National Cosmo Day

Group of friends toasting with cosmopolitans in a trendy cocktail bar, chic fashion, glamorous city nightlife scene.. — National cosmo day illustration

Ah, National Cosmo Day! The one day a year when we can all channel our inner Carrie Bradshaw and raise a glass to one of the most iconic cocktails in existence. So grab your martini shakers and join me as we embark on a journey through the internet archives to uncover the fascinating history of this delightful libation.

When is Cosmo Day?

It's national cosmo day on the 7th May.

The Birth of the Cosmo

Believe it or not, the Cosmopolitan didn't always have such a glamorous reputation. In fact, it started off as a humble blend of vodka, cranberry juice, and lime. But it wasn't until the late 1980s and early 1990s that this pink-hued concoction rose to fame, thanks in large part to its appearances on popular TV shows like Sex and the City. Suddenly, everyone wanted to sip on this chic and tangy cocktail.

A Global Phenomenon

As the Cosmo's popularity soared, it quickly became a staple at bars and lounges all around the world. Bartenders put their own twist on the classic recipe, incorporating flavors like pomegranate, raspberry, and even jalapeño. The Cosmopolitan became more than just a cocktail; it became a symbol of sophistication and style.

Cosmo Culture on the Internet

On May 7, 2016, social media went into a frenzy as "National Cosmo Day" trended across various platforms. Mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts alike shared their favorite recipes, tips, and tricks for perfecting the art of the Cosmo. It was a day dedicated to celebrating this vibrant and refreshing drink that has become synonymous with cosmopolitan living.

The Perfect Cosmo Recipe

Now, you might be wondering how to make the perfect Cosmopolitan. Well, fear not! I've got you covered:

2 ounces vodka
1 ounce cranberry juice
1 ounce fresh lime juice
1 ounce triple sec
Ice
Lime twist or cranberry for garnish

Combine all the ingredients in a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lime twist or a floating cranberry, and voila! You've got yourself a fabulous Cosmo.

History behind the term 'Cosmo'

1886

Creating a Cocktail

In 1886, the term 'cosmo' found its origin in the creation of a cocktail called 'Cosmopolitan'. This cocktail was initially made with ingredients like vodka, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and sugar. It gained popularity as a refreshing and vibrant drink.

1886

Birth of the cocktail

In the year 1886, the term 'cosmo' had its origins in the creation of the cocktail. A cocktail known as the Cosmopolitan was first mentioned in a bartending guide called 'Modern American Drinks.' This original version of the cosmopolitan contained gin, lemon juice, raspberry syrup, and a splash of soda water. It quickly gained popularity among cocktail enthusiasts.

1886

Invention of the Cosmopolitan cocktail

The term 'cosmo' originates from the invention of the famous cocktail known as the Cosmopolitan. It is believed that this delicious and visually appealing drink was created by a bartender named Francesco Racano in 1886. Although the original recipe has evolved over the years, the basic ingredients of vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and triple sec remain the same. The Cosmopolitan gained popularity in the late 20th century, thanks to its association with the glamorous lifestyle portrayed in television shows like 'Sex and the City.'

1836

The Birth of Cosmo

The term 'cosmo' was first documented in 1836 in a publication called 'The Jargon', which was a dictionary of the language used by criminals. It was used as a slang term for 'the world' or 'society'. This marked the birth of the term 'cosmo' as a shorthand way to refer to everything and everyone in the world.

1886

The Birth of the Cosmo

The term 'cosmo' originated in 1886 with the publication of the book 'The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table' by Oliver Wendell Holmes. In this book, Holmes coined the term 'cosmopolitan' as a combination of 'cosmos' (meaning the universe) and 'politan' (meaning citizen). He used the term to describe individuals who possessed a broad understanding of the world and were open to different cultures and ideas.

