All the bargains I’m obsessed with at M&S this week – including a pair of Tony Bianco slingback dupes under £50
MARKS and Spencer is frequently expanding its stock, across womenswear, menswear, home, and everything in between, and, my oh my, am I impressed with the selection.
Every week we will be sharing our favourite new-in pieces dropping at M&S across all departments just to take the stress out of your shopping spree.
Over the last couple of weeks, my friends and I have all been commenting on how good Marks & Spencer has been of late.
M&S has stood the test of time as one of the longstanding retailers on the high street, and it is not going anywhere any time soon – at least we hope not.
Admittedly M&S was once associated with just children and the older generation, as it was the store I would head to with my mum and sister to get my school shoes and the rest of my new school uniform, while my nan would and grandad would love the cashmere jumpers, smart trousers.
But over the years M&S has become even more inclusive and as a 30-something year old its one of the first places on my shopping list to score a new outfit, whether it is for an upcoming holiday, the office, everyday wear, loungewear, footwear, accessories, and home (yes, my sofa is from M&S and it has never received so many compliments for being mega comfy).
In recent weeks M&S launched an impressive spring collection starring Sara Sampaio, and it proved they are killing it, and their spring collection is full of on-trend, super wearable pieces – that are affordable too.
M&S has recently expanded the collection to include even more supportive and sexy lingerie, as well as many more garments that will elevate anyone’s wardrobe.
The M&S collection ranges from dresses to tank tops and shorts, blazers, and trench coats to a stunning array of bags, which look very similar to designer bags.
One thing we can trust with M&S is everything is also reasonably priced, depending on what you purchase.
Whether you want to invest in an entirely new wardrobe, shake up your existing staples with newness, or inject extra staples, and colourful pieces, into your capsule wardrobe, the M&S collection has all bases covered.
Our top picks in M&S new collection
Linen Rich Tailored Double Breasted Blazer
M&S have been dropping a variety of suits of late, particularly linen designs, which we love.
Linen is often deemed a summer fabric, but one that is maybe best suited for the beach rather than everyday wear or the office, but M&S has created a variety of pieces that are office friendly, and more formal too, so you could even wear for a wedding guest outfit.
Case in point is the new Linen Rich Tailored Double Breasted Blazer, which you can coordinate with the matching waistcoat and smart tailored trousers, just the trousers, or wear on its own.
The blazer is made from lightweight and breathable linen, but the smart tailoring, albeit a more relaxed fit, is super flattering for all body shapes. The exaggerated shoulders are a nod to the 80s and give the illusion of a smaller waist, it features button front fastening, as well as two flap pockets.
Printed V-Neck Midaxi Waisted Dress
M&S is known for its impressive dress collection, which are often adorned by the likes of Amanda Holden and Holly Willoughby.
The midaxi design is hugely popular because it falls midway down the calf, so does not swamp the wearer, nor is it too skimpy and revealing – just a happy medium.
We predict this dress will sell out fast, as M&S’ midaxi dresses often do, as they are chic, comfortable, versatile and affordable.
This design features elasticated long sleeve cuffs, though they can be pulled up for a puff 3/4 sleeve look, it has a v-neckline, and fitted waist to create that hourglass silhouette without being too skintight.
Pair with trainers for everyday attire, black boots for autumn/winter, pumps or sandals for spring/summer, and even wedges for a summer party or more formal event.
Linen Rich High Waisted Pleat Front Shorts
We said the linen co-ords at M&S are impressive, and this set is another favourite we desperately want.
The shorts are perfect for the office and everyday wear this summer as they are not skimpy like hotpants, but not too long either, just the happy medium to suit all body shapes and sizes.
These tailored shorts are high waisted to provide extra support and coverage, feature belt loops to help accessorize the look, and a front pleat for that sleek tailored look.
Pair with the matching waistcoat and blazer, or mix and match with a white t-shirt, tank top, or maybe a lighter linen shirt instead of the blazer. green or black
Polka Dot V-Neck Maxi Wrap Dress
M&S dresses are like no other, and this polka dot number is one we plan on living in all summer long, for work, brunch with friends, even weddings too.
This design is super versatile as you can style with sandals, wedges and heels, or trainers, depending on the occasion.
This creation is a regular fit, and features a v-neckline, is midaxi length, boasts short billowy sleeves to provide some coverage without restricting the wearer. This dress has a waist panel to hug the waist slightly and cinch in the dress to show off your frame, before it floats out into an A-line design.
