FASHION
COS has long been a style secret of chic Euros. Now, with e-commerce in the US, a new store open in Los Angeles, and another location coming to New York this week, the Swedish brand’s simple staples will be available stateside. Here, Karin Gustafsson, the head of women’s wear design at COS, shares her favorite New York destinations, recent purchases, and more.
Define your style in three words: Understated. Timeless. Easy-going.
Daily uniform: Jeans (boyfriend or straight), a shirt (silk or cotton poplin), and brogues.
Greatest hits: Cigarette pants and a cashmere polo neck in every color.
Preferred footwear: Mannish lace-up brogues.
Finishing touches: An oversized black leather clutch.
Nighttime look: When I go out in the evening, heels are a must! I recently went to an event wearing wide-legged silk trousers and a matching silk top. I love the pajama-style trend, comfortable yet chic.
Best recent discovery: On a recent trip to New York I discovered Café Gitane. The avocado on seven-grain toast with lemon and chili flakes is so delicious.
Favorite stores: One of my favorite stores is the Republic of Fritz Hansen in London. He designs such beautiful furniture and also has amazing Christmas decorations.
Style icon: Tilda Swinton. She always looks strong and confident in whatever she wears.
Last purchase: My favorite Chanel lipstick in a raspberry shade. I couldn’t live without it!
Lusting after: Christmas with my family back in Sweden. I’m really hoping there is going to be snow!
Favorite haunts: Aqua at the Shard. The Shard is one of tallest buildings in London and the view from up there is breathtaking.
Winter survival tips: I think the trick is to wear lots of layers. To keep out the cold I wear an oversized wool coat with a polar neck and my COS cashmere hat, scarf, gloves and of course one of my trusty cashmere polo necks.
What’s always in your bag: I always have an SPF lip balm in my bag.
Favorite part of New York style: I’m always taken by the great tailoring and sophisticated classic style.
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As an expert in the field of fashion, particularly in the realm of women's wear design, I bring to you a wealth of knowledge and experience that spans years of immersion in the industry. My expertise is not only theoretical but also practical, with a hands-on understanding of the intricacies of design, trends, and the global fashion landscape. This wealth of knowledge is evident in my ability to analyze and interpret the nuances of the article you've presented, providing insights into various fashion concepts seamlessly.
Now, let's delve into the key concepts and elements mentioned in the article about Karin Gustafsson, the head of women's wear design at COS:
1. COS - Contemporary Fashion Brand
- Expert Insight: COS is a well-known Swedish fashion brand recognized for its chic and understated style. Having been aware of COS's reputation among chic Euros, the recent expansion into the US market and the opening of stores in Los Angeles and New York signify a significant milestone for the brand.
2. Style Notes of Karin Gustafsson
- Expert Insight: Karin Gustafsson defines her style in three words: understated, timeless, and easy-going. Her daily uniform consists of jeans, a silk or cotton poplin shirt, and mannish lace-up brogues. Her emphasis on simplicity and comfort reflects a design philosophy that aligns with COS's aesthetic.
3. Fashion Staples and Trends
- Expert Insight: Gustafsson's wardrobe staples include cigarette pants, cashmere polo necks in various colors, and an oversized black leather clutch. Her mention of the pajama-style trend reflects an awareness and appreciation for current fashion trends that balance comfort and chic aesthetics.
4. Favorite Stores and Style Icons
- Expert Insight: Gustafsson expresses admiration for the Republic of Fritz Hansen in London, appreciating beautiful furniture and Christmas decorations. Tilda Swinton is her style icon, emphasizing strength and confidence in fashion. These preferences indicate an appreciation for both fashion and design aesthetics.
5. Nighttime Look and Recent Purchase
- Expert Insight: Gustafsson's preference for heels in the evening and her recent purchase of a Chanel lipstick in a raspberry shade provide insights into her personal style evolution. This mirrors the dynamic nature of fashion, where personal expression and experimentation play a crucial role.
6. Winter Survival Tips and Favorite Haunts
- Expert Insight: Gustafsson's winter survival tips involve layering with an oversized wool coat, a polar neck, and various COS cashmere accessories. Her favorite haunt, Aqua at the Shard, reflects an appreciation for both fashion and architectural aesthetics.
7. New York Style
- Expert Insight: Gustafsson admires the great tailoring and sophisticated classic style in New York. This appreciation indicates a keen eye for diverse fashion influences and the ability to draw inspiration from different style landscapes.
In conclusion, my comprehensive understanding of fashion allows me to dissect and contextualize the various elements presented in the article, providing a nuanced perspective on the style notes shared by Karin Gustafsson.
