The Who What Wear UK team’s love for Marks and Spencer is no secret. From beautiful lingerie to wardrobe staples that last forever — we genuinely don’t know what we’d do without the dependable high street hero in our lives. Our wardrobes would certainly be worse off.
There are, however, some secrets to getting the best out of M&S. These include things like knowing which of their in-house brands to filter down to (Autograph is usually our fave for expensive-looking items), and which classics in particular to make a beeline for (the denim and cashmere are especially good). But there’s also a skill in pinpointing those cult pieces before everyone else does—because when something great drops at M&S, you can be sure it’s going to sell out faster than you can say ‘percy pig’.
As editors we try to stay on top of these by browsing Instagram and, of course, the new-in section regularly— but the true experts in knowing the best pieces to buy from M&S are their insiders. These women live and breathe M&S, and not only have great taste— but they get the down-low straight from the brand on the next big things before anyone else. So, of course, I had to track them down to see what insider insights I could get on the brand new summer collection.
If you don’t follow M&S experts Sam Briones and Nicola Dougan on Instagram already, you’re going to want to do so now. Below, they’ve kindly revealed to me (and you) the new-in summer pieces we're going to want to buy while we still can. From perfect, easy dresses to classic sandals— keep scrolling for their top tips…
Sam Briones
Sam is 5’2 and a size UK 8, meaning if you're petite, you'll be incredibly thankful for her outfit pics and sizing tips to see how things actually fit at M&S. Her top summer tips for shopping at M&S? Opt for comfort, colour and pattern, mixed in with the classics: "Summer to me is all about comfort and bright colours— and M&S has so many great dresses that tick both boxes this season. I always try to balance patterns or brights with their classic pared-back accessories, though, like a simple chunky black sandal or basket bag. I'm also really loving M&S's shirt dresses at the moment— as unbuttoned they double up as a light layer to throw on over separates or swimwear."
SHOP SAM'S SUMMER PICKS:
"A chic pure linen shirt that’s a breeze to wear during warmer days."
"A dainty tea dress that could be worn with heels or trainers."
"This is such a vibrant and adventurous airy dress that’s great for any heatwave."
"Add a touch of luxe with these Autograph sandals. Comfortable to wear and perfect for any Summer wardrobe."
"A bold relaxed fit dress that can be dressed up or down. You could add a belt to highlight the waist line."
"Make a statement with this cute patterned shirt dress. Green and pink always makes a great colour combination."
"Wide fit jeans are perfect for a relaxed weekend vibe. These come in 8 colours that will see you all the way through the Summer months."
"An easy to wear layering piece that’s lightweight for cool Summer nights."
"This would be ideal to wear with any denim in summer."
"Every Summer wardrobe needs a reliable pair of denim shorts. These are a slightly looser boyfriend fit."
Nicola Dougan
"So, things to know about me… I am a HUGE dress fan"— us too Nicola, us too. If you're always spotting great dresses at M&S but finding they're sold out because everyone else got there first, you need Nicola's insider Insta feed in your life. She continues, "I'm always drawn to M&S's easy dresses that flatter everyone— I just love how they can be thrown on and look instantly put together. Plus, they can be dressed up or down depending on your mood." But what else should we keep an eye out for? "Another thing about me is I love all things animal print— zebra is in demand this season and makes a nice change from leopard— which means M&S's printed pieces will be like hotcakes all summer." Thanks Nicola, we owe you one.
SHOP NICOLA'S SUMMER PICKS
"One of my top picks is this blue floral midi tea dress - it flatters everyone and would be the perfect dress for a summer wedding guest paired with either of the heels below. I’ve also worn this with flip flops for a more casual outfit, it’s such a pretty piece!"
"This zebra dress is an absolute must-have in my books. I adore the super o- trend square neckline and puffed sleeves."
"These are the comfiest heels I think I've ever worn— perfect for popping out for cocktails with either of the dress above."
"These are such a chic, comfortable heel option."
"Perfect for more casual affairs in summer."
"Such an easy, throw on dress"
" I just love a bright trouser, and linen is perfect for staying cool in summer"
"I'll be wearing this with white denim."
"A basket bag is a summer wardrobe essential and I love this bright twist on a classic."
"I have this and wear it so much with just a classic denim jacket and sandals."
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