Australian Retailers Sass & Bide, Cosette Announce Closures

Australian designer clothing brand Sass & Bide, owned by Myer, and luxury retailer Cosette have announced the cessation of their respective operations. Sass & Bide plans to close all physical and online retail channels by February 2026, with an stated aim to reinvent the brand. Cosette is closing after more than 11 years in business, citing changes in market conditions.

Both closures contribute to a broader trend affecting Australian retailers.

Sass & Bide Set for 2026 Closure with Reinvention Aim

Sass & Bide, an Australian designer clothing brand under Myer's ownership, has announced the closure of its entire physical and online retail network.

Timeline

Physical stores and Myer concessions are scheduled to cease operations by the end of January 2026. The brand's online store will follow, discontinuing operations by the end of February 2026.

Future Plans

The company stated its intention to "re-imagine" the brand's future direction during an offline period. It indicated that a "free-spirited and distinctly Australian attitude" would remain central to its identity. No specific relaunch date has been announced, with customers directed to social media channels for updates.

Customer Information

• Sale items are not eligible for return or exchange unless determined to be faulty.
• Full-price items can be refunded within 14 days of purchase.
• Gift cards will remain valid for use until the company stops trading.

Brand History

Established in 1999 by founders Sarah-Jane Clarke and Heidi Middleton, Sass & Bide specializes in women's clothing and accessories. Myer acquired a 65% stake in the company in 2011, completing its acquisition of the remaining 35% in 2014. Clarke and Middleton departed the company in 2014.

Luxury Retailer Cosette Ceases Operations After 11 Years

Australian luxury retailer Cosette is set to close down after more than 11 years in business.

Business Model

The Sydney-based company sold discounted luxury designer goods and reported serving over 140,000 customers.

Reason for Closure

Cosette attributed its decision to close its Sydney warehouse and operations to changes in the market.

Prior Allegations

In 2024, Cosette was cleared of allegations regarding the sale of counterfeit designer handbags. An investigation conducted by NSW Fair Trading concluded that there was no evidence to support these claims, with the agency stating that each item had been tested and verified as authentic by the brand itself.

Broader Trend Impacts Australian Retail Sector

The closures of Cosette and Sass & Bide are part of a broader trend impacting Australian retailers. Other businesses that have recently announced shutdowns include clothing brand Fletcher Jones, which closed its remaining physical stores and website.