Enamel and silver square braclets (GBP12 each) I wish I'd purchased.
Again, a skirt I wish I'd added to my collection last season. Crochet with a plastic feel (GBP49).
A great take on the Burberry zip-at-the-waist winter coat (GBP150).
James Bond cool. Men's blazer (GBP175).
Dress with oversized bow (GBP99).
Hipster cool. Ankle length chinos (GBP79).
In my opinion, COS (Collection of Style) is the best high street label in the UK. Only young, it opened in 2007 with the first store on Regent St London, still the flagship. I'm enamoured by its consistent design aesthetic, creating beautifully simple pieces, wearable day and night. The brands clean cut design doesn't stop there, incorporating the look into the store interior (simplicity at its best, by interior architect William Russell). And this is what the recession has brought...a minimalist trend. They say, the brand is 'for women and men who want high fashion with good quality, at an affordable price'. COS begins where H&M (it's parent company, based in Sweden) ends. Taking pride in fair trading, 80% is manufactured in Europe and 20% Asia. When I interviewed with Yasmin Sewell, she was also a big fan, as is purse-friendly blogger of Wearing it today,
Laura Fantacci. Visit http://www.cosstores.com/
Hello Sass & Bide LFW SS11! Combining the minimalism trend for AW10 seen at the likes of Chloe, Celine and Stella McCartney, with SS11's splash of prints shown on the catwalks of Marc Jacobs, Christopher Kane and Rodarte. It's also a slight nod (with an Australian flavour) to the lady-like prim ensembles we've seen at Prada and Miu Miu. But enough name dropping...just look at this collection. At first I thought hmmm, it's a bit 'this' season, not very fashion forward or inventive (which I love S&B for) but looking at the detail, they've chosen a great colour palette, the prints are unique, shapes fluid and everything is just so wearable but with a twist. I NEED the jacket with a scarf like insert (I could see a collaboration with Dion Lee would suit here) and love the styling of the bushy neck pieces. Shame London's about to get cold, but Australian's in Spring can be inspired instantly...and put your name on the waiting list for next year! Bravo Sass & Bide!