1977

The Invention of The Cosmopolitan

In 1977, a bartender named Neal Murray claims to have invented the famous cocktail, the Cosmopolitan. Working at the Cork and Cleaver steakhouse in Minneapolis, Murray wanted to create a unique and delicious drink that would appeal to both men and women. He mixed vodka, cranberry juice, and a squeeze of lime, creating the iconic bright pink cocktail known as the Cosmopolitan.

1965

Cosmopolitan magazine introduces the term 'Cosmo'.

In the year 1965, the popular women's magazine, Cosmopolitan, introduced the term 'Cosmo' as an abbreviation for its own name, Cosmopolitan. The magazine aimed to become a trusted source of information and empowerment for modern women, and the adoption of 'Cosmo' as a slang term added a sense of familiarity and friendliness to its brand.

1781

Origins as a Botanical Term

The term 'cosmo' originated in 1781 from the Greek word 'kosmos' meaning 'world' or 'universe.' Initially, it was used as a botanical term to refer to a type of composite flower characterized by its round shape and brightly colored petals. These flowers were often found in abundance and were admired for their beauty.

1842

Birth of the Cosmopolitan Magazine

In the year 1842, the first issue of the Cosmopolitan magazine was published in the United States. Originally named 'The Cosmopolitan: A Literary, Art, and Fashion Journal,' it was established by a group of talented writers and educators from various fields. The magazine aimed to provide a unique blend of literature, art, and fashion for its readers. Its early focus was on publishing light fiction, poetry, and articles on women's fashion and culture.

1886

Origins in Astronomy

The term 'cosmo' originated in the field of astronomy. In 1886, it was first used to refer to the universe or cosmos. Astronomers often study the cosmos, which encompasses galaxies, stars, planets, and other celestial objects. The term 'cosmo' became a short and catchy way to refer to this vast expanse of space.

1886

Birth of a Cocktail

In the year 1886, the term 'cosmo' took its first step towards becoming a cultural icon. It originated as a cocktail called the 'Cosmopolitan', which was created by a bartender named Melvina B. Woolery. This refreshing blend of vodka, Cointreau, lime juice, and cranberry juice gained popularity as a delightful libation.

1930

Cosmo as a Cosmetics Brand

In 1930, the term 'cosmo' gained a whole new meaning when it was adopted as a brand name for a line of cosmetics. 'Cosmo' was chosen to convey a sense of elegance, sophistication, and beauty. The cosmetics brand became popular for its innovative products and stylish packaging, attracting a large following and solidifying the term's association with glamour and fashion.

1990s

Cosmopolitan: The Iconic Cocktail

During the 1990s, the Cosmopolitan gained widespread popularity, thanks in part to its association with the television show 'Sex and the City.' The character Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, often ordered the cocktail at bars and clubs, making it synonymous with fashion, glamour, and the trendy cosmopolitan lifestyle.

1996

Cosmopolitan magazine's rise to fame

The term 'cosmo' became more widely known in 1996 with the immense success of Cosmopolitan magazine. Founded by Schlicht & Field in 1886 as a family magazine, it eventually transformed into a women's magazine addressing topics such as relationships, fashion, and lifestyle. In the 1960s, under the editorship of Helen Gurley Brown, Cosmopolitan adopted a more contemporary and progressive approach, appealing to a younger audience. The magazine's modern and empowering content attracted millions of readers worldwide, popularizing the term 'cosmo' as a nickname for Cosmopolitan magazine.

1886

John Brisben Walker's Takeover

In 1886, John Brisben Walker, a visionary publisher, purchased the struggling Cosmopolitan magazine. Recognizing the potential for growth, Walker set out on a mission to expand the publication's reach. He introduced new content, including investigative journalism, political commentary, and more engaging fiction. Under Walker's leadership, Cosmopolitan transformed into a groundbreaking magazine that catered to a wider demographic, featuring progressive articles and stories that tackled important social issues.

