Photo by StyleduMonde
Marking their return to the runway scene, COS unveiled their new Spring/Summer 2024 collection against the backdrop of the Corsie Sistine in Rome, Italy.
Home and hub of the artisans, designers, and creators obsessed with quality and style, Rome remains the epicenter of Italian high fashion, (or alta moda, the Italian equivalent to haute couture in French) and was an inspiration for the London-based brand for this season’s exploration of everyday, effortless luxury that revealed itself in detail, textures, and silhouettes.
It was an enthralling juxtaposition, making use of the historic Corsie Sistine’s 13,000 square feet to frame Karin Gustafsson’s latest line. Under the 15th century Umbrian Lazio frescos, interesting contrasts could also be seen on the runway: from billowing off-the-shoulder tops and wide-leg trousers that craft a voluminous, confident visual, to traditionally laid-back styles reinvented in mesh fabric that skim and cascade the body.
Airy, delicately layered fabrics and soft, sculptural lines were blended and shaped with tailored precision. Bold colors stood out against a backdrop of neutrals – steel blue, black, white, and sand.
While the Spring/Summer 2024 collection showcased the brand’s reinvention of classic silhouettes through materials, the Atelier capsule showcased innovation and technique. Statement looks include hand-pleated shoulder pads, fishtail skirts, and fluid maxi-lengths. Texture was enhanced and highlighted through material manipulation, hand-painted details, and slicing and tailoring methods, seen in knitwear, leather jackets, ballerinas, loafers, and trousers.
Media personality and activist Pamela Anderson, Back to Black’s Jack O’Connell, SHINee’s Minho Choi, and Narcos: Mexico’s Alberto Guerra, and Italian actress Valentina Bellè were among those in attendance. The event also had a Filipino as one of its guests with the celebrity stylist Liz Uy, who spoke to Vogue Philippines about the night.
What overall impression did you get from the COS Spring/Summer main and Atelier capsule collections?
They gave their COS signature-tailored classics, sculptural lines with some mix of soft, feminine unstructured silhouettes.
Which pieces stood out to you the most?
The red hood that flows with your body, it’s relaxed yet gives a strong statement. The ivory pleated dress was so beautiful. I love a versatile piece that I can use casually and can be used for big events as well, depending how you style it.
COS is about materials innovation, design experimentation, and sustainability. How did you see these in the collections shown this season?
This season, COS really experimented with light and color in translucent materials and fabrics. There were bold colors and classic neutrals, together they bring a new, dynamic life into soft and sculptural pieces. They’re made with the brand’s commitment to enduring design and uncompromising quality. Love how COS features sustainably sourced materials, like recycled materials and yarns certified by the Responsible Wool Standard.
What was the most memorable experience for you here and why?
I was able to run around Rome and saw most of the historic landmarks in one morning. The Colosseo, Pantheon, Fontana di Trevi, Piazza di Spagna, and a lot of churches. It was an absolutely amazing experience!
Watch the full show below.
