COS Clothing Review

About COS

Sweden has brought us many greats, including IKEA, Spotify, and H&M. Since its launch in 1947, H&M’s popularity has skyrocketed and is the parent company of many brands like COS. The name stands for ‘Collection of Style’, serving looks and style for the contemporary person who is looking to invest in timeless pieces.  

COS Clothing is renowned for its timeless aesthetic, characterized by clean lines, simple silhouettes, and a focus on functional design. Their collections often feature neutral colors, natural materials, and a combination of classic and contemporary elements. This approach results in versatile and enduring pieces that can be easily incorporated into a variety of personal styles.

In addition to its emphasis on style, COS Clothing also places importance on sustainability and responsible practices. The brand is committed to minimizing its environmental impact by using sustainable materials, implementing ethical sourcing and production methods, and reducing waste throughout its operations.

COS Clothing aims to create garments that are made to last, promoting a more conscious and mindful approach to fashion consumption.

With stores located in major cities around the world and an online presence, COS Clothing has gained a loyal following of fashion-conscious individuals who appreciate their understated yet sophisticated designs. Their commitment to quality, minimalism, and sustainability has made them a go-to brand for those seeking contemporary and responsible fashion choices.

COS has also collaborated with several artists and art/design locations, including New York-based studio Snarkitecture, Seoul-based publisher The Book Society, photographer Nina Band, artist Michael Sailstorfer, Dutch designer Olivier van Herpt, and Belgian duo Fien Muller and Hannes van Severen. 

In this COS clothing review I will give you a look at the company policies and practices, along with product reviews, customer reviews, and fun facts and tidbits of information in order to help you decide whether the brand is worth your buy. 

Pros & Cons

Before we take you on a deep dive into the details, this COS clothing review will go over some initial benefits and drawbacks of the company: 

Pros

• Generous 30-day return policy
• International shipping
• Brick and mortar locations
• Clothing for men and women
• Good reviews about quality 
• Readily available information on site 
• Tons of collaborations and projects
• Student discount
• New subscriber discount 

Cons

• In-person retailers are limited 
• Pricey

Despite its pricey collection, can the brand live up to the hype? Even if you found a COS tie dye sweatshirt, it is done in such a way that you can wear it whenever. 

Now in this COS clothing review I will give you all the behind-the-scenes so you can get a real idea of what this brand stands for. 

Materials

COS Clothing uses a variety of materials in its garments, with a focus on quality, durability, and sustainability. While specific materials may vary depending on the collection and season, here are some common materials used by COS Clothing:

• Organic Cotton: COS Clothing incorporates organic cotton into its collections. Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, promoting healthier soil and waterways.
• Recycled Polyester: COS Clothing utilizes recycled polyester in some of its garments. Recycled polyester is made from post-consumer plastic bottles or other plastic waste, reducing the demand for new raw materials and diverting waste from landfills.
• Linen: Linen is a natural fiber derived from the flax plant. It is known for its breathability, lightweight feel, and durability. COS Clothing incorporates linen into its collections, often creating garments that are perfect for warm weather.
• Wool: COS Clothing features wool in some of its designs. Wool is a natural and renewable fiber that offers insulation, breathability, and excellent moisture-wicking properties. It is valued for its warmth and comfort.
• Tencel™ Lyocell: Tencel™ Lyocell is a sustainable fiber derived from wood pulp. It is known for its softness, breathability, and biodegradability. COS Clothing incorporates Tencel™ Lyocell into its collections, offering comfortable and eco-friendly options.
• Silk: Silk is a luxurious and natural fiber produced by silkworms. It is valued for its softness, lustrous appearance, and ability to regulate body temperature. COS Clothing occasionally features silk in its designs.
• Leather: While COS Clothing uses leather in some of its accessories, it aims to source leather responsibly, ensuring that it is obtained from suppliers who follow ethical and sustainable practices.