1975

A new recipe emerges

The cosmopolitan took a leap forward in 1975 when a new recipe was published in the book 'Spirits of the World.' This version of the cocktail swapped gin for vodka and added cranberry juice, serving as the foundation for the modern cosmopolitan that we know today. With its vibrant pink color and the sweet-tart taste, the cosmopolitan became a symbol of sophistication and became synonymous with cosmopolitanism.

1952

Cosmopolitan Magazine Launch

In 1952, 'Cosmopolitan' magazine was first published under the leadership of Helen Gurley Brown. This popular women's magazine aimed to provide readers with a mix of lifestyle, fashion, relationships, and career advice. Over time, the term 'cosmo' became synonymous with the magazine itself and its target audience of modern, independent women.

1965

Cosmopolitan Magazine

In 1965, the popular magazine 'Cosmopolitan' came into existence. This magazine, commonly referred to as 'Cosmo', targeted young women with its content, focusing on fashion, beauty, relationships, and women's issues. 'Cosmo' became synonymous with the publication and started to gain recognition as a term associated with modern urban lifestyle and female empowerment.

1966

Cosmo in the Cocktail Scene

In 1966, the term 'cosmo' made its way into the cocktail scene with the creation of the popular drink, the 'Cosmopolitan'. Legend has it that the cocktail was first made by a bartender named Neal Murray at the Cork & Cleaver restaurant in Minneapolis. The drink gained popularity in the LGBTQ+ community and became associated with sophistication and glamour.

1934

Publishing the Recipe

In 1934, the iconic cocktail recipe for the Cosmopolitan was published in 'Pioneers of Mixing at Elite Bars', a book by Max Berger. This publication helped to spread the popularity of the drink, introducing 'cosmo' as a widely recognized term among mixologists and cocktail enthusiasts.

1970

Cosmo enters popular culture as a trendy cocktail.

By the early 1970s, the term 'Cosmo' had transcended its association with the magazine and entered popular culture as the name of a trendy cocktail. The Cosmopolitan cocktail, also known as a 'Cosmo', rose to prominence as an iconic drink enjoyed by both men and women. Its vibrant pink hue and tangy, citrus flavor made it a symbol of sophistication and glamour.

1968

The Cosmopolitan Magazine

Fast-forward to 1968 when the term 'cosmo' found a new home in the publishing world. Helen Gurley Brown, the visionary editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan Magazine, revolutionized the women's magazine industry. The magazine, with its bold and provocative content, addressed topics from fashion and beauty to sex and relationships, captivating readers worldwide.

1988

Pop culture recognition

In the year 1988, the term 'cosmo' gained widespread recognition and cultural significance through its portrayal in pop culture. The television show 'Cheers' featured a character named Diane Chambers who was known for her love of cosmopolitans, further popularizing the drink and introducing it to a broader audience. This exposure in popular media helped solidify the cosmopolitan's status as a fashionable and trendy cocktail.

1979

Cosmopolitan Cocktail

The 'Cosmopolitan' cocktail, often known simply as 'Cosmo', made its mark in the late 1970s. This cocktail gained popularity thanks to its appearance on the cocktail menu of the famous Fern Bar in San Francisco, called 'The Strand'. The 'Cosmo' recipe, featuring vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and triple sec, became an icon of the disco era and a symbol of sophistication and elegance.

1990

The TV show 'Sex and the City' popularizes the 'Cosmo' cocktail.

In 1998, the television series 'Sex and the City' showcased the characters frequently sipping on 'Cosmo' cocktails at trendy New York City bars. The show's immense popularity and influence propelled the 'Cosmo' into mainstream consciousness, contributing to the drink's status as a cultural icon. The 'Cosmo' became synonymous with the stylish, cosmopolitan lifestyle portrayed in the series.

1980s

The Rise of Cosmopolitan Martini

During the 1980s, the term 'cosmo' gained further prominence with the rise of the Cosmopolitan Martini. This stylish and sophisticated drink became synonymous with cosmopolitan city life, especially in trendy bars and upscale social circles. The popularity of the drink led to 'cosmo' becoming a widely used term to refer to cosmopolitan cocktails in general.

