Now that we're in March, we're finally within sniffing distance of spring. Though the season officially starts toward the end of the month (the 20th, to be exact), I’ve finally gotten the itch for a wardrobe refresh, to swap out my thicker knitwear and muted winter staples in favour of something fashion-forward, airier, and altogether brighter for the months ahead.
Naturally, my first port of call for a rotation revitalisation is Marks & Spencer, the high-street hero that nails style without making me reconsider my monthly budget. There is nothing quite as sartorially satisfying as knowing you can look good without completely draining your bank account.
Thus began my search for the best pieces from the brand’s spring collection. As soon as I set foot in my local M&S, my eyes were immediately caught by some of the most stylish pieces that I know would boost my mood and your wardrobe credibility this season. Here are the 5 key pieces I’m keeping - and that I think you should snap up too.
The Palazzo Jeans
M&S High Waisted Pleated Palazzo Jeans
I can't deny it, I'm a huge sucker for a classic pair of wide-leg jeans, but the High-Waisted Pleated Palazzo Jeans are some of the best baggier jeans out there. I know we are currently on the hunt for thinner cigarette and straight-leg styles, but there is something especially chic about an oversized pair of jeans when paired with a tighter-fitting top. The best part? The pleated detailing on these jeans adds Savile Row charm and an elevated touch to any outfit formula.
The Polka Dot Blouse
M&S Linen Rich Patterned Shirred Blouse
Polka dots are a no-brainer when it comes to spring patterns, just ask the Princess of Wales. But if you would rather wait for summer to snap up a dotty dress à la Kate, look to M&S’s Linen Rich Polka Dot Shirred Blouse instead. For SS26, shirred detailing on tops and frocks is dominating the high street, and this spotted number crafted from cool linen is an excellent choice that you will wear well into the summer months.
The Barrel Leg Trousers
M&S Pure Cotton Barrel Leg Trousers
These chino-style trousers are a spring style essential, especially in biscuit brown, a favourite hue here at Good Housekeeping. Complete with a slim self-tie belt that can be knotted in a bow for a feminine touch, the Pure Cotton Barrel-Leg Trousers are incredibly comfortable thanks to their casual fit, while the pleats and belt loops keep them looking chic.
The Utility Jacket
M&S Collarless Utility Jacket With Linen
Another linen edition, M&S’s Collarless Utility Jacket With Linen is the lightweight staple set to transform your wardrobe, and all for a mere £55. Of course, like any M&S staple, there is more to this jacket than meets the eye. Its unique drawstring waistband draws inspiration from the blouson, reminiscent of the airy staples associated with boho designer brand Chloé.
The Striped Skirt and Shirt Co-Ord
M&S Striped Midaxi Circle Skirt With Cotton
Shop the matching shirt here.
If you want something slightly more pared back this season, look to this airy shirt-and-skirt matching set. The best part is that you can mix and match each piece with other staples in your wardrobe, such as straight-leg jeans with the shirt or a boxy white tee tucked into the skirt. Perfect for day-to-day errands, this two-piece will give you plenty of outfit formulas that will last through to the end of summer.
