M&S is back! Here are 12 of the season's best pieces to shop online
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So to celebrate M&S's online return – and show the beloved British brand a bit of support – we've rounded up your favourite pieces from our fashion experts' picks over the past few months. From versatile holiday dresses to stylish yet comfortable men's pyjamas, we're glad to have them back.
Polka dot sweetheart neckline maxidress
£79 at M&S
'Marks & Spencer has gone big on the polka dot this season,' said fashion editor Jess Cartner-Morley in her column on spots and stripes. This maxidress would be lovely for holiday dinners out and wouldn't look amiss at a wedding. It also comes in petite, regular or tall. Cartner-Morley suggests wearing it with 'flats instead of wedges, and a slicked-back bun rather than barrel curls, to keep it modern'.
For more, check out spots or stripes? The good news is you no longer have to choose
Men's pure linen shirt
£45 at M&S
For formal occasions during the hotter summer months, linen will be your best friend thanks to its breathable qualities. 'It will even look good without being ironed or steamed (as long as it's not too crumpled),' says stylist and menswear expert Peter Bevan, who cherrypicked this M&S shirt as one of his 50 men's summer wardrobe updates under £100. It comes in 14 different colours, and can be bought in regular or slim fit (Peter recommends sizing up for a more expensive-looking finish).
Knitted round neck midi dress
£39.50 at M&S
Still looking for that perfect holiday dress that can seamlessly go from beach to restaurant? Look no further. 'The hero piece of this season is the main-character-energy beach dress. This is a dress that complements your swimwear, rather than concealing it,' says Cartner-Morley. This chic crochet dress ticks all the boxes.
For more, check out Jess Cartner-Morley on fashion: the beach dress is this summer's must-have
Chanel-style jacket
£69 at M&S
The Chanel-style tweed jacket is a classic for a reason. M&S's take on the timeless style is infinitely wearable and the perfect antidote to chillier summer evenings. 'You could pair it with jeans and metallic ballet pumps for a relaxed, but smart look. But I'd also wear it with wide-leg linen trousers and slingbacks for garden parties,' says styling editor Melanie Wilkinson.
For more, check out the best Chanel-style jackets to rival the real thing
V-neck frill detail midaxi dress
£45 at M&S
Shopping for weddings can be a bit of a nightmare – you fork out all that money on an expensive dress and then wear it only a couple of times a year. Instead, opt for one you can wear all season. This drop-waist dress has a 'relaxed feel and flattering frill neckline [that] will serve you well, from wedding dancefloors to casual dinners and summer lounging,' says fashion writer Ellie Violet Bramley in her roundup of the best wedding guest dresses.
Pure cotton striped boxers
£30 for five at M&S
Another hot tip from Bevan's summer wardrobe updates for men is to channel Paul Mescal's love for short shorts and wear oversized boxers as outerwear. 'I'd suggest sizing up for a roomier fit – and don't forget to wear your underwear beneath to avoid any embarrassing mishaps,' he says. This affordable five-pack comes in a striped pattern that wouldn't be instantly recognisable as boxers.
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Embroidered relaxed shirt
£59 at M&S
This embroidered shirt will serve you well across the whole summer, whether for a coffee date or a relaxed fit for the office (providing you wear something underneath to spare your colleagues' blushes). There's also a matching pair of trousers, if you fancy it.
Pure cotton halter neck midaxi dress
£39.50 at M&S
As soon as I get slightly bronzed, I can't help but want to wear red – no colour better complements a tan. This tomato red dress from Cartner-Morley's May style essentials comes in a flattering fit and flare style, ideal for exploring cobbled streets on a city break or enjoying a cocktail on the beachfront.
Rubberised waterproof backpack
£50 at M&S
Whether you're hitting the beach or heading out for a hike, this handy backpack can carry all of your day-trip essentials. It's waterproof, too, so it will keep everything dry even on drizzly days.
Cotton blend T-shirt
£18 at M&SStriped pyjama bottoms
£30 at M&S
In need of some new PJs for lazy Sunday mornings? This Autograph pair is 'made from lightweight, breathable fabrics, perfect for the impending summer. They're so smooth [you]'ll never want to take them off,' says Bevan.
For more, check out the best Father's Day gifts: 83 thoughtful ideas for £50 and under they'll actually want
Non-wired sports bra
£28 at M&S
Lighter mornings make pre-work runs so much more appealing. If you're in need of a new sports bra, this non-wired option promises support and comfort, and is made of sweat-wicking material to keep you cool.
For more, check out what to wear for running
Jelly slip-on ballet pumps
£19.50 at M&S
'A jelly shoe is pure holiday nostalgia, but also practical – you can clean them under the tap and drop them in your basket bag,' said Cartner-Morley in her May style essentials. This bright red pair will make a wearable but statement addition to your summer wardrobe.
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