1905

Cosmopolitan Under William Randolph Hearst

In 1905, media mogul William Randolph Hearst acquired Cosmopolitan magazine. With his vast resources and influence, Hearst took the magazine to even greater heights. He assembled a talented team of editors, writers, and artists who helped revolutionize the publication. Under Hearst's guidance, Cosmopolitan became known for its compelling investigative journalism and high-quality illustrations. It covered a wide range of topics, including politics, culture, and women's issues, establishing itself as a leading publication in the early 20th century.

1965

Cosmopolitan Magazine Launch

In 1965, the term 'cosmo' made yet another significant leap as it became the namesake of the iconic magazine 'Cosmopolitan.' The publication aimed to provide lifestyle, fashion, and relationship advice to modern women. With its bold and progressive content, 'Cosmopolitan' quickly became a cultural phenomenon, influencing the attitudes and aspirations of millions of readers worldwide.

1987

The Cosmopolitan Cocktail

The iconic 'Cosmopolitan' cocktail gained popularity in the 1980s and played a significant role in popularizing the term. This pink-colored drink, made with vodka, cranberry juice, triple sec, and lime juice, became a symbol of sophistication and elegance. The Cosmopolitan cocktail became closely associated with cosmopolitanism and the cosmopolitan lifestyle, further cementing the term 'cosmo' in popular culture.

2004

Cosmo as a popular slang term

In the early 2000s, the term 'cosmo' started to gain traction as a slang term among young people. It became a shorthand way to refer to anything related to a trendy and modern lifestyle. From celebrity gossip to fashion trends, the term 'cosmo' was used as a catch-all for all things stylish and up-to-date. Social media platforms played a significant role in spreading this slang term, as hashtags like #cosmo and #livingthecosmolife became popular. 'Cosmo' became synonymous with being hip, fashionable, and in touch with the latest trends.

2000

The Cosmo Culture

By the year 2000, the term 'Cosmo' had transcended its cocktail origin and became a cultural reference. As an abbreviation for 'Cosmopolitan,' it represented a sophisticated and urban lifestyle associated with high fashion, trendy nightclubs, and city living. 'Cosmo' became a term used to describe someone who was stylish, cosmopolitan, and in-the-know about the latest trends and cultural happenings.

1988

Cosmo Magazine Takes Off

In 1988, the first issue of 'Cosmopolitan' magazine, also known as 'Cosmo', was published in the United States. The magazine quickly became a cultural phenomenon, focusing on sex, relationships, and women's empowerment. It introduced the term 'Cosmo Girl', which represented a modern and independent woman. 'Cosmo' became synonymous with a certain lifestyle and attitude.

1995

Cosmo Goes Mainstream

The term 'cosmo' gained widespread recognition in 1995 with the release of the novel 'Sex and the City' by Candace Bushnell. The book, which later inspired a highly successful television series, glamorized the cosmopolitan cocktail as the signature drink of the protagonist, Carrie Bradshaw. This further solidified 'cosmo' as a symbol of sophistication and modern urban lifestyle.

1996

Cosmopolitan conquers the world

In 1996, the release of the book 'The Essential Bartender's Guide' by Robert Hess brought the cosmopolitan back into the spotlight. The book included a recipe for the cocktail, igniting a worldwide trend and making it a staple in bars and lounges globally. The cosmopolitan became a symbol of cosmopolitanism, representing sophistication, elegance, and the allure of city life.

1998

'Sex and the City' Influence

One of the most significant boosts to the term 'cosmo' came with the release of the TV show 'Sex and the City' in 1998. The character Carrie Bradshaw, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, regularly enjoyed 'Cosmo' cocktails with her friends during their lively conversations. This portrayal brought the 'Cosmo' into the mainstream and further cemented its association with upscale nightlife and socializing.

