I have enough bags at home and I’m a minimalist at heart. Each bag I own is carefully chosen to fulfil a specific role. There is the large black leather tote I use for when I have a meeting and need to look chic (but also need to carry a laptop). A cream leather Simon Miller Bonsai bag that works for most weddings or events. My woven leather basket for day-to-day and my small Loewe Puzzle bag for everything else. I don’t need the Cos quilted bag. But I really, really want it.  

Cos staged its autumn/winter 2023 show at New York Fashion Week with Jodie Turner-Smith and Hari Nef on the front row and the bag on the runway. The outsized versions were clutched to the body and worn with chic grey tailoring, while the micro in turquoise was styled with a full tonal look of luxurious knitwear.  

I have long coveted the recycled polyester versions of the quilted bag while popping in store to pick up some fresh white T-shirts, but now the butter soft leather version has debuted for autumn/winter 2024 and I am entranced. I’ve also been spotting both versions out in the wild, which always makes me think of an item afresh. A friend was carrying the petit leather version on the front row at London Fashion Week, and while in Milan for the shows this week, I walked behind a group of three impeccably dressed friends, all carrying the same black polyester outsized version.  

Coming in three sizes – mini, micro and oversized – two different finishes and multiple hues, its ruched, quilted design makes it looks super tactile and squishy, despite its classic Cos clean lines. It is the perfect thing to elevate any look. Wear a micro version as a light-hearted finishing touch to a tailored suit with a crisp white shirt or as a modern alternative to the evening clutch. Then the outsized works with, well… anything really. It is just as perfect with a slouchy jumper dress and boots or a T-shirt and jeans as well as being roomy enough to hold all your essentials. 

I’ve really talked myself into this purchase, so I’m off to add to basket now. Happy shopping.  

Images: Cos