In my time as a fashion journalist - though not exactly decades long - I've seen plenty of summer style trends do the rounds. Some stick around for a long time, think pretty blouses with Peter Pan collars and polka dots in so wrong it's right colour combinations, while others, like jelly flats and capri trousers, may only see the limelight for the next few months.
But despite the ever-changing cycle of fashion fads (some we suggest you think twice about jumping on), there's one summer style staple that remains prevalent in wardrobes everywhere, and that's the humble linen dress. Not exactly awe-inspiring, sure, but a guaranteed crowd pleaser when getting dressed in sticky temperatures proves itself a rather tedious task.
No surprise then, when I saw a rather chic and airy style from M&S, I immediately had to investigate further.
M&S Linen Cotton Blend Ruffle Maxi Dress
While at first glance it might seem like your typical linen maxi, there's much more than meets the eye. Designed in an earthy brown shade that M&S has named Peat (as well as a dark crimson colour), the frock echoes the colour palette championed in hotter countries such as Morocco and Egypt, crafted from classic cool linen fabric.
Featuring ruffle detailing on the neckline and skirt hem - a design technique that adds a modern edge - the dress is the elegant solution to heatwave dressing.
But it's not just its chic, minimalist style that caught my attention, but rather its extensive size range, from 6 to 24 - meaning five sizes are suitable for plus-size figures, a size range sometimes forgotten about when it comes to warm weather dressing.
Shop the red version below
M&S Linen Cotton Blend Ruffle Maxi Dress
