I've Assembled 4 Chic Outfits Using M&S's £9 Ribbed Vest Top

last updated 2 May 2024

I'm a person of pretty straightforward wants and needs. I like baking on the weekend, talking my dogs to the beach and generally living the simple life. This ethos also extends to my wardrobe, which I have actively refined to a collection of hardworking basics over the years, many of which I seem to snap up from one particular high-street shop.

In my opinion, Marks & Spencer does affordable basics better than anywhere else, especially when it comes to its jersey selection. I've been wearing its t-shirts and tops for years, and although I wouldn't expect to receive compliments on such items, I always do. They're cut well, they wash well and they wear well, so I very rarely have to add to my rotation.

marks-spencer-ribbed-vest-top-308535-1690455290896-main

Recently, however, after years of wear, I decided it was time to update the handful of M&S ribbed vest tops I already own. Opening the fresh new white and black styles I'd ordered, it struck me just how much wear I actually get out of these simple items. In fact, when I think about it, I wear an M&S vest almost every day in spring and summer.

I rely on my £9 M&S ribbed vests so heavily, but it never occurred to me to proclaim my love for them on such a public forum. Now though, that time has come. Below, I've whipped up four outfits to show you just how worthwhile an investment this vest is. Like what you see? Everything else below is from M&S too, so you can add to basket with ease. Don't say I'm not good to you.

Shop M&S's Ribbed Vest Top:

M&S Collection

Cotton Rich Ribbed Slim Fit Vest Top in White

This vest top comes in so many colours, though I find the white to be most useful.

… And Ribbed Vest Outfits:

1. Tailored Trousers + Sleek Accessories

marks-spencer-ribbed-vest-top-308535-1690454835412-image

Style Notes: For work or weekend, a simple outfit composed of a vest top and tailored trousers is something I always come back to.

Shop the Look:

M&S Collection

Cotton Blend Textured Crew Neck Cardigan

This will make every outfit you wear look polished.

M&S Collection

Cotton Rich Ribbed Slim Fit Vest Top

The scoop neckline works with any outfit.

M&S Collection

Faux Leather Cross Body Bag

Our editors agree—this is the most expensive-looking handbag on the high street right now.

M&S Collection

Pleat Front Relaxed Wide Leg Trousers

These went straight into my basket.

M&S Collection

Leather Bow Ballet Pumps

I own these ballet flats and they're easily the comfiest shoes in my collection.

marks-spencer-ribbed-vest-top-308535-1690454837895-image

Style Notes: Double denim was a major look on the autumn runways this season, and its one you can re-create affordably. Give it '90s appeal with a white vest and black shoes.

Shop the Look:

M&S Collection

V-Neck Jumper

This has a lovely relaxed fit, so no need to size up.

M&S Collection

Cotton Rich Ribbed Slim Fit Vest Top

I love the fact that the straps cover that of my most supportive bra.

M&S Collection

Leather Jean Belt

Such a great price for a real leather belt.

Per Una

Denim Split Back Maxi Skirt

The perfect denim skirt does exist.

M&S Collection

Buckle Flat Square Toe Ballet Pumps

Between the shiny leather finish and the square toe, these mary janes look so high-end.

3. Slip Skirt + Top-Handle Bag

marks-spencer-ribbed-vest-top-308535-1690454836975-image

Style Notes: For evenings out I like to keep my looks low-key, and a simple vest top styled with a slip skirt helps me do just that.

Shop the Look:

M&S Collection

Cotton Rich Ribbed Slim Fit Vest Top

Proof this staple can be dressed up or down.

M&S Collection

14ct Gold Plated Hoop Earrings

Gold earrings are my go-to after-dark accessory.

M&S Collection

Faux Leather Top Handle Tote Bag

This elegant bag will earn you so many compliments.

M&S Collection

Lyocell Blend Maxi Slip Skirt

Just so pretty.

M&S Collection

Leather Buckle Kitten Heel Slingbacks

These have a padded sole for extra comfort.

4. Linen Shirt + Shorts

marks-spencer-ribbed-vest-top-308535-1690454839296-image

Style Notes: Layering always makes an outfit look more interesting, and this vest loans itself to a myriad of pairings. My favourite? A breezy linen shirt.

Shop the Look:

M&S Collection

Pure Linen Striped Relaxed Shirt

Another M&S basic I can't find fault with.

M&S Collection

Cotton Rich Ribbed Slim Fit Vest Top

This vest is still thick enough to wear on its own.

Autograph

Straw Bucket Bag

A very cute take on a bucket bag.

M&S Collection

Linen Blend High Waisted Pleat Front Shorts

I'll be wearing these all season long.

M&S Collection

Leather Flat Loafers

M&S's summer sandals are here, and they're exceptional.

Explore More:

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.

Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.

Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.