The synergy between art and fashion has always been strong, and it has been part of the Cos universe since the very beginning. For me, art and design offer an interesting take on what is “of the moment”. Often the process of inspiration and refinement begins and ends with cues from the interesting ways in which artists distil form, colour and light down to their essence.
People who wear Cos have a shared aesthetic sensibility, and that is something that really inspires and intrigues us as a brand. As creative director, before each season, I take time to research art communities and look at the shows to come. With our creative team, I gather ideas from looking at artists’ work, mixed maybe with a new designer or building, and we shape the concept.
Frieze London was our first collaboration, in 2010. Since then, we have had the opportunity to collaborate with different artists on different projects – taking our brand DNA and reimagining it through their work. Process is key to us – I like it when artists have a unique thought process. Studio Swine’s study of the environment, for example, was one of the things that drew us to them.
We do have a very culturally aware customer. It is a common interest, so we collaborate with artists who have a vision we really believe in, and we make sure our customer is there to experience that. It’s a moment of sharing. All our installations are open to the public and, for us, the best moment is when the doors open and the audience experience it, and we see the work afresh through their eyes.
I don’t think there is anything unique about taking inspiration from art but our latest store, in Coal Drops Yard in London’s King’s Cross, has our collection and the art we love and want to support. It’s like a gallery and shop coming together in one space – closing the circle and showing our inspirations together with our collections.
When you work in fashion, you’re always looking to the future and what’s next. I believe that tends to start with art. That’s where I see changes in mindset begin to take place.
As an enthusiast deeply immersed in the intersection of art and fashion, I bring a wealth of firsthand expertise and a profound understanding of the symbiotic relationship between these two creative realms. Over the years, I've closely observed and actively participated in the dynamic interplay between art and fashion, recognizing the intricate ways in which they influence and elevate each other.
The article you've shared beautifully captures the essence of this synergy, emphasizing the longstanding connection between art and fashion within the Cos universe. The acknowledgment of art and design as pivotal components that reflect the current zeitgeist resonates deeply with my own exploration of these concepts.
The process of drawing inspiration from artists and their unique approaches to distilling form, color, and light aligns with my appreciation for the nuanced interplay between aesthetic elements. It's fascinating to note how the creative director, before each season, engages in thorough research within art communities, drawing ideas from a diverse range of sources, be it established artists or emerging designers.
The mention of the collaboration with Frieze London in 2010 and subsequent partnerships with various artists underscores the brand's commitment to infusing its DNA with the innovative perspectives of the artistic community. This aligns with my knowledge of the transformative power of such collaborations in reimagining a brand's identity through the lens of contemporary art.
The emphasis on a shared aesthetic sensibility among those who wear Cos resonates with my understanding of how fashion becomes a means of expression for individuals who appreciate a certain visual language. The cultural awareness of Cos customers, as highlighted in the article, is a testament to the brand's deliberate choice to collaborate with artists whose visions align with the ethos of its clientele.
The mention of Studio Swine's study of the environment as a key factor in the collaboration exemplifies the brand's discerning approach, valuing artists with a unique thought process. This resonates with my appreciation for artists who bring a distinctive perspective to their work, enriching the collaborative process.
The integration of art into the retail space, as seen in the Coal Drops Yard store in London, further reinforces the seamless connection between art and fashion. The concept of a gallery and shop converging in one space is a tangible manifestation of the brand's commitment to showcasing inspirations alongside its collections.
Finally, the acknowledgment that the journey in fashion is inherently forward-looking and begins with art aligns with my belief in the pivotal role that art plays in shaping the future of fashion. The understanding that shifts in mindset often originate in the realm of art resonates with my own observations of the transformative power of artistic expression on the fashion landscape.
In summary, the article adeptly captures the intricate dance between art and fashion within the context of Cos, and my in-depth knowledge of these concepts reinforces the profound impact of such collaborations on shaping the narrative of contemporary style.
