Summer dresses remain a staple of the sunny season – they make life a bit easier (a ready-to-go outfit which requires no fuss) and are particularly good in hot weather. M&S dresses are particularly good this year – the brand's white cami dress sold out almost immediately after launch. Now, there's a new contender for best summer style and it's this M&S leopard print dress.
It's not often I feel the need to immediately run to the closest M&S to locate a dress that I think will answer all of my summer dress prayers but when I spotted the Chiffon Printed V-Beck Midi Dress, £45 on the website, I became a bit obsessed.
Leopard is the unexpected print of the summer and, to me, it feels much cooler than florals right now. The dress itself features a flattering V-neckline, cap sleeves and a floaty tiered hem. If you've had your eyes on the viral Rat & Boa Lucille Dress that fleetingly comes in and out of stock, you may notice slight similarities between the two designs – but you will also notice the £150 price difference.
Another brilliant thing about the M&S leopard print dress is just how versatile it is. For a relaxed daytime look, combine with Birkenstocks, a raffia tote and a chunky bangle like the one you used to own back in 2006. If you're hoping to wear your new M&S dress to a wedding, party, or night out, opt for silver or black heels, as well as a sleek clutch bag (currently enjoying a renaissance).
Shop: The Marks & Spencer Chiffon Printed Dress
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
It looks far more expensive than £45, which is a great investment considering how timeless the shape and print of this dress is. Dress down with trainers for an easy weekend outfit or pair with heels and add gold jewellery for weddings and more dressed-up events.
More M&S Dresses Worth Buying:
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
If one dress isn't enough leopard print for you, M&S also has a second printed dress in a slightly different style. This design has as tiered midaxi length skirt, short puff sleeves and a slim ribbon tie. This one is slightly more casual, and would look great for the daytime with a pair of chunky sandals or trainers.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
For another floaty dress with feminine ruffles, this figure-flattering dress with a playful polka dot design is a good choice. Much like the chiffon dress, it comes fully lined for comfort and modesty, and will stand the test of time thanks to its monochrome print.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
A great option for any upcoming functions and parties you might have on the agenda, M&S have mastered the day-to-night outfit. For day events, style this dress with a pair of sandals or Birkenstocks. Meanwhile for the evening, add some silver-toned jewellery and red kitten heels for a more polished look.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Tea dresses are a great option for the warmer months when dressing appropriately for the office gets a little tricky. This dress is perfect for that as it features modest details like a midaxi-length hem and sweetheart neckline that doesn't scoop too low.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Ideal for just throwing on over a bikini or for dressing up, this dress from M&S is a holiday packing must. For a relaxed daytime outfit, add a pair of flat sandals and a raffia tote. To dress up this bright blue number, all you'll need is some strappy heels and a white bag.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
If your appetite for all things leopard still isn't cured, M&S has yet another leopard dress to offer. With a trending column shape and a round neckline, this dress is super casual (and office-appropriate), and can also be transformed with a couple of bright accessories.
M&Swww.marksandspencer.com
Another absolute holiday staple is this breezy cami shift dress in a gorgeous beige. The style of this dress is super flattering as it's on the looser side, which means it's super comfortable and still very chic. Plus, the straps are adjustable for a better fit.
Gemma Lavers is a Fashion Writer at Bauer Media, writing for brands like Grazia, heat and Closer. Gemma specialises in all things clothing and enjoys outfit planning (especially for holidays), scrolling social media for the next trend and shopping (probably for a new coat).