Kotn Is Very Good Right Now
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I had never paidKotnmuch attention before. Its cotton basics seemed to me to cater to a tween-y crowd, the kind who prefer their shorts cargo style, their tops slouchy, and their stripes in excess — all perfectly fine, but not my style. But something has shifted recently. Kotn’s newer pieces still feature the brand’s signature off-the-shoulder cuts, slouchy drapes, and decorative ties but in a more mature way, like this one-shoulderasymmetricaltop I’d happily wear to dinner or this Cou Cou Intimates–ypointelle deep V-neckwith dainty three-quarter sleeves. The Instagram ads I’d typically skip right past are actually making me stop.
And I’m not the only one noticing. The brand has made recent appearances in several Strategist stories, including contributorMacKinley Jade Lutes-Adlhoch’shunt for a perfectly rounded V-neckand writer Arielle Avila’s roundup ofalternatives to Everlane’s basics. I can’t stop spotting people wearing Kotn around the city, either. On the subway recently, I noticed a woman wearing thisone-shoulder topin a punchy red; downtown, I saw someone in thesebow-adorned long linen shorts. All to say: Kotn is particularly good right now, especially if you’re after well-priced, well-done, natural-fiber basics that are a tad trendier than those from brands like Gap or J.Crew but still plenty versatile. I tried several pieces myself to see if how the clotheslookedmatch up to how they wore and scrolled through the newest pieces to round up the best of Kotn right now.
The pieces I tried
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I tried a mix of true basics, slightly elevated basics, and dressier tops. On the basics front, this tank was excellent. The deep racerback is hot without being showy, and the front neckline isn’t too low either. Yes, it’s just a tank (made from 100 percent Egyptian cotton), but its formfitting shape and comfortable thickness make it a top I can wear in far more situations than just a hot summer day.
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I often have an issue with skimpier camisoles like this one. Usually, the straps are too thin to cover bra straps, and the bodice is not supportive enough to be worn braless. But this cami does a lot more than most. It works as a layer, of course. But even in white and even when worn braless, it’s not too translucent to wear on its own. That’s thanks to the slightly stiffer, thicker cotton, which has a one-by-one rib instead of a finer two by two. It’s been a nicely fitted but not overly slim or tight option to wear layered over white tees for a double-layer look, too.
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For the Flore Flore–inclined. This tank is exceedingly comfortable throughout thanks to the 5 percent spandex. I’m always team hip-length when it comes to tanks, which this one is. The fit is slim and elongating thanks to its high neck and stitching along the arm openings. The back cutout is modest but cheeky and just the right twist on an otherwise plain basic. I’ve already paired this with jeans, skirts, and essentially any wedge or sandal in my closet.
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I was most excited about this piece — I can’t resist showing some back in the summer, and this is a significantly cheaper take on theStill Herehalter I’ve been eyeing. The cotton poplin is crisp and breezy, but my favorite parts are the high neckline and the playful front split that’s not too revealing. I do wish I had sized down for a tighter fit in the bust, though; I had to wrap the back portion’s strings around my waist twice forthe most secure fit and full coverage.
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Kotn Tala Skirt
Of the Tala matching set, I think I prefer the skirt. The ties are reminiscent of Brooke Callahan’s bottoms, and the length is just right — knee length but not verging into midi territory. It pairs well with baby tees and tanks for simple and lightweight summer looks. Walking in it is easy, too, as the length and slight side slit make for a non-constrictive straight fit.
The things I’m eyeing next
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If you’re starting to look toward filling out the gaps in your fall wardrobe, start here. The pointelle threading makes this 100 percent cotton cardigan plenty breathable for the early weeks of September and October when it’s still too warm for full sweaters. And anything with buttons is a plus for versatility; wear it on its own or as a layer, fully buttoned for the office or half-buttoned for happy hour. I love the details, too, like the scallop picot binding on the scooped neckline.
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This top could just as easily be from Reformation — except it’s half the price. It scratches the “going-out top” itch with its angular, asymmetric neckline. Since it’s made of lyocell jersey and elastane, I’d expect it to feel slinky and slim but stretchy, perfect for dressier or in-between occasions. I’m especially enticed by the alluring reveal of one shoulder and the cap sleeve on the other. If they release it in black, I’ll be unable to resist.
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The Tara line above also features thisBrooke Callahan–esquepoplin pant, just in time for apull-on pantsummer. I recommend the red pair for a Leset Kyoto look.
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I was drawn to the high boatneck and low, scoop-neck back on this top. Coupled with the fluttered sleeves, it’s an elegant swap for your average crewneck. The semi-sheer striated ribbing is attractive, and the viscose should also make for breathable wear. The same fabric is behind the top’s matchingSolis skirtand atwo-in-one camisole and boleroif the short sleeve isn’t for you.
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I’m in a long-short state of mind lately. These 50 percent wool ones seem substantial but not too heavy for summer, and their length (and pleats) are elegant — great for the office and beyond.
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These frilly edged bloomers are made of 100 percent linen with an elastic waist and roomy leg openings. I think these would be an especially great, low-lift option for lazy days walking through the city in hazy heat (bonus points if paired with a vintage graphic tee and ballet pumps).
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I never — and I mean never — wear sweatpants, not even on flights. But the thought of pairing these wide-legged 100 percent organic French terry cotton Capris with a flat is beginning to change my mind. The waistband is flatteringly wide and looks almost like a belt.
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