Features

COS Clothing offers a range of features that contribute to its appeal and popularity among fashion-conscious individuals. Here are some key features of COS Clothing:

• Minimalistic Design: COS Clothing is known for its clean lines, sleek silhouettes, and minimalist aesthetic. Their designs often focus on simplicity, understated elegance, and timeless style, creating garments that can be effortlessly incorporated into various wardrobes and personal styles.
• High-Quality Craftsmanship: COS Clothing places a strong emphasis on quality and craftsmanship. Their garments are carefully constructed using precise techniques and attention to detail, ensuring durability and longevity. The brand prioritizes creating pieces that are made to last, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
• Timeless Appeal: With its minimalist approach and classic design elements, COS Clothing offers pieces that transcend trends and seasons. The brand’s focus on timeless style allows customers to build a versatile and enduring wardrobe with garments that can be worn for years to come.
• Sustainable Practices: COS Clothing is committed to sustainability and responsible practices. The brand seeks to reduce its environmental impact by using sustainable materials, implementing ethical sourcing and production methods, and promoting longevity in fashion. They aim to create garments that are not only stylish but also considerate of the planet and its resources.
• Versatile Pieces: COS Clothing offers versatile garments that can be easily dressed up or down, making them suitable for various occasions and styling preferences. Their collections often feature versatile basics, layering pieces, and versatile accessories that can be mixed and matched to create different looks.
• Attention to Detail: COS Clothing pays meticulous attention to the details of their designs. From the selection of materials to the finishing touches, the brand ensures that every element is carefully considered, resulting in garments that exude quality and sophistication.
• Global Presence: COS Clothing has a strong global presence, with stores located in major cities worldwide. The brand’s accessibility, both through physical stores and online platforms, allows customers from different regions to experience and enjoy their fashion offerings.

These features collectively contribute to the appeal of COS Clothing, attracting individuals who appreciate minimalist design, quality craftsmanship, versatility, and a commitment to sustainability.

6 COS Bestsellers

COS Gathered Dress  

For those nights when you want to don something elegant for a walk down by the ocean, this COS Gathered Dress is the right outfit for you. 

Loose-fitting, this dress is as easy as the breeze that floats by you. The slightly bell sleeves with ruching at the elbows give you an elegant factor that’s understated. Made from organic cotton with a hint of elastane, you’ll have the ease of simplicity and pockets hidden in the seams at your fingertips.

Available only in white or dusty turquoise, the dress comes in US sizes XS to L. Wear this dress out when you want to feel comfortable and chic. This effortless outfit will live on in your wardrobe for a long time. 

The Gathered Dress retails for $99, currently on sale for $50.  

COS Linen Shirt Dress

Versatility at its best. When you want to throw something on in the mornings without much thought, the COS Linen Shirt Dress is the perfect item in your closet.

Dress it up or down, this outfit gives off the comfortable and chic look without even trying. Made from eco-friendly linen, the button-down design can be worn on its own or over trousers. And the hidden side pockets are always a delight for any dress. With its loose sleeves, you can pull off this uncomplicated look in seconds. 

The outfit comes in US sizes XS to L and is available in three colors: 

• Off-white
• Black
• Brown

The Linen Shirt Dress retails for $125, currently on sale for $63.

COS Maxi Pleated Dress

Chic. Elegant. Flattering. All of these terms can describe this Maxi Pleated Dress because it embodies everything a goddess would, and deserves, to wear. 

This maxi dress has gentle pleats that start from the rounded neckline, flowing over your body to give you a fashionable look without appearing like you’ve spent hours on it. Nobody has time for that! 

Made from recycled polyester, this dress can be worn with the cap sleeves down or thrown over your shoulders like a warrior goddess. The open slit in the back adds a hint of sexiness on top of the timeless look. 

The dress comes in US sizes 2 to 12, and is available in two colors:

• Navy (sold out)
• Light green

The Maxi Pleated Dress retails for $175, currently on sale for $88.  

COS Linen Vest  

There is something to be said about COS linen vests—they look so easy and comfortable to wear. This wardrobe staple is bound to be the basis of many of your minimal looks. 

Made entirely of linen, this permeable fabric will keep you cool and is easily paired with anything in the COS collection. The vest has a slightly sheer look to it so it can be layered with other items. With its tasteful neckline, you can dress it down or up, no matter where you go. 

