The minimalist designs that occupy the shelves at COS are ridiculously stylish, incredibly reliable and surprisingly affordable – and that's just a fact. In the many years that the high street retailer has been around, I've been tempted by plenty of the brand's elevated basics. I spent early spring waxing lyrical about the barrel-leg trousers that replaced my daily jeans, and we've collectively pined over its tank top midi dress here at Grazia HQ for two summers running. But ask us if any design has captured our attention this summer quite like its Gathered Midi Dress? Honestly, the answer is no.
Fans of COS are well aware of the Swedish retailer's knack for transforming seemingly plain basics into standout sartorial classics thanks to a combination of high-quality fabrics and considered details. At first glance, the midi dress might look like just another summer dress – and there's nothing wrong with that. But take a closer look, and you'll quickly realise the brand's brilliance in design is clear.
Shop: COS' Gathered Midi Dress
www.cos.com
The fitted bodice and flared skirt make for a flattering and easy-to-wear midi that'll see you through holidays, alfresco brunches and even dressier garden parties with ease.
The dress is a flowing midi length that skims the calf (or, if you're a petite dresser, just above the ankle) and is crafted from lightweight Pima cotton blend, which is softer and less prone to creasing than your regular cotton frocks. Across the bodice, you'll find panels of ruching alongside 90s-inspired slender spaghetti straps that tie at the back to allow for a tailored fit. While the fit-and-flare silhouette is universally flattering, the relaxed fit is easy to wear when the weather apps flash 30°.
This season, the fashion set has been favouring the simple black iteration for a summer take on LBDs (in this case, a long black dress). However, as is often the case with influencer favourite clothing, the black dress is now sold out in most sizes. Happily, COS's bright red variation is just as chic and makes for an easy dopamine-boosting addition to any summer closet. Alternatively, if your MO this summer is all about prints, the dress is also available in a trendy chocolate brown striped design.
As warm weather staples go, the gathered cotton midi dress is firmly in the 'wear-everyday' camp. As simple as throwing it on with sandals and sunglasses for your sweaty commute, the midi will also work well under a lightweight knit to keep you cosy under the office air con. Styled well with kitten heels and statement earrings, the dress can also be an elevated companion for dinners and garden parties.
Shop: Other Colours Of COS' Gathered Midi Dress
www.cos.com
Slip into this cotton midi for balmy July evenings, whether styled with strappy boho sandals or comfortable trainers. The stripes elongate the silhouette, while the relaxed fit will keep you breezy when the temperatures rise.
www.cos.com
While the sleeveless black midi is mostly out of stock, you can still get the gathered bodice with this open-back dress finished with billowy short sleeves. Add a pair of sleek loafers and you've got a standout office look for the summer.
www.cos.com
If dresses aren't quite your style, opt instead for this gathered cotton top, which features a similarly ruched bodice with a peplum-inspired hem. Perfect for wearing with white maxi skirts and your trusty blue jeans.
Main image credits: ©Instagram/@missy_elz
Hitanshi Kamdar is a senior commerce writer for Grazia. Hitanshi is always on the hunt for the latest trends, emerging designers and the internet’s most bizarre style discourse. When not writing, she can be found IDing outfits during Netflix binges and shopping for the latest It-girl shoe trends.