Us Who What Wear UK editors have quite a few things in common— and one is our shared love of Marks and Spencer. Of course, we all have our own different personal styles, but we’re 100% united on how great M&S’s wardrobe staples are. They're the kind of pieces you know you're going to wear over and over again for years to come so the fact that you can rely on the quality as well as the design is key, with an affordable price tag to boot.
From cashmere to pretty lingerie, and all the classics in between, each of us has at least one favourite thing we turn to M&S for, and I think I may have just found my newest crush. I’d heard about how great the high street hero’s linen pieces were on the grapevine, but in order to report back in earnest I wanted to try them out for myself. Put it this way— I wasn’t disappointed. As a minimalist with classic taste I wear linen a lot in summer, and I have pieces from across the price spectrum— but honestly M&S’s pieces matched the best of them, and I wanted to add them all to my summer rotation immediately.
From classic shirting (there are standard and oversized options) to perfect wide-leg trousers, easy shorts and throw-on dresses, this edit is basically a shortcut to looking chic in the heat.
Keep scrolling to find out about the pieces I loved the most along with tips on fit in case you're thinking of joining the M&S linen fan club with me.
SHOP MARKS & SPENCER'S 2024 LINEN COLLECTION:
1. Linen Waistcoat + Tailored Linen Trousers
Style Notes: Whether heading to the office or al fresco drinks, a sleek tailored pairing is one to keep in mind this summer. The shade of this set is seriously good, and can be worn together, or separated for various outfit options.
Waistcoat size 10, trousers size 12 Regular.
Imagine this with a white floaty skirt.
As a straighter fit, I tend to size up for a looser look.
2. Linen Shirt + Linen Shorts
Style Notes: A shirt and shorts combo is a classic pairing, and the linen finish just adds to the ease appeal. The embroidery adds a nod to boho styles that are coming to the fore this summer, whilst the tailoring of the shorts adds a put together feel.
Shirt size 10 Regular, Shorts size 10.
If you find yourself reaching to a white linen shirt on repeat, why not add this playful embroidered style into the mix.
Featuring tailoring in the front and comfortable elastic in the back.
3. Loose Linen Dress
Style Notes: From the hottest days of the year to throwing over a bikini on holiday, a loose linen dress will definitely come in handy. This one features a pretty tie detail at the back, and even has pockets!
Dress size 8 Regular.
At only 5'2" I often look to M&S's brilliant petite styles, but I love that the Regular length adds a maxi feel to this dress.
4. Short Sleeve Linen Shirt + Linen Trousers
Style Notes: Whilst there are some playful bold hues around, M&S has perfected reliable neutral shades. This light beige shirt can be paired with tailoring or denim, or even worn over a bikini. Finding a pair of white linen trousers that aren't see-through is a tough task, but M&S has excelled with this pair.
Shirt size 10, Trousers size 10 Short.
A piece you'll rely upon year after year.
This pair came home with me.
5. Striped Linen Dress
There's no denying that M&S's dress collection is seriously strong right now, and this dress proves it. Featuring a sleek criss-cross back, the fitted top leads into a full skirt and perfectly takes on the pretty trend that's reigning this summer.
Size: 10 regular
Fit: True to size
Care Instructions: Wash at 40°C delicate
Just add sandals and a basket bag.
6. Linen Maxi Skirt
Style Notes: When we talk about linen tailoring, it often leads to trousers or shorts, but M&S has taken it one step further with this chic tailored skirt. Featuring airy side slits, this smart addition can be dressed up or down with ease.
Skirt size 10 Regular.
This one won't stick around for long.
SHOP MORE M&S LINEN BUYS:
With the unpredictable British weather, a linen blazer is a smart purchase.
Just throw on and go.
Black tailored shorts feature in so many of my summer outfits.
The intricate lace details add a bohemian edge to this classic shirt.
Inject some joy into your wardrobe with this playful shade.
Opt for a cropped trouser and show off your favourite summer sandals.
Easy and sophisticated.
I'm very into this pairing of light and dark blues.
A work-ready addition to your summer wardrobe.
We're already seeing fashion people swapping in their longer shorts on warm days.
A standout shade.
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