Who's in the mood for updating their wardrobe for when the sun decides to show up? I know I certainly do, and I think I'm good at finding some gems at M&S. I know the headline of this article might sound pretty smug, but honestly, I just have a skill at finding really good thing at Marks & Spencer (whether I'm browsing in store or having a cheeky look at the website). Maybe it's because I've worked in the fashion industry for 15+ years - you just become in-tune with the hero pieces that are being sold, and you get to see previews before everyone else.
Sometimes it's as simple as how the item is photographed for the website. For example, there are certain models you know some brands save for the best items. Or, it might also be because I shop for a living on HELLO! and our readers just love looking at the latest new-in pieces at M&S - join the club!
The biggest reason is probably because I love a bit of Marks & Spencer, and I have done for the past ten years or so. I remember when I worked at Elle Magazine and the M&S flagship store was close by so I'd always be having a little browse on my lunch hour.
The brand is so strong right now - and celebrities agree. Vogue Williams – a brand ambassador for M&S – is always modelling her latest style buy, and Holly Willoughby, a former brand ambassador, has been the Queen of picking out gems when the new season drops.
But let's talk about the new season, shall we? It's lighter in the mornings and the evenings, and the temperature has started to rise (some days!) so now is the perfect time to purchase a few spring pieces. I've included some transitional essentials ahead of your summer wardrobe. I couldn't resist a couple of vacation must-buys as well.
© Leanne BayleyHow I chose the best new-season M&S buys for spring
- Wow factor: What made me go 'wow', and what made me want to add to basket. Everything below is what I think looks stylish and perfect for the new-season.
- Versatility: I wanted all of these pieces to be added to your spring (and summer!) wardrobe with ease. In fact, they can all be mixed and matched.
- Style: I wanted to choose stylish buys only. Like I said, I have spidey-senses when I look on M&S, so I just went with my gut.
Best new-season buys for spring
1/14
M&S Collection Pure Cotton Floral Cutwork Detail Midi Tea Dress
The M&S Floral Dress Of Dreams
Editor's Note
How gorgeous is the delicate floral cutwork detailing? It adds a dainty feel to the dress, and you'll feel very elegant when you wear this.
Perfect For
A trip to a country pub on a warm afternoon.
This pure cotton tea dress is a super pretty option for warm days and the skirt is fully lined for a smooth shape.
2/14
M&S Autograph Lace Square Neck Strappy Waisted Midi Dress
M&S Lace Dress Of Dreams
Editor's Note
Woah! This dress is STUNNING. The vibrant lemon citrus shade is so perfect for when the sun comes out to play.
Perfect For
Your first spring wedding of the season.
This elegant lace dress from the Autograph collection features delicate embroidery and a square neckline for a slightly more modern look.
3/14
M&S Linen Blend Relaxed Single Breasted Blazer
M&S Linen Blazer Of Dreams
Editor's Note
You can't deny that 'spring', and 'linen' just go together, and this delightfull blazer from Marks will be the gift that keeps on giving.
Perfect For
Out for lunch or even to the office.
This single breasted blazer is made from a breathable linen-blend fabric, which makes it perfect for warm weather. It's cut in a relaxed fit and features a smart notched lapel.
4/14
M&S Ridged Heart Stud Earrings
The M&S Earrings Of Dreams
Editor's Note
I'm in my earrings era right now so these would be perfect in my jewellery box for spring.
Perfect For
Wearing with an all-black ensemble. Let your earrings do all the talking.
Statement earrings are having a real moment right now and these rigid heart shaped earrings are absolutely on the money.
5/14
M&S Straw Cross Body Duffle Bag
M&S Spring Bag Of Dreams
Editor's Note
This bag looks SO expensive, don't you think? If you told me this was a designer bag, I wouldn't question it.
Perfect For
Days out, going shopping and just general life.
This straw duffle bag is a stylish choice for carrying your essentials. It features detachable straps and a drawstring fastening for versatility.
