Everyone Has Fallen for This Anti-Trend, Designer-Passing High-Street Bag

Once in a while, an item comes along that quickly outpaces all others in desirability, and whether it's a high-street find or a designer piece, it subsequently becomes harder to track down than a Birkin. Fashion people sit with laptops and phones poised, refreshing the same tabs, waiting for those three little words: "back in stock."

To become this coveted is rare and calls for a unique combination of excellent design, elevated quality and enduring style that come together in perfect proportion to tip that piece from wanted to avidly hunted. The COS Studio Bowling Bag (£225) is the latest piece to boast this status.

COS Studio Bowling Bag

(Image credit: COS)

In recent years, fashion has seen a distinct shift towards timeless, understated and wearable designs, and this bag embraces all three elements. COS takes silhouette inspiration from the bowling bag; a sleek half-moon shape that boasts copious space whilst maintaining a refined appeal. However, unlike a classic bowling bag, this one doesn't gape from end to end when opened but has leather panels concealed on each side, making it much more practical and secure. Its popularity might also have something to do with the fact that the bag bears more than a passing resemblance to a certainvery expensive—designer buy.

COS Studio Bowling Bag

(Image credit: COS)

Whilst structured in design, there's an ease to this bag that makes it slightly softer and more malleable than other similar styles. This relaxed feel lends itself well to everyday use, perfect to accompany you from office commutes to weekends away.

COS Studio Bowling Bag

(Image credit: COS)

Every feature of the bag is understated; a simple clip closure, no logos and unfussy stitching details on the bottom corners all add to the premium appeal. Truly, if you didn't know, you'd be hard-pressed to guess this was a bag from a high-street brand.

Currently, it's offered in smooth black leather or brown suede, both of which have an enduring, timeless appeal that makes either a smart addition to any handbag collection. The first release has sold out, but if you're as enamoured as we are, sign up for restock updates, and I'll also let you know as soon as it's back in stock.

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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 joined Who What Wear 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.