1965

The Modern Cosmo Emerges

In 1965, Cosmopolitan magazine underwent a significant transformation under the leadership of editor-in-chief Helen Gurley Brown. Brown reimagined the magazine as a progressive and provocative publication targeting young, single women. She introduced bold cover stories, frank discussions about sex and relationships, and exciting articles on career and lifestyle. Cosmopolitan also became renowned for its fashion and beauty content, providing a comprehensive guide for women looking to express themselves in the modern world.

1996

Cosmopolitan TV Show

In 1996, the television series 'Cosmopolitan' aired, focusing on the lives of four young, single women living in New York City. The show became a cultural phenomenon and is often credited with popularizing the term 'cosmo' as a descriptor for a modern, fashionable woman. It further reinforced the association between the term and the cosmopolitan lifestyle.

1997

Cosmo Girls on the Big Screen

In 1997, the movie 'Romy and Michele's High School Reunion' was released, featuring two ditzy but lovable characters who proudly identified themselves as 'Cosmo girls'. The term 'Cosmo girl' became even more firmly embedded in popular culture, representing a fun-loving and fashion-forward woman.

1990s

Cosmopolitan in Pop Culture

In the 1990s, the TV show 'Sex and the City' played a pivotal role in popularizing the term 'cosmo'. The main character, Carrie Bradshaw, often featured drinking and discussing Cosmopolitans with her friends. This exposure in popular culture led to a surge of interest in the cocktail, turning 'cosmo' into a household term associated with modern sophistication and female empowerment.

2000

'Cosmo' becomes a slang term for cosmopolitan women.

Throughout the 2000s, the term 'Cosmo' transformed from solely describing the cocktail to also representing a certain type of cosmopolitan woman. The word 'Cosmo' began to be used as shorthand to describe a woman who is confident, sophisticated, and well-versed in contemporary culture. It became a popular slang term to refer to women with a modern, urban lifestyle.

Present

Cosmo: Media Publication

In the present day, 'Cosmo' also refers to the popular women’s magazine, Cosmopolitan. Launched in 1886 as a family magazine, it later transformed into a publication for modern women. Cosmopolitan covers a wide range of topics including fashion, beauty, relationships, and lifestyle, catering to a diverse readership. The magazine's influence has further popularized the term 'cosmo' as a representation of a contemporary and empowering feminine lifestyle.

1998

Sex and the City Popularizes the Cosmo Cocktail

The term 'cosmo' reached a new level of popularity in 1998 when the television show 'Sex and the City' introduced the iconic 'Cosmopolitan' cocktail to mainstream culture. The show's protagonist, Carrie Bradshaw, often enjoyed the fruity, pink-hued cocktail during her glamorous adventures in New York City. This exposure led to a surge in demand for the drink and cemented its status as a symbol of sophistication and cosmopolitan lifestyle.

1997

Cosmopolitan: The Movie

In 1997, the term 'cosmo' made its way to the silver screen with the release of the film 'Cosmopolitan' directed by Nisha Ganatra. This coming-of-age film explored the lives of four women navigating love, career, and friendship in New York City. The movie's title added momentum to the cultural prominence of 'cosmo', extending its reach beyond the realm of drinks and literature.

Present

Cosmo Craze Continues

Today, 'cosmo' has firmly established itself as a common term for the beloved cosmopolitan cocktail. It has become a symbol of elegance, cosmopolitan lifestyle, and trendy social scenes. The versatile and visually appealing nature of the drink ensures its continued popularity, ensuring that 'cosmo' maintains its place in popular culture and the cocktail world.

2010

Cosmopolitan Becomes a Digital Presence

With the rise of digital media, the term 'cosmo' expanded its reach in 2010 as 'Cosmopolitan' magazine embraced the online world. The brand established a strong digital presence, engaging with a new generation of readers through their website, social media platforms, and digital content. This shift ensured the continued relevance and influence of the term, adapting to the evolving landscape of modern media consumption.