6/14
M&S Per Una Breton Top
The M&S Striped Top Of Dreams
Editor's Note
Blame Princess Kate or maybe Alexa Chung, but I have an addiction to a spriped top - especially in the spring and summer. This £12.50 M&S top is definitely going straight into my basket. I love it styled with ecru jeans.
Perfect For
Well, that's the beauty of a striped top. You can wear it how you see fit! A trip to the supermarket? Perfect! A night out? Go for it. Working from home? Sure. It'll be the most hard-working item in your wardrobe.
Available in a brown stripe as well, this stylish striped top features a true boxy fit. What's more, it's crafted from breathable pure cotton.
7/14
M&S Lyocell Rich Tapered Ankle Grazer Trousers
The M&S Ankle Grazer Trousers Of Dreams
Editor's Note
I have a total obsession with M&S' ankle grazer trousers - they bring them back year after year. For 2024, I'll be styling them in a similar way to the model.
Perfect For
A shopping trip, dressed casually in an Anine Bing cool girl way.
This M&S ankle grazer trousers are made from a lyocell-rich fabric that's super soft and breathable, making them an ideal choice for warm weather.
8/14
M&S Pure Linen Cargo Trousers
The M&S Cargo Trousers Of Dreams
Editor's Note
I am crazy for cargo trousers at the moment - especially for down time wear over the weekend.
Perfect For
A day of exploring.
These utility trousers blend on-trend cargo styling with breezy pure linen, and what's more, they're elasticated at the back for comfort.
9/14
M&S Cotton Rich Single Breasted Relaxed Blazer
M&S Denim Blazer Of Dreams
Editor's Note
I am truly obsessed with this denim blazer, but then again, I'm obsessed with all things 00s.
Perfect For
A first date and you're wanting to look cool.
This cotton-rich blazer is made from denim-look fabric for casual-cool appeal. Style with a pair of cool girl trainers; whether you go for the Adidas Sambas or the Spezials.
10/14
M&S Cotton Rich Belted Longline Trench Coat
The M&S Trench Coat Of Dreams
Editor's Note
A trench coat is a must-have when you're going from winter to spring. This feels a bit fresher than your typical trench coat.
Perfect For
Trips to the office.
The warmer weather will come - get prepared! This trench coat will quickly become your go-to option in unpredictable weather.
11/14
M&S Collection V-Neck Jumper
The M&S V-Neck Knit Of Dreams
Editor's Note
It's still very chilly outside so you might want to ease into the new season with a knitted jumper and this vibrant pink one is just so comfy (and chic!) looking.
This jumper is knitted from air-yarn fabric for an ultra-lightweight feel. The added stretch helps to keep you comfortable.
12/14
M&S Jersey Ruched Midaxi Bodycon Dress
The M&S Jersey Dress Of Dreams
Editor's Note
I just love a column dress in spring and this classy beige midi dress has a new season feel.
Perfect For
Day drinks with a hot date.
This jersey dress is a versatile piece that can be dressed up with heels or wedges or down down with sandals or white pumps. It's cut to a regular fit, with a bodycon shape that truly flatters your figure.
13/14
M&S Denim Midi Skirt
The M&S Denim Skirt Of Dreams
Editor's Note
I am on the hunt for the perfect denim skirt this year - it's a key look for your pub garden dates so you might want to snap one up now.
Perfect For
Pub get-togethers with your friends. Team with a tee or a shirt, or would be great for a casual work event as well.
Last year, everyone was desperate for the perfect denim skirt, and the M&S buyers have listened.
14/14
M&S Wide Fit Leather Studded Gladiator Sandals
The M&S Sandals We Love
Editor's Note
Ok, we might be getting our hopes up - wearing sandals in spring - but you know when you need a pair they will be sold out. These also come in gold.
Perfect For
A holiday or a day trip somewhere.
These wide-fit gladiator sandals look so expensive and they will be perfect for a day running errands or meeting with friends.
