25 of The Best Marks and Spencer Workwear Buys

last updated 16 February 2023

It’s the first week of January, which means many of us are mentally and sartorially preparing to head back into the office. That’s right, in addition to pulling ourselves out of the Christmas switch-off, we also have to start the transition from wearing festive PJs and super-soft loungewear 24/7 to donning office-appropriate attire.

The new year is all about fresh starts, so you might find yourself wading through your tired workwear wardrobe and feeling the urge to add some newness into the mix. Luckily, you don’t have to splurge to change things up, or update your workwear capsule wardrobe, because I’ve identified an affordable brand that’s covered all the bases.

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M&S insider Sam Briones wears a double-breasted blazer, white tapered trousers and black loafers from the high-street brand.

I won't lie—I largely overlooked Marks and Spencer until quite recently. It took a few nudges from friends (who mainly recommended its denim offering) for me to finally realise the value in M&S’ fuss-free, timeless and well-made clothing. And these qualities are especially crucial if you're seeking smart pieces and quality tailoring without an intimidating price tag attached.

For work, you want your outfit to be smart, practical and professional, and M&S ticks all of these boxes. Plus, the high street hero isn’t afraid to back the trends, so if you’re someone who likes bringing their fashion sense into the office, you’ll be well taken care of.

But don't take my word for it; keep scrolling to see and shop our edit of versatile workwear pieces you can start wearing tomorrow.

SHOP MARKS AND SPENCER WORKWEAR:

M&S Collection

Checked Knee Length Shirt Dress

A shirt dress is the easiest all-in-one option for the office, and it looks put-together every time.

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Cotton Rich Collared Long Sleeve Shirt

I think we can all agree that a classic white shirt is a no-brainer.

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Recycled Blend Cable Knit Knitted Vest

For chilly mornings at your desk, this cable-knit vest will be your best friend.

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Jersey Relaxed Blazer Jacket

Dress down suiting by styling a simple white tee underneath.

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Jersey Tapered Ankle Grazer Trousers

You can also mix and match and wear these separates with the other items in this capsule.

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Leather Flat Loafers

Once you break these leather loafers in, you'll never want to take them off.

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Polka Dot V-Neck Frill Detail Blouse

Between the ruffles and those dreamy sleeves, you can let this blouse be the focus of your outfit.

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Jersey Flared Trousers

Jersey is comfy enough to wear all day long.

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Gold Tone T-Bar Pave Chain Necklace

This minimal necklace will complement every ensemble.

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Tweed Relaxed Textured Blazer

I added this to my basket the moment I saw it.

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Faux Leather Shoulder Bag

Pack your lunch, tablet and a book for the commute in this roomy tote.

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Cotton Rich Funnel Neck Long Sleeve Top

Every capsule wardrobe needs its foundation pieces.

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Straight Leg Trousers With Stretch

For those mornings when you don't feel like wearing black.

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Leather Chain Detail Block Heel Loafers

Don't be afraid to show your personality at work, especially if it means rocking this jazzy loafer.

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Tailored Double Breasted Blazer

You can chuck this blazer on over every top and dress in this edit.

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Gold Tone Hoops

The perfect finishing touch.

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Animal Print Round Neck Midi Column Dress

Glide straight from the office to Friday night drinks in this versatile dress.

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Ribbed Collared Cardigan

Wear it buttoned up as a top or layered over a dress.

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Jersey Ribbed Maxi Pencil Skirt

Don't force yourself into a restrictive pencil skirt; opt for this stretchy version instead. Same sleek effect, double the comfort.

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Wide Fit Block Heel Square Toe Shoes

The perfect-height heel for everyday wear.

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Cotton Rich Funnel Neck Long Sleeve Top

M&S makes really great basics.

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Striped Pleated Midi Skirt

This monochrome skirt will go with every colour in your wardrobe.

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Leather Shoulder Bag

Show off your fashion credentials with this designer-looking handbag.

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Pure Tencel™ Collared Long Sleeve Shirt

Inject some subtle colour into your workwear capsule with this sage green button-down.

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3pk 40 Denier Body Sensor™ Tights

Of course, you'll need a few pairs of opaque tights in your rotation.

Next Up: I Just Tried On M&S's Best-Selling Jeans, and I'm Officially a Convert

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Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at print and digital publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed & Confused and Indie magazine.

A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor to Who What Wear, Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.

In her spare time, Bébhinn enjoys perusing Edinburgh’s best vintage shops, working through her out-of-control book collection and watching dog reels on Instagram.