If you're building a wardrobe around sleek, modern, and minimalist pieces, chances are you're already a fan of COS. They have mastered the art of creating timeless essentials with a contemporary edge, offering high-quality basics that feel elevated without being overly complicated. Think perfect-fit trousers, clean knitwear, and structured outerwear.
But part of the fun in refining your personal style is discovering new brands that share that same design philosophy. Whether you're looking for something more affordable, sustainable, or a little more luxurious, here are 21 brands that channel that minimalist COS energy.
Uniqlo is the go-to for affordable, functional, and minimalist basics. They offer a huge range of essentials like tees, chinos, and outerwear in a simple, clean aesthetic, with most pieces priced between $20-$100. Where COS feels more premium and architectural, Uniqlo prioritizes practicality and innovative fabrics like their famous HEATTECH and AIRism lifewear.
If you love COS for its timelessness but need well-made essentials at a more budget-friendly price point, Uniqlo is the perfect destination for everyday staples that are built to last. It’s perfect for stocking up on the foundations of a minimalist wardrobe.
Shop now at uniqlo.com
Everlane delivers minimalist menswear with a strong focus on ethical production and "Radical Transparency." They offer modern staples like premium tees, versatile denim, and sleek knitwear, typically priced from $30-$150. Their entire vibe is about making high-quality, timeless clothes that you can feel good about wearing.
Compared to COS, Everlane shares a very similar understated aesthetic but with a heavier emphasis on sustainability and showing you the true cost of their production. It’s the perfect brand for guys who want to build a refined wardrobe rooted in conscious consumerism.
Shop now at everlane.com
A.P.C. (Atelier de Production et de Creation) is the definition of understated Parisian cool. The French brand is celebrated for its investment-worthy raw denim, simple shirting, and impeccably tailored essentials that feel effortlessly sophisticated. The price point is higher than COS, generally landing between $150-$400.
While both brands are minimalist, A.P.C. feels slightly more classic and refined, with a focus on world-class fabrics and subtle, timeless detailing. If you love the shapes of COS but want to upgrade to a more premium, luxury alternative, A.P.C. is an excellent choice.
Shop now at apc.fr
Hailing from Japan, Muji translates to "no-brand, quality goods," and that philosophy is infused into their menswear. The brand is known for its hyper-functional, beautifully simple clothing that's free of logos and fuss, often using organic cotton and natural fibers. Better yet, most pieces are well under $100.
Like COS, Muji offers a clean, versatile aesthetic, but they are driven by a deeper ideology of simplicity and purpose. It's minimalism that's designed for a streamlined life, not just for a clean look.
Shop now at muji.com
As COS's sister brand within the H&M group, Arket shares a similar DNA of modern, Scandinavian-inspired design. They focus on creating a "modern-day market" with well-made wardrobe essentials like merino wool sweaters, tailored trousers, and premium cotton tees, priced from $50-$200.
The main difference is that Arket often leans slightly more functional and casual, with an archive of core styles that return season after season. If you appreciate the quality and sustainability efforts behind COS but want pieces that feel just a bit more straightforward and utilitarian, Arket is your spot.
Shop now at arket.com
Frank And Oak is a Canadian B Corp that seamlessly blends modern, minimalist design with a serious commitment to sustainability. They offer everything from chinos and sweaters to outerwear, almost always made from eco-conscious materials, with prices ranging from $50 to $250.
Think of them as a more relaxed and nature-inspired version of COS. The silhouettes are clean and versatile, but the overall vibe is less architectural and more centered around comfortable, planet-friendly dressing.
Shop now at frankandoak.com
For minimalist staples on a budget, J.Crew Factory is a solid option. It delivers the classic, preppy-leaning essentials the mainline is known for but at much more accessible price points, typically between $20 and $100. You'll find a great selection of simple crewneck sweaters, basic chinos, and casual button-downs.
While its style leans more all-American classic than COS's Scandinavian modernism, J.Crew Factory is an excellent resource for building out the more casual end of a minimalist wardrobe without breaking the bank.
Shop now at factory.jcrew.com
Zara offers a faster-fashion take on minimalist trends, making it the perfect place to experiment with of-the-moment silhouettes. In their menswear section, you can find a core collection of clean basics like sleek trousers, simple tees, and blazers alongside more trendy items, priced from $30-$150.
Zara is a great alternative to COS when you want that minimalist vibe but with a slightly edgier, more fashion-forward twist. It responds instantly to runway trends, giving you a chance to try something new without a major investment.
Shop now at zara.com
Part of the same parent company as Zara, Massimo Dutti is its more sophisticated older brother. The brand specializes in refined, elegant menswear with a distinct European flair, offering pieces like wool coats, leather jackets, and crisp shirting that range from about $100 to $400.
If you admire COS's clean aesthetic but are looking for designs that feel more polished, classic, and luxurious, Massimo Dutti is a perfect fit. The quality and craftsmanship are impressive for the price, making their pieces feel like a worthwhile investment.
Shop now at massimodutti.com
Designed by Christophe Lemaire and Sarah-Linh Tran, this Parisian brand is the pinnacle of elevated, artful minimalism. Lemaire is known for its fluid silhouettes, neutral color palette, and incredible attention to fabric and cut. This is true luxury, with pieces typically ranging from $200-$600 and up.
Lemaire is what COS aspires to be in a high-fashion context. Both brands share a love for modern shapes and understated style, but Lemaire’s interpretation is more conceptual and uncompromisingly luxurious, making it a dream brand for any die-hard minimalist.