The top comes in US sizes XS to L and is available in three colors: 

• White
• Black
• Navy marl

The COS Linen Vest retails for $25, currently on sale for $13. 

COS Ribbed Mock Neck Top

The classic top with an updated simple twist. The COS Ribbed Mock Neck Top is perfect for those chilly summer nights or layered under a thick jacket during those fall and winter months. Either way, you will look chic wearing it. 

Made entirely of cotton, the mock neck top has a thinly pleated look, giving you a leaner look with its close fit. The top can be paired with jeans for a casual look or a skirt for a more professional look. 

The top comes in US sizes XS/S or M/L, and is available in two colors: 

• Black
• Mole grey

The Ribbed Mock Neck Top retails for $49, currently on sale for $25. 

COS Leather Lace-Up Sneakers

These men’s sneakers will live on in your closet for years to come because the Leather Lace-Up Sneakers are a great way to carry you through the different seasons. 

These sleek and unfussy shoes with extra support around the ankle will keep you running from A to B, without breaking a sweat. Made entirely of leather, the lining is fully cushioned to ensure you can walk for miles. 

Available only in white, the sneakers come in US sizes:

• 7.5
• 8.5
• 9
• 10
• 10.5
• 11.5

The brand notes that the shoes do run a bit smaller so it is best to size up. 

The COS Leather Lace-Up Sneakers retail for $135. 

Who Is COS For? 

COS produces clothing for men, women, along with accessories for different occasions. This COS clothing review found the label puts an emphasis on being for anyone who prefers a minimal but stylish look. 

Alternatives

When it comes to fashion, there are several alternative brands that offer similar features and styles to COS Clothing. Here are some alternative brands that you may consider:

• Everlane: Everlane is known for its minimalist designs and focus on transparency and sustainability. They offer high-quality essentials with a modern and clean aesthetic.
• & Other Stories: & Other Stories offers a mix of contemporary fashion and timeless classics. The brand focuses on quality craftsmanship, diverse designs, and sustainable practices.
• Arket: Arket is a brand that combines timeless style with sustainability. They offer well-made, durable pieces with a focus on natural and recycled materials.
• Muji: Muji is recognized for its minimalistic and functional designs. They offer a wide range of clothing, accessories, and home goods with a focus on simplicity and quality.
• Uniqlo: Uniqlo is known for its affordable and versatile basics. They offer a wide variety of clothing for men, women, and children, with a focus on quality, functionality, and comfort.
• COS Essentials: COS Essentials is the lower-priced line by COS Clothing. It offers a selection of basics and wardrobe essentials at a more accessible price point while maintaining the brand’s minimalist design aesthetic.

These alternative brands share some similarities with COS Clothing, including minimalist designs, quality craftsmanship, and a focus on sustainability. Exploring these brands can provide you with a range of options that align with your style preferences and values.

Comparison: COS vs. OAK+FORT 

Now that you have an idea of what the brand offers, this COS clothing review will take a look at one of their competitors: OAK+FORT. 

Founded in 2010 by husband and wife team, Arjuna Thiagarajah and Min Kang, the brand started as an online store only in Edmonton before quickly gaining admirers. Today, the brand has expanded, with many customers loving their contemporary and sleek designs for men, women, jewelry, housewares, and beauty. 

Though OAK+FORT is still growing, they clearly do not have the amount of in-person retailers that COS has. Both companies are big on sustainability, with OAK+FORT using recycled fabric and eco-friendly viscose in their clothing. 

In terms of pricing, the OAK+FORT Midi Slip Dress is made entirely from polyester and retails for $68, while the COS Jersey Midi Slip Dress is composed of organic cotton and sells for $99, currently on sale for $50. 

There may be exceptions, but it seems as though COS is the pricier option. If you are still curious about what OAK+FORT offers, then check out our full OAK+FORT Clothing Review.

COS Reviews: What Do Customers Think?

In this section of the COS clothing review, we will go behind-the-scenes and show you what their customers really think. 

