The news that Cos, the label launched by HM offering clean-cut, modern clothes by Swedish designer Rebekka Bay, is to open in BT2 next Friday, October 29th, will come as a great surprise for its many fans here in Ireland including this writer.

Its flagship London store in Regent Street opened three years ago and became the mecca for those looking for reinvented classics at affordable, attractive prices. There’s a real focus on quality, fit and finish and with prices starting from €49-€79 for skirts, dresses and trousers (party dresses go up to €125) and outerwear from €79-€225, there are usually some great buys. Expect plain, sober colours with few brights, Marni-style shapes and an overall Nordic coolness to the womenswear.