The Sell-Out M&S Vinyl Coat Alexa Chung Wore In 2016 Is Back

If I cast my mind back to 2016, I was a fashion writer relatively new to living in London, and I remember an exciting email landing in my inbox. It was from Marks & Spencer, inviting me to the launch of Archive by Alexa. It was at this moment that I pinched myself, considering Alexa Chung has, and probably always will be, an iconic British fashion icon, whom I had loved for years. Attending the event, Alexa herself was there, serving members of the fashion industry who were eager to snap up her new collection with the high street hero. I got the white ruffle collar blouse (you probably remember the one), but it was the khaki green trench coat with checked cuffs that was the true hero item. Rebecca Holman – Grazia’s digital director – loved the style so much, she even bought it twice! The entire collection was so popular, Alexa soon had a second collection, and this is where the vinyl coat every fashion person owned throughout 2016-17 was born. And of course, Alexa was first to be spotted wearing the high-shine car coat during London Fashion Week, as well as wearing the matching patent mini skirt.

It's not the first time Alexa has worn an M&S skirt. Back in 2015, she wore anAutograph suede midi style that quickly gained an 800-person wait list to get it. It’s fair to say, Marks & Spencer's pieces make memories. And although M&S is over 130 years old, the Autograph edit is celebrating its 25th birthday this year. How? With a 48-piece edit for autumn/winter 2025, inspired by some of the most iconic pieces throughout the years. And yes, it includes that sell-out vinyl coat.

Shop: Autograph Vinyl Coat

So what can you expect from the new Autograph collection? Great things. And for me, once again the outerwear is the standout. Faux fur was all over the autumn/winter 2025 runways at the likes of Fendi, Gucci and Altuzarra, and there's a cream fuzzy coat (below) that I'm backing for the season ahead. This, along with tailored versions in timeless pinstripe and heritage checks. There's pretty much something for everyone.

Shop: Autograph Coats

And if you're not ready to shop for a coat yet – even though I suggest doing so, as the best styles always sell first – there are jackets that are gaining my attention, too. Particularly, this snake print leather style (with matching trousers) that I'm sure will be as popular as the Alexa Chung vinyl style back in 2016. Although not online just yet, Marks & Spencer has assured us it'll be dropping very soon.

While I could wax lyrical about the coats and jackets in the new Autograph drop, the whole collection is worth shouting about. Focusing on elevated staples that have taken inspiration from pieces in the British brand's archives, there's everything from cashmere knits and leather dresses tosuede bags. Basically, everything you need for the season ahead is in one ready-to-shop collection. I've already got the snake jacket, bowler bag and the bomber firmly in my basket.

Shop: More Autograph At M&S Collection

Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor and stylist, contributing to many titles including Vogue, Stylist, Glamour, Who What Wear and of course, Grazia. Always finding high street buys that look expensive, and the designer items to elevate them further, she’s constantly on the lookout for lesser-known brands and mini street style trends. This, and searching for her next holiday destination where she’ll be showing them off on Instagram at @harriet.davey, along with travel tips on TikTok @harriet.davey.