The extra detailing, in the form of the dropped tier hem, makes this even more feminine in our opinion.
The dress is unlined, which is a slight pet peeve of ours as we like that extra coverage and structure underneath a dress to help it fall straight. So, if you’re like us, we would recommend wearing a slip underneath, which you can shop at M&S too.
Cotton Blend Textured Crew Neck Cardigan
Rich girl cardigans have been all we can talk about, and the main source of inspiration for the transitional seasons, but we don’t see this trend going away anytime soon.
This cardigan comes in a black or white version, and we want both.
This cardigan is perfect to layer over at-shirt or tank top, paired with jeans, trousers, shorts, even a satin slip skirt, it really is that versatile.
The hem features contrast stripe detail, and gold button front, which makes this creation look uber luxe.
Denim Maxi Skirt
Denim maxi skirts flew onto shop rails – both IRL and virtually – last year, and the trend is back.
The 90s style is super chic, and another welcome alternative to slip skirts, or mini skirts.
The maxi length provides coverage, but the slit shows a little leg so you are not restricted.
This skirt is made from super soft denim and cotton blend, with added stretch, so it hugs your body in all the right places, is comfortable, but also provides the necessary movement.
This denim maxi skirt comes in black and dark blue denim, can be styled with a t-shirt and trainers, boots, or heels, a blouse, or more glamorous top depending on the occasion.
Leather Buckle Kitten Heel Slingbacks
Slingback shoes, whether they are flat, kitten heels, or high heel stilettos have had a resurgence, and many in the fashion firm are opting for Tony Bianco designs.
But if you are looking for a more affordable pair of heels to get the designer look, we strongly recommend M&S’ version which are a very close dupe in our opinion – and for under £50.
The patent slingbacks are made from responsibly sourced super soft leather for a comfortable wear when spending hours on your feet.
The pointed toe design is super flattering, and on trend, as they can poke out under a wide leg trouser or jean, but equally as regal with a dress too.
The slim strap front add extra detail, security to stop your feet falling out, but also give these the Tony Bianco look.
Most of M&S footwear is created using the brand’s signature Insolia technology, which aims to redistribute your weight to avoid any soreness or discomfort.
These shoes are also available in flat design too, why not get both?
Lyocell
Blend Wide Palazzo Leg Jeans
Jeans are a must-have in everyone’s wardrobes, whether it’s barrel leg jeans, straight leg jeans, dare we say it skinny jeans, but Palazzo Jeans are another style to invest in.
M&S has found sales are up 80% for Palazzo jeans, and the Lyocell Blend Wide Palazzo Leg Jeans, £45 are the brand’s second bestseller across womenswear this week, so, of course, we need to get on board.
We consider the Palazzo jeans a hybrid between wide-leg jeans and flares, both styles we love and wear time after time.
The Palazzo jeans are a versatile style we would wear casually with trainers or ballet pumps, alternatively, we would pair them with wedges, cowboy boots or heels for a more elevated look.
Pinstripe Pleat Front Wide Leg Trousers
The Pinstripe Pleat Front Wide Leg Trousers, £45 were recently spotted on Rachel Stevens, and us – as soon as our delivery arrives.
We love a matching tailored set, as it is super elegant and effortless, but can also be worn in numerous ways, whether you wear the full set together or mix and match, so essentially you can get multiple outfits out of one co-ord.
If you only want to wear wide-leg trousers you can pair them with a shirt, t-shirt or vest top, and, depending on the occasion, style with trainers, a blazer, or a leather jacket.
Alternatively invest in the Pinstripe Blazer for £69, complete with the Pinstripe Waistcoat for £35 for the office, the races, or a wedding guest.
Linen Blend Longline Trench Coat
If you are a fan of a Trench Coat already, maybe you already own one, but you will still find yourself longing for the linen version from M&S as we have been.
The Linen Blend Longline Trench Coat, £79 is super chic, but also lightweight and breathable, which makes it the perfect spring/summer outerwear piece. Consider it more of a gentle cardigan than a thick trench coat, though styled the same way.
This linen design is great as a cover-up to wear to and from work, or when attending formal events in the summer but it’s a little breezy or drizzly outside.
Denim Boyfriend Shorts
It’s almost shorts weather, so if you are on the hunt for a flattering pair to wear all summer long, which are supportive, stylish, but not too skimpy then don’t miss M&S’ Denim Boyfriend Shorts, £27.50.
