Everything We Saw and Loved at the M&S Spring Summer Press Day
Fashion has fallen back in love with M&S, and we couldn’t be happier to see the iconic British retailer thriving. Last summer the style must-have (along with anything Brat green), was their leopard print jeans in the perfect effortless wide leg cut. It was almost impossible to get your hands on a pair – they sold out almost immediately online and appeared on resale sites at inflated prices. This was followed by well-executed collaborations with Sienna Miller and Bella Freud (I’m still kicking myself I didn’t get one of the sold-out Freud slogan jumpers), and yet more hit styles from the perfect suede loafer, to the neatly tailored waistcoat co-ord, and the studded leather ballet pump.
But what’s the secret to M&S new found sartorial success? We suspect it’s their ability to interpret the trends in quality fabrics and flattering cuts in sizes 6-24, making good design and fun fashion accessible to all.
Which has all left us wondering – what will be the Spring/Summer 2025 M&S must-have? Just a few weeks ago, in the spirit of true investigative journalism we headed to the brand’s Marble Arch press showroom for a peek at what’s to come. In a room full of familiar fashion faces who frequently pop-up on my Instagram explore page, we browsed the M&S fashion, beauty and interiors offering.
In the spirit of feel-good fashion, this season’s theme at M&S is ‘Love That’, marking a step change in season with a bold and stylish statement. The retailer is focused on spreading joy through style, and encouraging customers to embrace the uplifting energy that comes with spring and the start of summer, kickstarting the warmer seasons with a chain reaction of compliments.
The mood for the Spring Summer season at M&S is easy and breezy, with airy, light fabrics and comfortable silhouettes, perfect for every occasion. If leopard was the print of 2024, polka dots look to be a strong contender for 2025. A hero piece in the spring collection is the black and white strapless polka dot print dress with a flattering ruched bodice and long flowing skirt. It’s a contemporary spin on a 1980s prom dress, and would be perfect for summer weddings, christenings and garden parties.
There’s also a playful polka dot mini which was styled with a smart collarless denim jacket with shiny gold buttons on the mannequin – a put together outfit which felt like it was straight out of the Amandaland costume department.
If there’s one trend I’m delighted to see M&S backing, it’s the co-ord. Because there is no greater wardrobe investment for the time poor: co-ords offer the ultimate grab and go outfit. Gratefully, M&S have a two piece set for every occasion: including a beautiful appliqued black jacket and mini skirt co-ord for summer gatherings, a delicate broderie co-ord to sling in your suitcase, and a gorgeous silver sequin embellished tie front waistcoat and mini co-ord that’s made for a summer of Ibiza trips and festival fun. Not only are sets an easy way to get dressed, they’re also economical, offering mix and match outfit possibilities that dresses cannot.
Whilst we loved browsing the fashion offering, we can’t review the press day without a mention of the brilliant beauty brands now available at M&S. From cult hair brand Colour Wow, to cool Brit fragrance brand Floral Street, to beauty powerhouse Clinique, some of the best names can now be found all under one roof at M&S. It’s no wonder the beauty advent calendar sells out every November as beauty addicts clamour to get their hands on 25 minis from some of their favourite brands.
Then there’s M&S homeware, which is going from strength to strength. September 2024 saw interior design icon Kelly Hoppen launch her first collaboration with the retailer, which offers her signature luxurious and neutral aesthetic at high street prices. If you’re a fan of calming colour palettes and neutral lines, check this collection out – I can’t get over how expensive the £9.50 Half Moon Vase looks. And if maximalism is more your thing, elsewhere at M&S home there’s whimsical striped lampshades, gorgeous brightly coloured linen sheets and jewel-toned glassware for summer gatherings.
We left the press day with a long wishlist, and plenty of inspiration for the season ahead. The Spring Summer season at M&S looks bright and optimistic in more ways than one – long may it continue.
