From us, to you: Forever gifts

It’s that time of year again to take part in one of life’s many pleasures: gift giving. Whether you’ve been paying attention to hints all year, or are in a last-minute dash, there are simple ways to ensure your gift remains memorable long after the festive season's over. 

From sustainably sourced jewellery with a story to tell, to innovative 3D-simulated knitwear — discover the COS team’s picks of gifts with (even) more to give, complete with style inspiration from junior fashion editor Meda Ntumba. 

FESTIVE KNITS, THE COS WAY 

Forget the garish festive jumpers of old. These knits will get you in the holiday mood, but with all the subtlety and sophistication that makes COS COS. Crafted with a soft wool blend, a modern fair isle pattern and playful details, they’ve been designed using an innovative 3D simulation process. ‘We worked closely with a specialist team who used our swatch, sketches and measurements to create a 3D model that allows us to look at textures and colours, and to make any changes quickly,’ explains design assistant Alex Horvath. ‘This is much more sustainable as it minimises the need for physical samples, using less resources — plus, the 3D team can send a virtual pack electronically straight to our suppliers, eliminating any transportation effects on the environment.’ The planet-friendly approach doesn’t stop there — the COS design team also developed the fair isle using existing stitches from old developments, as well as new ones created in-house by hand. The result? Each style has its own personality, whether your giftee (or you) prefer the bold, colourful design of the recycled wool-mix jumper or the soft neutral shades of the knitted wool-alpaca style, there’s something for everyone.  

HANDCRAFTED & RECYCLED JEWELLERY  

Jewellery has long been a popular choice during the festive season, and it’s easy to see why. It’s sentimental, a part of everyday style and can be passed down from generation to generation. Made with recycled sterling silver, COS’ new collection features 22-carat gold plated pieces sculpted into spontaneous shapes which make perfect forever gifts. ‘The longevity of these styles means that the customer will have something they can keep and cherish,’ says design assistant Rahel Pfrommer. ‘Any piece from this collection would make a unique gift that is durable, timeless and will last a lifetime.’  

Giving someone a gift with that layer of consciousness built in makes it extra special too explains COS head of sustainability and brand strategy, Francesca Lilley. ‘As consumers we want to find that balance between getting something we desire, but also considering the impact of those choices. Being able to invest in or receive a gift that is both beautiful and a more sustainable choice, just adds that extra layer of value and meaning.’ 

TRACEABLE CASHMERE 

Give with warmth this winter. Working towards a goal of 100% sustainable cashmere by 2022, COS has been working with The Good Cashmere Standard by The Aid by Trade Foundation (AbTF) – to source traceable, sustainably certified cashmere that cares for the well-being of cashmere goats, protects the environment and supports the herders that produce it. ‘Because cashmere is so loved by our customers, we want to be part of creating a solution, rather than stepping away,’ says Francesca. ‘These herds and nomadic people are relying on our income, and we’re committed to sourcing this scarce fibre in the most responsible way.’ With such high levels of quality and accountability in its production, a piece of COS cashmere really is the gift that gives back.