COS' Cinch-Waist Cardigan Looks Designer—I'm Now Obsessed With Owning It

Looking at fashion over the past few years, oversized silhouettes have reigned supreme. From blazers to wide-leg trousers and even the large tote bag revival, bigger has been better for a while now. But as ever, brands and fashion insiders continue to look ahead to freshly revived silhouettes that will make their mark on the landscape, and right now, nipped-waist styles are everywhere. It started earlier this month with cinched-waist blazers—undeniably elegant in creating an hourglass silhouette—then, during a recent scroll through the new-in section of one of our favourite high-street stores, I came across an incredibly wearable cardigan interpretation that can glide easily into our autumn wardrobes. Enter the COS Waisted Knitted Cardigan.

COS Knitted Waisted Cardigan

(Image credit: @florriealexander)

I’ll admit that a cardigan is never going to be groundbreaking. But if there’s one brand that could come close to making it so, it’s COS. The high-street hero understands that simplicity can have as much impact as maximalism when done well, and everything about this cardigan feels incredibly thoughtful. First, the collarless style keeps it in line with the classics, whilst the fitted body leans into the fresh silhouette that has taken hold for 2024. To create balance, the cardigan features oversized raglan sleeves that further accentuate the nipped-waist effect.

Finally, the cuffed wrists ensure that the billowing sleeves don’t overpower the refined cut, reaching halfway up the wrist to add an extra flair of refinement. From every angle, this cardigan exudes the kind of elegance that is hard to believe comes from the high street—in fact, almost every other waisted cardigan I've found this season has a designer label. Whether paired with a maxi skirt or tailored trousers or layered over a slip dress, this understated knit is set to take even the simplest of looks to new heights.

Keep scrolling to shop the COS cardigan I'm in love with and explore more cinch-waist styles.

SHOP COS' WAISTED KNITTED CARDIGAN:

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Florrie Alexander
Acting Affiliates Editor

Florrie embarked on her fashion journey while studying French and History at university. Whilst studying in Aix-en-Provence, she began to write her dissertation on the history of fashion and the influence of Haute Couture, and landed her first role at Harper’s Bazaar. Following this, she interned for various publications including Elle, Grazia and Marie Claire before joining the fashion team at Conde Nast Traveller. There, she contributed to international photoshoots, styled pages and covers, and produced engaging digital content.

During a freelance period, Florrie honed her skills in editorial work in various digital and print publications including Vogue Italy and Departures magazine, as well as styling e-commerce photoshoots and personal shopping. Florrie actively pursues an in-depth understanding of fashion and jewellery, and after styling a jewellery cover shoot at Conde Nast Traveller chose to complete the De Beers Diamond Foundation course. Florrie first joinedBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK as a freelancer before becoming the Commerce Writer, blending both editorial and commercial content. Now, as the Acting Affiliates Editor, she monitors current trends, new-in styles, wardrobe heroes and how best to style them. In her downtime, Florrie can be found in her hometown of London, usually with a coffee in hand.