M&S has quickly emerged as the saviour of my autumn/winter wardrobe, mastering the art of elevated basics, the perfect jeans that fit like a glove and designer collaborations that sell out faster than you click add to basket. While Sienna Miller x M&S was the solution to summer dressing, M&S x Bella Freud is the latest collaboration the high street retailer has produced to tackle all of our autumnal dressing woes, in the form of Bella Freud's fun, quirky knitwear - but for significantly less.
Known for slogan sweaters that deliver fun, style and warmth in equal measure, worn by the likes of Kate Moss and Alexa Chung, Bella Freud has taken on the high street with a collaboration that will inject colour - and wittiness - into your autumn/winter wardrobe. From slogan wool-blend jumpers available in bold reds as well as easy-to-wear neutrals, sophisticated separates (most notably the pinstripe suit that Freud claims is her favourite piece) and 100% silk tie-neck shirts, the collection is exceedingly wearable but still super-chic.
The first piece guaranteed to sell out? The Blue Sky jumper, which looks just like Freud's mainline collection but is priced at just £49.50.
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This affordable take on Freud's classic design will no doubt fly off the shelves. Wear yours under an oversized blazer with jeans and boots.
As I tried on every single piece in the collection I was in awe of the high quality, despite the affordable prices. What's more, the fit of everything was spot-on, a testament to the craftsmanship behind the clothes. When it comes to highlights, I have to give a special mention to the Black Roll Neck Divine Feminine Cashmere Jumper thanks to its incredibly soft feel, flattering cut and sheer versatility. Next up was the Pinstripe Blazer and Trousers, which you can wear together as the ultimate power suit, or dress down separately with jeans or a jumper and, finally, the Honey jumper. Something about the caramel hue, combined with the black typography made me quickly obsessed and never want to take it off. Plus, you can wear it with literally everything - from tailored trousers for a preppy look, to slouchy jeans for an effortless vibe.
Speaking of the collection, Freud says ‘The standout piece for me is the suit. I wanted to create a capsule of interchangeable pieces that work for any occasion. If you have a suit, you’re always set. I’m thrilled we included both trouser and miniskirt options to pair with the suit jacket. The miniskirt addition feels so right for now,’ said Bella, when recently asked about her collab with M&S.'
The full 27-piece collection is available now at M&S.com and in 30 selected stores, across the UK. Prices start at £15 for the Divine Feminine and Nature Bags to £139 for the Divine Feminine Cashmere Jumper.
Shop: The Best Pieces From M&S x Bella Freud
The Honey jumper
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A collection standout, the Honey jumper is lightweight, fits like a glove and exudes an effortlessness that's hard to describe. I styled it with the Dark Denim Jeans for the ultimate cosy but casual vibe, but the jumper is equally as wearable with a crisp white shirt layered underneath and tailored trousers for a preppy flair.
The red jumper
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Red jumpers have a special place in my heart, and this Merino-wool blend felt so luxurious against my skin - not to mention cosy. It's the perfect shade of red, and the slogan adds an extra cool-factor.
Divine Feminine jumper
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The cashmere roll-neck was arguably one of my favourite items in the collection. It's warm, versatile, and so comfortable, you almost feel like you're in pyjamas. Style with jeans for a pared-back vibe, or the M&S pinstripe trousers for something slightly more formal.
The sweater vest
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Sweater vest season is upon us, and this striped sweater vest from M&S x Bella Freud is everything. Layer a white shirt underneath for the office, or your favourite crisp white tee.
The silk shirt
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Another collection standout, the white silk shirt (also available in blue) was designed in honour of Bella Freud's love of school uniforms. Lean into the formalwear with a pair of trousers and brogues, or wear down with jeans and your favourite boots.
The navy jumper
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The same jumper, this time in navy if you're looking for something slightly more versatile.
The pinstripe blazer
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Freud's favourite of the collection, the pinstripe blazer fit like a glove, with a close-cut fit which is flattering and easy to style. As a lover of dressing down, I styled the blazer with my favourite slouchy jeans, but for the full 'power suit' effect, team with the matching pinstripe trousers.
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The beige v-neck jumper
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A knitwear piece I know i'll wear the life out of this winter, I particularly loved the yellow and black striped accents for a slight twist on the classic cream knit.
The perfect denim jeans
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When I say I've never tried on a better fitting pair of jeans, I mean it. The slightly wide-leg cut was incredibly flattering, and I particularly enjoyed how comfy these were. Comfortable jeans?! Miracles do happen
Marina Avraam is the deputy commercial content editor for Grazia. Hobbies include (but not limited to) finding the best designer dupes, buying every iteration of the adidas gazelles and listening to celeb podcasts every hour of every day.