25 Expensive-Looking Marks and Spencer Basics For Summer

last updated 19 July 2023

I'll be the first to admit that for a long time, my perception of Marks and Spencer was quite rigid. It felt like a favourite rom-com that I knew I could rely on to meet certain needs (ie. comfort and familiarity), but it wouldn't necessarily deliver the excitement of, say, a thrilling true-crime flick. Over the past couple of years, though, the high-street hero has redefined itself as a brand with its finger on the pulse—no longer merely an underwear and premium snack destination. This summer alone has seen M&S back a long list of talked-about trends, from fisherman sandals to elevated cargos.

The whole Who What Wear team has been blown away by the expensive-looking styles on offer, but often, it's the quieter pieces that impress us the most. That's why in the course of Marks & Spencer's evolution, our love of the brand's basics has never wavered.

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Monikh wears a white vest top and beige cargo pants from Marks and Spencer.

The most recent collection is no exception, and my personal M&S wish list seems to grow by the day. In addition to striking summer dresses and eye-catching accessories, you can expect everyday essentials such as striped button-downs and leather ballet flats. A keen attention to detail and quality is common across the board, so much so that some of the pieces could probably pass for designer. But fear not, you'll struggle to find an item on the Marks and Spencer site that costs more than £50.

If it sounds too good to be true, just scroll on to see for yourself. Below, you'll find my edit of 25 Marks and Spencer staples that should be on your radar.

1. Tops & T-Shirts

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Cotton Rich Ribbed Slim Fit Vest Top

You can create endless outfits around this foundation piece.

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Pure Cotton Striped Oversized Girlfriend Style Shirt

A striped shirt is an absolute must-have.

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Linen Rich Top

This breezy style will serve you well on hot days.

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Ribbed Scoop Neck Cropped Top

Just add blue jeans and tan accessories for a simple summer look.

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Linen Blend Cami Top

You'll come back to this every summer.

2. Summer Denim

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Denim Boyfriend Shorts

I love the longer length of these shorts—they'll protect you from thigh-chafing.

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Boyfriend Ankle Grazer Jeans

When the sun comes out, swap your blue denim for a bright white alternative.

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Pure Cotton Denim Jacket

The perfect light summer layer.

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Linen Blend High Waisted Wide Leg Jeans

Wide-leg jeans are a huge trend this season, and this pair is more affordable than most.

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Denim Utility Jacket

I'm tempted to add this whole look to my basket.

3. Easy Day Dresses

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Linen Rich Round Neck Midi Shift Dress

Toss this on with some stylish sandals and a basket bag and you're ready to go.

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Cotton Rich Puff Sleeve Midi Tiered Dress

This cotton midi comes in petite, regular and long lengths.

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Pure Cotton Jersey Shirred Midi Dress

You'll be grateful for this one next time we're hit with a heatwave.

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Polka Dot Round Neck Midi Smock Dress

This would look great with heels and sneakers.

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Pure Cotton Broderie Midaxi Tiered Dress

If it features broderie anglaise, it's an instant winner.

4. Everyday Footwear

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Leather Ring Detail Flat Sliders

I predict these slides will sell out soon.

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Leather Bow Ballet Pumps

That's right, our enthusiasm for ballet flats still hasn't wavered.

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Wide Fit Leather Kitten Heel Mules

Nude mules will serve you time and time again.

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Leather Flat Loafers

These will make every outfit feel ten times smarter.

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Buckle Strappy Wedge Sandals

The angled wedge makes these look far more expensive than they are.

5. Shorts & Trousers

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Linen Rich Wide Leg Trousers

Pack this pair in your suitcase next time you go on holiday.

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Linen Blend High Waisted Shorts

Of course, you'll need the matching blazer, too.

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Modal Rich Cargo Wide Leg Trousers

Monikh has given these the stamp of approval, which makes me think they're worth trying out.

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Linen Rich Belted Utility Shorts

I love how flowy these are.

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Pleat Front Relaxed Trousers

If you told me these were over £100, I'd believe you.

Next Up: 6 M&S Linen Pieces That Make Up The Perfect Summer Capsule

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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.