The boyfriend shorts are high-waisted, and fall a third of the way down the thigh, which we love so we are not left feeling overexposed.
The shorts are available in 11 colours and patterns, and we want one of each.
Denim Pleat Front Belted Shorts
If you are looking to expand your shorts collection even more so, or maybe you are hunting for a more formal pair to wear to the office in the summer (if the dress code permits) the Denim Pleat Front Belted Shorts, £32.50 get our seal of approval.
Not only would we wear these shorts to the office with a linen blazer and dainty pumps, but we would also wear them for a shopping spree, day out, everyday wear, and, of course, on holiday.
They are slightly longer and slightly flare out so they are not tight to the body for extra comfort and mobility, which is exactly what we need when dressing for balmy summer days.
Wide Fit Block Heel Mules
Whether you are styling jeans, shorts, a skirt or a dress, no matter the occasion, a pair of mules are a flattering footwear staple.
The Wide Fit Block Heel Mules, £29.50 boast a block heel, which will help those unsteady in heels stay upright, plus the front detailing resembles Hermes sandals.
Faux Leather Cross Body Bag
M&S’ bags are always a hit with shoppers. In the past M&S has created a bag that has been likened to the Celine Cross Body classic.
This new collection sees even more luxe-looking bags, and we are always on the lookout for a designer lookalike to save us hundreds, or even thousands, of pounds.
Case in point the Faux Leather Cross Body Bag, £35, which is made from faux leather fabric, features a chunky metal fastening, and almost a bubble-like soft foam texture.
At first glance, we thought this looked very similar to the Coach Pillow Bag everyone has been lusting after, or Loewe’s Puffer Goya that fetches over £2,000.
M&S variation has a shoulder strap and longer strap to wear across the body, and we can’t see ourselves wearing any other accessory day or night.
Checked Puff Sleeve Mini Smock Dress
Gingham is a pattern that returns each summer, and a telltale way to know the warmer months have arrived is when this print is laden in high street stores.
The Checked Puff Mini Smock Dress, £39.50 is a favourite of ours. It is lightweight, breathable and floaty, perfect for those balmy summer days.
It features 3/4 length puff sleeves, which are super flattering, while the dress is an a-line fit, and flares out so as not to be figure-hugging.
It comes in a zesty green and white print or black and white checked creation and falls midway down the thighs.
Pair with flats, or trainers, maybe even clog wedges for a more dressy occasion, no matter how you style it we think you will live in this comfy one-piece all summer.
Faux Leather Shoulder Bag
When we said M&S’ new accessories were super luxe and highly coveted we were not joking.
Another accessory to add to your collection includes the Faux Leather Shoulder Bag, £29.50 which we think looks similar to Loewe’s Puzzle Bag, which typically costs £1,750, though M&S’ new drop is just under £30.
The bag features a large main compartment, as well as an inner zip pocket, concealed by a neat flap, which is secured shut with a magnet.
The chunky shoulder strap gets a tick from us, as it is a more comfortable wear and does not dig into your shoulders for hours of wear.
Padstow Bistro Garden Table & Chairs
Summer is in the air so it is time to live n the garden, or on our balcony, once again to enjoy the sunshine.
No matter how big or small your outdoor space is, this compact dining table and chairs set will fit perfectly, and is exactly what you need to enjoy a morning brew on the balcony, or evening dinner al fresco.
The best part is when not in use you can easily fold the three-piece set and store neatly away, so it is an investment piece you can bring out every summer and hibernate come the winter – a bit like us.
Woven Picnic Hamper
Warm weather means one thing – picnics.
If you want to make your way to your al fresco feast with friends looking a little more stylish, and eco-conscious then swap the carrier bags filled with treats for this stylish hamper you can reuse time and time again.
It’s all about the aesthetic right?
This hamper features two lids which open into one main compartment that is large enough to hold your “girl lunch”.
Electric Table Top Heater
With summer on the way we are turning to dining outdoors once again, but for those days, or evenings, when it is a bit too breezy an outdoor heater is a welcome home essential.
This easy to use plug in device will instantly radiate warmth to keep the chill at bay so you can keep those summer evenings going til dark.
It is lightweight, weighing just 7.5kg and measuring 94cm in height, 50cm in depth and 28cm in width, so this plug in is perfect for the counter top.
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