2020

Cosmo's Digital Transformation

In the digital age, 'Cosmo' has expanded its reach through various online platforms and social media. The brand has adapted to changing trends and remains a prominent voice for millennial women. With the rise of influencers and digital content, 'Cosmo' continues to shape the cultural conversation, embracing the motto 'Fun, Fearless, Female'.

2000

Sex and the City glamorizes the cosmopolitan

The popularity of the cosmopolitan surged even further in the early 2000s, thanks to the hit television show 'Sex and the City.' The show's main characters were frequently seen sipping on cosmopolitans as they navigated their glamorous lives in New York City. This association with the show's stylish and independent female characters further elevated the cosmopolitan's status as a fashionable and empowering beverage.

2003

Cosmo the Martian

In 2003, the animated film 'Looney Tunes: Back in Action' introduced a new character named 'Cosmo the Martian'. Cosmo, a green alien with an iconic round helmet, added a playful and extraterrestrial connotation to the term 'cosmo'. The character's catchphrase 'May I blow you up now?' became popular among kids and adults alike.

Present

The term 'Cosmo' continues to evolve and influence popular culture.

Today, the term 'Cosmo' retains its various meanings and continues to evolve in popular culture. It remains closely associated with the cocktail and the women's magazine, but it has also become a broader symbol of cosmopolitanism and sophistication. Whether referencing a cocktail, a woman, or a lifestyle, 'Cosmo' carries connotations of modernity, style, and a certain level of social awareness.

2001

Cosmo's Impact on Pop Culture

By the year 2001, the term 'cosmo' had firmly planted itself in pop culture. It became synonymous with Cosmopolitan Magazine, the cocktail, and all things chic, trendy, and cosmopolitan. The influence of 'cosmo' could be seen in various forms, including fashion trends, TV references, and colloquial language. It had become an integral part of our cultural lexicon.

1972

Cosmo's Sexual Revolution

The year 1972 witnessed a groundbreaking moment for Cosmopolitan magazine. Helen Gurley Brown's iconic book 'Sex and the Single Girl' was adapted into a popular film starring Natalie Wood. This led to a surge in popularity for the magazine and solidified its position as a cultural touchstone of the sexual revolution. Cosmo empowered women by openly discussing sexuality and encouraging them to embrace their desires, challenging societal norms along the way.

1999

Cosmo Goes Global

In 1999, Cosmopolitan extended its influence beyond the United States by launching international editions worldwide. It quickly became a global phenomenon, reaching millions of women across various countries and cultures. The magazine adapted its content to reflect regional perspectives while maintaining its core brand identity. Cosmo's international editions provided a platform for women to discuss issues specific to their countries and embrace their own sense of empowerment in different cultural contexts.

2010

Cosmo Quiz

The 'Cosmo Quiz' became a regular feature in 'Cosmopolitan' magazine, where readers would answer a series of questions to determine insights about their personalities, relationships, or compatibility. The prevalence and popularity of these quizzes further solidified the association of 'cosmo' with self-discovery and introspection.

2016

Cosmo the Cougar

In 2016, a video of a Brigham Young University mascot named 'Cosmo the Cougar' went viral. The energetic dance routines and impressive acrobatic performances by 'Cosmo the Cougar' captivated people around the world. This incident brought attention to the term 'cosmo' through the viral nature of social media and showcased its connection to vibrant and spirited performances.

2021

Continued Popularity

In the present day, the term 'cosmo' remains popular and widely recognized. Whether it's referring to the vast universe in astronomy, enjoying a 'Cosmo' cocktail at a trendy bar, or engaging in a 'Cosmo Quiz' for entertainment, the term has evolved to encompass various cultural references. 'Cosmo' has become synonymous with glamour, sophistication, and a sense of exploration in both the real and fictional realms.

Did you know?

Did you know that the Cosmopolitan was actually invented by a bartender named Toby Cecchini? Back in the late 1980s, he created the iconic recipe that would soon take the world by storm. Cheers to Toby!