M&S has firmly placed itself as a giant in British fashion. Thanks to womenswear direction from Maddy Evans, the stalwart has curated an unrivaled offering of affordable and trend-led clothing – and recent collaborations with Bella Freud and 16Arlington have only cemented its sartorial influence.
Once synonymous with underwear or workwear, the retailer now competes with the likes of Zara, Cos and Mango for stylish staples that instantly go viral. From technical jackets and woven leather co-ords to waisted blazers, wide leg trousers and detailed shirts, its new-in collection takes catwalk influences and makes them wearable day to day.
Some of this season’s key trends – lace, funnel necks and sportscore – have been incorporated across the collection, which spans elevated evening wear, office staples, weekend style and more.
As always, M&S’s spring outerwear and denim range is particularly strong. Its barrel jean remains a bestseller, while newer styles like the wide leg turn up jeans and palazzo jeans put a smart spin on everyday denim. For spring’s in-between weather, structured blazers, linen blend trenches and lightweight bomber jackets provide plenty of layering inspiration.
Reflecting its new high street fashion influence, M&S has just refurbished its Oxford Street store ‘Pantheon’ into a shiny shopping oasis, which customers have compared to Zara. In a bid to build my dream capsule wardrobe for spring 2026, I ventured there on my lunch break to see what M&S has to offer this season.
Read more: M&S has jumped on this divisive shoe trend – and they’re selling out fast
After trying on more than 15 pieces, I found that the denim, outerwear and co-ords were among the best pieces this season, while the dresses, knitwear and blazers didn’t fit as nicely, or have the same star power. Highlights included a £15 pair of Adidas-inspired sport shorts, off-white Bermuda shorts, a white maxi skirt and a denim co-ord. Shop my favourite pieces below.
Read more: Molly Mae’s Adidas line includes new samba and superstar trainers – here’s where to shop
M&S faux leather bomber jacket
An elevated take on outerwear, this spring-ready bomber jacket is beautifully lightweight with a smooth, supple faux leather finish. The jacket has has enough weight to create a boxy shape, with the elasticated hem creating a bubble silhouette. The crew neck mirrors the hem, complete with sweet bow detailing.
Buy now £55, Marksandspencer.com
M&S denim shirred maxi skirt
This transitional denim co-ord comprises a shirred maxi skirt and matching blouse. When you don’t know what to wear in the morning, the two-piece is the perfect outfit to throw on and look effortlessly put together. But the seperates are just as versatile when styled individually, whether you pair the skirt with a simple white T-shirt and ballet flats, or the blouse with wide leg trousers and heeled boots. The cotton blend fabric is lightweight and soft – take your usual size in each item.
Buy now £46, Marksandspencer.com
M&S tie belted linen blazer
M&S’s tie belt blazer rivals Aligne and The Frankie Shop with its fluid but structured design. The linen-blend fabric is breathable and soft, while the off-white finish slots easily into your wardrobe. Designed with a tie waist to create a flattering silhouette, make sure to take your usual size.
Buy now £60, Marksandspencer.com
M&S cotton rich stripe shorts
Sportscore is everywhere this season, from Simone Rocha x Adidas to the rise of trainer Mary Jane shoes. M&S has tapped into the trend with this pair of sporty, striped red shorts that set you back less than £30. Designed from a cotton-blend jersey material, the shorts are breathable and airy with a slightly oversized cut. I went up one size to wear them low-rise and will be styling them with contrastingly feminine blouses this spring.
Buy now £26, Marksandspencer.com
M&S pleated bermuda shorts
This is the first pair of Bermuda shorts that I’ve met and liked. Being 6ft tall, I’ve never found a pair that look flattering rather than frumpy – but M&S shorts are designed with subtle pleated detailing that creates an A-line silhouette. The length is perfect, falling just above the knee, while the high waist cinches you in. For less than £30, the cotton-blend denim shorts are a steal.
Buy now £28, Marksandspencer.com
M&S linen rich seam detail top
This top instantly reminded me of designs from the Aussie label Dissh. Crafted from a lightweight linen-blend material, the top features flattering pleated detailing around the waist that accentuates your figure. The wide, loose sleeves and deep V-neck are perfect for spring and summer days.
Buy now £36, Marksandspencer.com
M&S linen blend jacket
Still looking for that hero jacket to prop up your spring wardrobe? The neutral finish of this linen style goes with everything, while the lightweight fabric means you won’t overheat on the commute. Complete with trench-style lapel detailing and an adjustable belt, I love the boxy silhouette.
Buy now £65, Marksandspencer.com
M&S white maxi skirt
I’ve already got a white maxi skirt in my wardrobe, but this new M&S style is about to replace it. The style is the perfect ankle grazing length, with a comfortable elasticated waist, expensive pleating detail and a lightweight, floaty fabric. When it comes to styling, the skirt is endlessly versatile – whether paired with a trench coat and trainers, or a vest and flip flops. The skirt isn’t online yet – but is sure to sell out when it drops.
Buy now, Marksandspencer.com
Best of the rest
M&S pleated side detail wide leg trousers
Buy now £33, Marksandspencer.com
M&S stormwear jacket
Buy now £40, Marksandspencer.com
M&S denim poplin shirt
Buy now £50, Marksandspencer.com
M&S side stripe trousers
Buy now £34, Marksandspencer.com
M&S pure cotton blue contrast shirt
Buy now £36, Marksandspencer.com
Discover more transitional inspiration with the best spring jackets
