Modern Alchemy
Review of COS Fall 2023 Fashion Show
By Mario Abad
THE COLLECTION
THE VIBE
THE THEME
There was a strong emphasis on tailoring, outerwear, and knits for men and women with the occasional printed overcoat and asymmetrical scarf top. The neutrals were offset by power blue and royal blue colorways.
THE BUZZWORDS
Functional. Contemporary. Versatile.
THE SHOWSTOPPER
Look #36
This all-black ensemble made a statement thanks to the clusters of black fringe affixed all over the elegant topcoat and the hooded top underneath.
THE DIRECTION
THE QUOTE
We looked at a lot of photographs of nature and one of our team members took photos of birds so that was a starting point and from there we went into these sort of animal look-alike artworks. For women, we worked a lot with deconstruction to create a more confident mood and for men’s we wanted to go a little bit more soft.
THE WRAP UP
The collection took the foundational elements of the COS wardrobe and gave it an elevated sense of ease that was apparent by the monochromatic sets, tonal lurex, and fluid double-breasted suits. While the setting (a view of the Hudson River) was pleasant and refreshing, one came out of the show wondering if lookbooks would suffice for this commercial brand. Some stronger and more directional looks would be welcome on the runway going forward.