Shop now at lemaire.fr
Adetta is a Scandinavian label focused on refined, functional menswear made from sustainable and high-quality materials. Their collections often feature pieces like relaxed trousers, versatile shirting, and minimal outerwear with a clean, utilitarian feel, priced in the $150-$400 range.
Much like COS, Adetta creates long-lasting essentials with a modern sensibility. Their aesthetic is ideal for the minimalist who values responsible production and perfectly designed pieces that are both stylish and practical.
Shop now at adettastudio.com
Based in Copenhagen, Norse Projects seamlessly blends Scandinavian minimalism with streetwear functionality. They deliver clean, understated pieces like technical outerwear, basic logo tees, and relaxed pants that are refined enough for everyday wear but built for performance. Prices typically fall between $80-$300.
While COS is more focused on modern tailoring, Norse Projects incorporates a subtle streetwear edge. It's the perfect brand for the guy who appreciates minimalist design but also wants his clothing to be durable, functional, and effortlessly cool.
Shop now at norseprojects.com
Another Copenhagen native, Wood Wood perfectly bridges the gap between high fashion and streetwear. Their designs often feature clean lines and minimalist shapes while incorporating contemporary cultural references and a subtle urban edge. You'll find everything from hoodies to minimal outerwear for around $50-$250.
Unlike COS's pure minimalism, Wood Wood isn't afraid to play with graphics and branding. It's a great option when you want a versatile wardrobe with a bit more personality and a distinct city vibe.
Shop now at woodwood.com
Closed is a German brand that started with denim and has since evolved into a full ready-to-wear collection rooted in quality and minimalist design. They excel at producing incredible jeans, simple knitwear, and timeless shirting with prices generally between $80 and $300.
Their heritage in denim craft gives their collection a sturdy, well-made foundation that pairs perfectly with a minimalist aesthetic. If you're looking for that COS polish with a focus on expertly crafted pants and high-quality casual staples, Closed is your brand.
Shop now at closed.com
Aries brings a high-fashion, streetwear sensibility to minimalism with a hint of rebellious energy. Founded in London, the brand is known for its elevated essentials, often featuring unique fabrics, interesting textures, and subtle graphic touches. Expect to see prices in the $100-$350 range.
While definitely more fashion-forward than COS, Aries maintains a core minimalism in its silhouettes that makes it a great choice for those who want their pared-back look to have a noticeable edge and a touch of subversive cool.
Shop now at ariesarise.com
For the minimalist who refuses to let bad weather ruin their outfit, there's Rains. This Danish brand has perfected the art of waterproof gear, creating sleek, modern jackets, backpacks, and accessories with a distinctly Scandinavian aesthetic. Their signature raincoats range from around $80 to $250.
Rains takes the functional, clean-lined principles that COS applies to a full wardrobe and dedicates them entirely to weatherproof outerwear. It's the ideal choice for adding a practical yet hyper-stylish layer to your look.
Shop now at rains.com
Baserange focuses on the minimalist philosophy from the inside out, specializing in ultra-soft, sustainable basics, underwear, and loungewear. Made from natural fibers like organic cotton and bamboo, their pieces are designed for comfort and simplicity, with prices generally under $100.
While COS handles your outerwear layers, Baserange corners the market on clean, mindfully made essentials that lie closest to the skin. It’s perfect for embracing minimalism in every single part of your wardrobe.
Shop now at baserange.com
Based in Budapest, Nanushka has become synonymous with effortless, sustainable luxury. Designer Sandra Sandor creates incredibly chic menswear known for its fluid tailoring, rich textures, and signature use of vegan leather. This is a high-end alternative, with pieces ranging from $300 to $800.
Think of Nanushka as COS’s cooler, more worldly cousin. The brand delivers on the minimalist promise but with an added layer of bohemian-meets-modern sophistication, making it perfect for statement pieces that still feel understated.
Shop now at nanushka.com
Séfr is a Scandinavian brand that began as a curated vintage store before launching its own collection of modern classics. They deliver refined menswear with a vintage sensibility - think perfectly cut trousers, textured knitwear, and unique shirts in understated palettes. Prices typically run from $200-$500.
What sets Séfr apart is its focus on fabric and texture, giving its minimalist designs a sense of warmth and character. It shares COS's love for elegant simplicity but with a noticeable touch of thoughtful, vintage-inspired detail.
Shop now at sefr.se
This German label is all about contemporary design meets exceptional craftsmanship, with every piece produced locally in Germany. They create timeless menswear using carefully sourced fabrics from around the world, from Scottish wool to Italian milled cotton, priced from $250-$600.
A Kind of Guise is for the purist who loved COS's aesthetic but is ready to invest in serious, long-term heirloom pieces. Their commitment to quality and material is second to none, making their minimalist essentials truly stand out.
Shop now at akindofguise.com
It’s worth mentioning Lemaire twice because it truly is the north star for this specific style. The brand defines seasonless sophistication, creating clothing that is less about trends and more about a feeling - fluidity, comfort, and quiet confidence. It perfectly embodies the minimalist ethos at its most aspirational level.
For anyone who has built a foundational wardrobe at COS and is looking for their forever pieces, Lemaire represents the ultimate upgrade - investments in impeccable design, fabric, and silhouette that you will wear and cherish for decades.
Shop now at lemaire.fr
At Apart Style, we're obsessed with curating the best in fashion, beauty, and jewelry to help you discover new brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, style, and uniqueness. When you make a purchase through our links, Apart Style may earn a commission - which helps support our small team, and allows us to continue bringing you the best in online style brands.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our full brand directory or check out our curated brand guides to find your new favorite thing.