On Trustpilot, Faxon writes, “I am an older woman who enjoys dressing well/ fashionably in quality clothes that last, so I avoid fast-fashion. At this point I can’t speak to the longevity of the clothes, but at first glance they are much better quality and fit than Zara and other fast fashion I bought and immediately returned.”

And Imogen T. agrees, stating, “Great quality and good sales. Love all the clothes I have got from cos, timeless design and they wear very well.”

A positive review on Reviews.io remarks, “Purchased a gorgeous tote bag for hols – can use as beach bag or clutch. Fast delivery. Very happy.” Along with, ”Perfect for a gift for my mother, lovely collection and they tastefully wrap the items in tissue paper to give a luxurious feel to the gift.” 

Even Gareth L. on Sitejabber is happy with what he purchased, commenting, “It’s basically the best combination of quality and value you can get these days. The clothes are great and the prices are reasonable. Delivery could be faster…” 

Is COS Worth It?

COS is pricey, but their products are high quality. Their shipping and return policies are fair and generous, and their brand is ethical and aiming to get better year-by-year. Their clothes look cool, contemporary, and high-fashion, and they are priced reasonably for how they appear. Plus these are all staples that will last you beyond the current season. 

COS Promotions & Discounts 

This COS clothing review found the brand offers two ways to save:

1. The first is through new subscribership where if you register, you can get 15% off of your first order.
2. The second is through a student discount, which you can claim by doing the following:

1. Register on the COS Student Beans website. 
2. Verify your student card to get your discount code.
3. Check out the online shop.
4. Enter your discount code at checkout for 10% off.

Otherwise, you can find great deals in the COS sale section for both men and women under their respective dropdown menus. 

Where to Buy COS

COS products are sold on their website and their retail locations, which can be found in several countries across the globe. You can locate a store near you using their store locator tool. To use it, input the country you are shopping in and watch for the little icons on the map. Click on one of them to get the exact address information. 

FAQ

Where is COS shipped from? 

The company’s Tilburg warehouse (in the Netherlands) handles their shipping. Different locations can be found on the drop-down list in the top right-hand corner of their web page where you can specify your country. 

Where is COS made? 

Due to COS’ ethical code, they work with 60 different manufacturers throughout Europe and Asia, all of whom have to abide by the brand’s procedures.

Is COS High-End? 

COS is a brand that focuses on quality, unlike its sister brand H&M. Though it is clearly not a luxury designer brand, it is pricier than other labels you may be familiar with. 

The only high-end aspect about the brand would be in the quality they put into their products. 

Is COS An Ethical Brand? 

This COS clothing review found the brand does its best to find and use resources that have less of an impact on the world, which is admirable. Their goal is to be 100% sourced from environmentally-friendly and recycled materials and they are slowly, but surely, reaching it with about 86% of their items originating from sustainable resources.  

Do COS clothes come up small? 

COS clothing runs true to size, and there are several clothing options that have a looser fit, but are still very stylish. If you want specific information on sizing, check their size guide here. 

What is COS’ Shipping Policy?

To get specific information about shipments for each country, change the country to match your current location at the top right of the web page. This is the shipping information for the US: 

• Standard Delivery: $6 / Free over $140 (1-6 business days)
• Express Delivery: $20 (1-2 business days)

They can deliver to all US states, with the exception of P.O. boxes, army/fleet/diplomatic post offices, or US Territories.

What is COS’ Return Policy?

COS gives you up to a 30-day window from your order date to return the item for a full refund. As with many brands, the items you’re returning have to be in their original condition. Any items that deal with personal hygiene (i.e. pierced jewelry or underwear) cannot be returned. Swimwear and bodysuits have to have their sanitary strip in place. 

Final sale items cannot be returned. 

How to Contact COS

There are a few ways to contact COS:

• Live chat on their website
• Phone: 1-855-842-1818
• Facebook Messenger

Their hours of operation are from Monday to Sunday, between 9 am to 10 pm EST. 

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Want more options for women’s clothing? Check out these brands below:

Universal Standard

Something Navy

Tradlands Clothing

AMI Clubwear