M&S has long been a go-to on the high street for essentials like underwear and workwear, but its fashion offering has gone from strength to strength in recent years. Thanks to womenswear direction from Maddy Evans, the stalwart is a defining figure in British fashion – and recent collaborations with the likes of Bella Freud and 16Arlington have only cemented its sartorial influence.
For spring 2026, the retailer is rivalling the likes of Cos and Mango for stylish transitional staples at affordable price points. From a car coat and woven leather co-ord to an asymmetric-waisted blazer and contrasted detailed shirt, its new-in collection takes catwalk influences and makes them wearable day to day.
Some of this season’s key trends – lace, funnel necks and sportscore – have been incorporated across the collection, which spans elevated evening wear, office staples, weekend style and more. Unsurprisingly, hero pieces have gone viral on Instagram and TikTok – with sizes flying out of stock.
As always, M&S’s spring outerwear and denim range is particularly strong. Its barrel jean remains a bestseller, while newer styles like the wide leg turn up jeans and palazzo jeans put a smart spin on everyday denim. For spring’s in-between weather, structured blazers, linen blend trenches and lightweight bomber jackets provide plenty of layering inspiration.
Reflecting its new high street fashion influence, M&S has just refurbished its Oxford Street store ‘Pantheon’ into a shiny shopping oasis, which customers have compared to Zara. In a bid to build my dream capsule wardrobe for spring 2026, I ventured there on my lunch break to see what M&S has to offer this season.
After trying on more than 15 pieces, I found that the denim, outerwear and co-ords were among the best pieces this season, while the dresses, knitwear and blazers didn’t fit as nicely, or have the same star power. Highlights included a £15 pair of Adidas-inspired sport shorts, off-white Bermuda shorts, a white maxi skirt and a denim co-ord. Shop my favourite pieces below.
Read more: Molly Mae’s Adidas line includes new samba and superstar trainers – here’s where to shop
M&S faux leather bomber jacket
An elevated take on outerwear, this spring-ready bomber jacket is beautifully lightweight with a smooth, supple faux leather finish. The jacket has has enough weight to create a boxy shape, with the elasticated hem creating a bubble silhouette. The crew neck mirrors the hem, complete with sweet bow detailing.
Buy now £55, Marksandspencer.com
M&S denim shirred maxi skirt
This transitional denim co-ord comprises a shirred maxi skirt and matching blouse. When you don’t know what to wear in the morning, the two-piece is the perfect outfit to throw on and look effortlessly put together. But the seperates are just as versatile when styled individually, whether you pair the skirt with a simple white T-shirt and ballet flats, or the blouse with wide leg trousers and heeled boots. The cotton blend fabric is lightweight and soft – take your usual size in each item.
Buy now £46, Marksandspencer.com
M&S tie belted linen blazer
M&S’s tie belt blazer rivals Aligne and The Frankie Shop with its fluid but structured design. The linen-blend fabric is breathable and soft, while the off-white finish slots easily into your wardrobe. Designed with a tie waist to create a flattering silhouette, make sure to take your usual size.
Buy now £60, Marksandspencer.com
M&S cotton rich stripe shorts
Sportscore is everywhere this season, from Simone Rocha x Adidas to the rise of trainer Mary Jane shoes. M&S has tapped into the trend with this pair of sporty, striped red shorts that set you back less than £30. Designed from a cotton-blend jersey material, the shorts are breathable and airy with a slightly oversized cut. I went up one size to wear them low-rise and will be styling them with contrastingly feminine blouses this spring.
Buy now £26, Marksandspencer.com
M&S pleated bermuda shorts
This is the first pair of Bermuda shorts that I’ve met and liked. Being 6ft tall, I’ve never found a pair that look flattering rather than frumpy – but M&S shorts are designed with subtle pleated detailing that creates an A-line silhouette. The length is perfect, falling just above the knee, while the high waist cinches you in. For less than £30, the cotton-blend denim shorts are a steal.
Buy now £28, Marksandspencer.com
M&S white maxi skirt
I’ve already got a white maxi skirt in my wardrobe, but this new M&S style is about to replace it. The style is the perfect ankle grazing length, with a comfortable elasticated waist, expensive pleating detail and a lightweight, floaty fabric. When it comes to styling, the skirt is endlessly versatile – whether paired with a trench coat and trainers, or a vest and flip flops. The skirt isn’t online yet – but is sure to sell out when it drops.
Buy now, Marksandspencer.com
Discover more transitional inspiration with the best spring jackets
