After their early experiments with maximalism, designers Stephanie Danan and Justin Kern have settled into a comfortable, minimalist groove. Their new pre-fall collection was a continuation of that pared-back aesthetic, defined by a muted palette of black, white, rust, and khaki green.
Monastic silhouettes have been an ongoing theme at Co, with satin slips and crisp shirtdresses blown up big and worn under tunics and cozy knits. This season Danan and Kern added all-enveloping shawl scarves with cozy pockets to their roster, a clever spin on the idea of transitional layering. Tailoring has been in the spotlight at the brand lately too; the duo’s new suits came with subtle revisions, belted at the waist or buttoned up the leg. One brown leather trench coat was cut along the same slim-fitting line and had a retro elegance that felt right for now.
Co recently launched an e-commerce platform for its essentials line, which it is piloting with a new membership scheme. The program is showing early signs of success: Currently, 80% of shoppers on the site have signed up for the annual $100 fee, which entitles members to special offers and discounts. In a moment when more independent brands than ever are competing in the direct-to-consumer space, it’s a smart move.
