vast selection of apparel.
What is COS?
COS, short for “Collection of Style,” is a Swedish fashion brand under the H&M Group. Their design ethos anchors on a mission to counter the fleeting nature of fast fashion, which is achieved by championing sustainable craftsmanship and embracing minimalist (yet geometric) silhouettes, natural textiles, and subdued color palettes.
Founded by H&M chairman Karl-Johan Persson, COS offers mid-ranged men’s and women’s ready-to-wear pieces. From essential basics to statement pieces, COS provides a wide range of apparel, including shirts, dresses, trousers, outerwear, shoes, bags, and more. Form and function come together in each item, effectively embodying the brand's commitment to a sustainable and enduring style.
COS’ Beginnings and Expanding Global Presence
COS first launched in 2007 with a runway show at London’s Royal Academy of Arts. In the same year, COS opened its first physical store along Regent Street, a major shopping street home to numerous flagship stores and renowned fashion boutiques in the British capital’s West End.
In 2011, COS began its online retail operations to expand its global reach. By December 2014, the London-based Swedish brand arrived in the United States by opening its flagship store in Manhattan, New York.
In June 2021, fourteen years after the brand’s inception, COS finally opened its doors to its Filipino clientele, after finally setting up shop at SM Aura in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig.
Based on the H&M Group’s 2022 year-end report, COS has grown to 259 physical stores across 47 countries, with online shops available in over 38 countries.
Must-Have Pieces from COS
COS' designs elevate the concept of wardrobe basics, offering a sophisticated and modern approach to everyday dressing. Their collection includes impeccably tailored blazers, versatile knitwear, and other standout pieces that can seamlessly enhance any wardrobe. With their focus on quality and timeless style, COS pieces are sure to become go-to favorites for fashion-conscious individuals who are constantly on the move.
So, if you're planning a visit to a COS store soon, here are some chic and understated pieces that will surely elevate your everyday wardrobe:
Open-back shirred balloon mini dress
Business in front, party at the back! This mini dress can seamlessly go from day to night. Just switch up your jewelry and footwear, the styling possibilities with this piece are endless!
Open-back shirred balloon mini dress, $175 USD (approximately P9,737.44), COS, cos.com
Scarf-detail cutout blouse
For something effortless yet chic, consider this toffee-brown blouse made from a fluid viscose blend that drapes beautifully. Pair it with tailored trousers for a sophisticated look, or style it with denim for a more relaxed yet dressed-up vibe.
Scarf-detail cutout blouse, $135 USD (approximately P8,068.16), COS, cos.com
Trompe-l’œil midi skirt
Don’t get bamboozled: those are not pleats. Fresh from their recent Spring/Summer 2024, the COS design team worked with “elevated printing techniques” to create the illusion of an olive green pleated skirt on viscose fabric. Style it with a black or white top, this “optical illusion” skirt is definitely a conversation started.
Trompe-l’œil midi skirt , $175 USD (approximately P9,740.76), COS, cos.com
Power-shoulder wool-herringbone jacket
Want to add some character to your wardrobe? This oversized cropped jacket is a great piece to add to your rotation. Aptly called the “power-shoulder” jacket, it features structured shoulder pads that create a strong, confident silhouette.
Power-shoulder wool-herringbone jacket, $250 USD (approximately P13,915.38), COS, cos.com
Flared wool trousers
The office siren trend is in, and these ultra-chic flared trousers are perfect for achieving that polished yet sexy look. Crafted from a high-quality wool blend, this piece offers a flattering fit around the thighs that elegantly flares around the legs.
Flared wool trousers, $190 USD (approximately P10,575.69), COS, cos.com
Filipino Celebrities Wearing COS
Heart Evangelista
Liz Uy
Jasmine Curtis-Smith
David Guison
Leila Alcasid
Tricia Gosingtian
Where to Buy COS in the Philippines
The country's COS flagship boutique is located at SM Aura Premier and is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. You can also shop their latest COS Spring/Summer 2024 collection online via cos.com and Zalora.
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