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    Trust me, these 8 COS bags will NEVER go out of style

    No need to spend a fortune to look chic

    Penny Goldstone's avatar
    By Penny Goldstone
    Published 22 January 2025 In Features

    When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

    COS handbags
    (Image credit: COS)
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    I've long been a fan of high-street label COS' elevated everyday essentials. From cosy knitwear to stylish coats and timeless tailoring, there's practically nothing I wouldn't buy in the COS new in section.

    Their latest launch, the Alcove bag, is no exception. I would go as far as to say that it is the perfect embodiment of a designer handbag, without the price tag.

    Its silhouette is clean yet sculptural, thanks to a elegantly folded centre which gives the style its name.

    It's practical too, with a spacious central compartment that also features a detachable zip-up pouch for when you're on the go. Available in two sizes, a large as well as smaller size that also fits in a surprising amount, it's a clear icon in the making.

    My vote goes to the butter-soft suede style in chocolate, although you can also get it in moss green and a classic black leather too.

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    Retailing at just £225 for the big version, it's proof if proof were needed that you don't have to spend a fortune to own an expensive-looking bag (although if you do want to splurge, check out our top investment handbags of 2025 here).

    I've been the proud owner of a couple of COS handbags for a few years - the banana bag and the quilted bag below - and can attest to their versatility and durability. They are not purchases I regret making.

    Marie Claire Newsletter

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    If you're a timeless COS bag yourself, here are some other styles I guarantee will remain timeless and will go with everything you own.

    Shop COS bags

    Alcove Tote - Suede

    COS Alcove Tote
    £225 AT COS

    Taking its name from the chic centrefold of the design, the Alcove is big enough to fit a small laptop. Your ideal everyday companion.

    Tome Mini Crossbody - Leather

    COS Tome Mini Crossbody
    £115 AT COS

    The perfect evening bag.

    Cavatelli Clutch - Leather

    COS Cavatelli Clutch
    £135 AT COS

    This clutch comes in other colourways - including black and brown - as well as a smaller size, but I love how much you can fit into this one.

    Quilted Mini Tote

    COS Quilted Mini Tote
    £45 AT COS

    It's hard to argue with the price tag on this one. I own it in black and I love it for my more casual days.

    Eastside Mini Bowling Bag - Leather

    COS Eastside Mini Bowling Bag
    £95 AT COS

    Named for its elongated east-west shape, this mini bowling bag ticks off one of this season's major bag trends.

    Serif Tote - Suede

    COS Serif Tote
    £200 AT COS

    Another timeless tote, the Serif features cleaner lines than the Alcove, if that's what you prefer.

    Tome Mini Crossbody - Suede

    COS Tome Mini Crossbody
    £115 AT COS

    This mini crossbody comes in a dusty pink shade that will be ideal come Spring.

    Studio Bowling Bag - Leather

    COS Studio Bowling Bag
    £225 AT COS

    Bowling bags are everywhere at the moment, and I can't see them going away any time soon. If you want to jump on the bandwagon, this bag is the way to do it.

    Penny Goldstone
    Penny Goldstone
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    Contributing Fashion Editor

    Penny Goldstone is the Contributing Fashion Editor at Marie Claire UK. She writes about catwalk trends and the latest high street and Instagram sartorial must-haves. She also helms the Women Who Win franchise.

    She has worked in fashion for over 10 years, contributing to publications such as Cosmopolitan, Red, Good Housekeeping, and Stylist.

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