The best M&S summer garments, according to a clothing author

It’s hard to believe that M&S attire was once considered homely and conventional. Today, the European brave is the design set’s worst-kept-secret for trend-led items on the high road.

From Alexa Chung posting a picture in her new £20 “rave colors” from M&S ( very much on the Brat child summer moodboard ), to the company’s sell-out collaborations with boho chic poster woman Sienna Miller, its trend giving is going from strength to strength.

Chances are you’ve seen an celebrity or two wearing the company’s man sandals or seeing its Chanel-style clutch carrier on your Instagram feed, but it’s the retailer’s summer dress selection that has been getting TikTok fans talking. M&S gowns are flying off the hangers, from the universally flattering light A-line outfit to the popular alternative ribbon column number.

The retailer is overtaking the likes of Zara and Asos as a go-to for stylish pieces that look much more expensive than their price tag suggests, thanks to the long-lasting quality we all know and love, as well as affordable price points and inclusive length options ( petite, medium, and long ).

I went to my native M&S to try on a lot of summer dresses because these are the best styles to buy online this year, whether you’re heading to warmer climates, looking for the perfect summertime work gown, or enjoying the weather at home. And the best part? They all cost less than £60.

Leopard print may be amazing, but it’s definitely having a huge moment this year. The best summertime evening dress is this M&S take that is Realisation Par-esque. Crafted from light satin for an airy feeling, it’s complete with a little black slip, little flared sleeves, V-neckline and fitted waist for a flattering silhouette. The dress has lovely movement thanks to the floaty hem and tiered hem. With strappy black kitten heels and gold jewelry, keep the accessories simple.

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This kind of dress is universally flattering. The black dress has a timeless feel thanks to its shirred, fitted bodice, square neckline, and midaxi length, and its sequin embellishments keep it that way all day. It’s constructed of cotton and has a nice, crisp structure while being breathable.

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This one-shoulder midi dress is effortlessly elegant. Made from breathable pure cotton, it boasts a comfortable, regular fit with shirred at the waist creating a flattering silhouette. The one-shoulder body adds to the classic feel while the midi-length skirt adds contemporary detail. With a rattan bag and fisherman sandals, you can get the perfect city break look.

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This M&S dress, which has puff sleeves, a square neckline, and ties fastening, leans into the milkmaid trend with a lightweight mini that can be worn over your bikini on vacation. The gathered waistline gives comfort a priority while the regular fit gives a feminine silhouette. Playful and easily-styled, it’s a steal at under £30.

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Polka dots are everywhere this summer, and they’re not just for Wimbledon or Ascot. A midi that can be dressed up or down, M&S’s style features a 1920’s style column fit, V-neckline and ruffle detailing. Lined with a white slip, it boasts a sweeping maxi length. It appears much more luxurious than its price suggests, whether worn for formal wear or for a dinner party.

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Summer 2024 is the year of the year, and this M&S version will add some dopamine to your wardrobe. The midi frock is distinguished by its waist definition, crew neck and puff sleeves, but the pièce de résistance is the cut out back and adjustable bow adornment. With trainers or ballet flats for a joy-inducing look, it’s enough coverage to become a summer workwear staple.

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A simple dress with contemporary details, M&S’s sub-£30 maxi number is crafted from breathable pure cotton. The one-shoulder design, which is finished in a striking green or red hue as well as black for more minimalist dressers, elevates the style, adding the final flourish to the twist detail.

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For more warm weather inspiration, we’ve rounded up the best summer dresses for 2024