COS: Is The 'Atas' Version Of H&M Worth Buying? We Put Denim Jackets To The Test (2024)

Many things don’t live up to their price tags. Remember that whole fiasco about Kylie Jenner’s lip kits? ColourPop produces similar results for a fraction of the cost.

With that in mind, I wanted to see whether H&M’s more expensive cousin, COS, is worth the huge price bump or if it’s all just pure consumerism.

COS (Collection Of Style) is a subsidiary of the H&M group, focusing on minimalist style inspired by architecture, graphics and design. With an emphasis on modern clothing pieces that do not revolve around trends like other similar-priced labels, they’re designed to outlast seasons.

That being said, there’s a reason why there’s a saying, “COS prices start where H&M’s finish”– the clothes don’t come cheap.

In this article, we’ll be comparing denim jackets from both brands to see how they stack up against each other. Why denim jackets you ask? Shirts and T-Shirts would be a poor gauge since basics are generally cheaper for a reason.

Denim jackets require a little more craftsmanship and with denim being such a versatile fabric, the difference would be telling.

COS is first up and at first glance, you would not even be able to catch a whiff of H&M’s involvement. You’d be easily forgiven if you think they’re just another retailer from Europe.

The minimalistic interior is well-lit and has plenty of unobstructed space, creating a calming environment before you drop a pretty penny.

Everything is better in black and this denim jacket is no exception. From the stitching to the matte finished snaps, no inch of fabric is spared the dark treatment.

What I love about the jacket though is its boxier fit. Not only is it more relevant in our fashion landscape, it allows for layering. Throw it atop a hoodie or a mock neck piece,and you’ll get a variety of looks with the same jacket.

The deep front pockets and a muff sneakily hidden in plain sight complete the sleek outerwear.

It had impeccable stitchwork with no loose threads. Priced at S$175, it may be a little pricey but I was actually expecting it to cost more. You know you’re getting your money’s worth when you slide your arms into the sleeves.

Next up, it’s contender, H&M. The first words you’ll associate with H&M are ‘cheap’ and ‘accessible’. Having locations islandwide, you can get your retail therapy fix easily without burning a hole in your pocket.

The real problem with H&M is its jarring inconsistencies. You can own a piece that will last countless cycles in the wash whilst other pieces seemingly disintegrate after a single wash.

I figured I’ll give them a chance to change my mind through this article and picked out a denim jacket from their latest selection. Straight off the bat, I could feel the difference through the weight. Flimsy and unquestionably not worth the S$89.90 price tag, I tread onto the other aspects begrudgingly.

Aside from the cheapness, the jacket was decently made. Sure, there were loose threads in and around the jacket but the overall build was secure. There was a striking feature that I wasn’t too keen on and that was the stud buttons. They were loose and that causes an annoying jingle when you’re moving around.

The verdict is pretty clear here (at least in terms of denim jackets) – COS’s pieces are well worth the money. When it came down to it, H&M fell short in many aspects. You don’t expect to part ways with a sizeable amount of cash at H&M and when you actually do, you’d expect something better.

And I’ll let you in on this secret: COS holds regular sales that slash prices by 80%. I’ve even walked out of the store with a jacket that wasS$450and only paidS$150!

Check in-store regularly for the craziest come ups ever and you can thank me later.

COS (Collection Of Style):ION Orchard, Singapore, 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801 | Opening Hours: 10.30am – 9.30pm (Daily) | Website | Instagram