CO's latest collection for Pre-Fall 2026, spearheaded by its co-founder Stephanie Danan, captures a unique blend of American and French fashion influences. Having relocated to Paris, Danan's perspective on dressing has evolved, leading to a collection that embodies an 'extreme duality' – a reflection of her bicultural identity. Her design philosophy centers on achieving a harmonious balance of distinctiveness, comfort, and an effortless charm, all while maintaining individuality in style.
This season, the collection artfully combines two primary fashion currents: generous volume and the timeless Parisian appreciation for masculine-feminine styles. The voluminous aspect is evident in designs such as relaxed cargo pants paired with airy shirts, boiler suits featuring prominent shoulders and low waists, and generously cut suits. Additionally, spacious leather bomber jackets align with the emerging trend of clothing serving as a protective 'carapace' during uncertain times. Conversely, the more feminine elements are expressed through tiered ruffles on flowing trench coats and black skirts, often combined with structured jackets, alongside sleek black dresses that include one-shouldered designs, batwing sleeves, and alluring bare-back styles.
While the collection's color palette offers 'accessible and wearable' options for the colder months, it also integrates striking maximalist details. Notable examples include camouflage prints and chocolate-toned plaids, which, despite their wintery appearance, are crafted from lightweight viscose and cotton poplin. Danan suggests styling these pieces with a hint of disarray or integrating them with essential wardrobe staples for a seamless transitional look, a method she applies in her own dressing. The brand's remarkable doubling in sales over the past year highlights its growing appeal across continents. With this strong foundation established, CO is set to make its highly anticipated debut at Paris Fashion Week in March, marking a significant milestone that Danan describes as a 'coming out' for the brand, known for its minimalist aesthetic with a creative edge.
CO's journey exemplifies how personal experience and a clear vision can drive innovation and success in the fashion world, demonstrating that creativity flourishes when designers draw inspiration from their diverse backgrounds and aspirations. The brand's upcoming Paris Fashion Week debut is not just a presentation of new designs, but a celebration of artistic integrity and a forward-looking spirit that promises exciting developments.