I think that by now many people have realised that I am quite the fan of the more minimalistic retail store COS (you can read posts about the brand here) and love going to their press days to see what will be coming up in the next season. I own quite a few pieces from the brand as well as their sister brand & Other Stories. I think it is the overall aesthetic and always interesting silhouette that draws me in and the general overall great tailoring that the brand is known for.
Something that I find very interesting about COS is who that they decide to collaborate with. They do not go for the top celebrity or blogger to collaborate with nor do they choose to pair up with a high fashion player. They seem to really think about who they want to pair with and how the two brand could intertwine with regards a collection that would benefit and also fit both brands. Some of the brands that they have worked with in the past include Hay and Studio Swine. Another thing that the brand do very well is being inspired by those in the art field – a great example would be their tribute to Agnes Martin (you can read about it here).
Today, I actually wanted to share with you a new collection and book that are launching this Friday. Usha Doshi is a Royal College of Art teacher and long-time COS collaborator and she has now disclosed her technique in her first book, “Creating with Shapes“. In addition, COS has created a limited 11 piece womenswear collection around this release using the book’s inventive techniques and methods.
The collection was conceptualised after Usha was watching her grandchildren play with pieces of fabric at home, the technique uses simple shapes to create intricate folds, drapes and pleats – a method used by COS in its own design process. Usha Doshi commented on the concept; “This exciting new technique is perfect for production without compromising creativity and the book will be a fantastic tool for both designers and garment makers.”
Karin Gustafsson, COS Creative Director said of the launch and collection, “We’re very excited to be supporting Usha with the publishing of her first book and to launch a limited edition collection that uses the methodology. This is a technique that we have supported and used in our design process time and time again, so it’s great to be able to share”.
The publication of the book with the accompanying collection is not something that I have seen done before. And to be honest I am excited to see the book when it launches. The collection will launch October 20 at COS Wicklow Street, Dublin and online.
Images kindly provided for use.
