I've got the end-of-summer-but-not-quite-into-autumn wardrobe refresh itch. You're probably familiar with the one (is this a common thing?) It usually kicks in the moment the temperatures start to get into the twenties, and heatwaves are classed as impending (we're Brits after all), and you realise that anything that isn't breathable, breezy or linen isn't going to cut it anymore. Your favourite pair of jeans starts to feel heavy, and that once-beloved blazer has been banished to the back of the wardrobe for another season. It's almost as if the season itself is nudging us to swap out all the cosy layers for something far lighter (although every day we are getting closer to the start of autumn). Add to that floaty midi dresses and crisp tank tops, and you essentially have the latest collection that's landed in store by Marks & Spencer.
As a fashion writer, I spend the majority of my time looking at clothes, making it all the more exciting when a new collection and/or season arrives. And, while I love a little online browse, nothing beats seeing clothes in real life, trying things on to find the right fit, or spotting things that I might have otherwise scrolled past. The first versatile gem I've selected from the new-in page? The Checked Midi Waisted Dress is a good dress to see out the end of summer, with its drop waist and checked pattern.


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Gingham dresses have been a massive trend this summer, and it looks like they are not slowing down as we head into the transitional season. This one from M&S is particularly good, with a flattering drop waist and tie detailing.
Of course, considering how popular polka dot prints have been this year, it wouldn't feel right not to include something of said print. The Lyocell Rich Polka Dot Ruffle Midaxi Skirt is one to add to your basket fast (sizes are predictably selling out). I can't tell you how much I loved this skirt on, it's everything I'd want from a swishy number, and it has a flattering elasticated waist, which is always a bonus.


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Polka dots have been a defining print this summer, and this skirt is the epitome of 90s-cool. Designed in a tiered shape and with an elasticated high waist, style with chunky loafers, white socks and a linen shirt to the office, or with an oversized tee and trainers at the weekend.
I put my fashion writer credentials to the test by searching through hundreds of M&S items to pick out the best pieces the brand has to offer - naturally, I also had to try everything on, too. Keep scrolling for a curated dossier of my absolute favourite pieces, and items I'd (rather happily) break my budget for.
The suede jacket


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In-store, M&S had a sprinkling of autumn/winter stock, so I tried on the one jacket that caught my eye - this dark chocolate brown suede number. I wear a size medium, and it comes up perfectly oversized anyway so I'd take your usual size.
The flared jeans


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Flared jeans might be a bit of a blast from the past, but M&S' style is completely modern, with a front seam and mid-rise waist. The denim isn't overly rigid, although I would make a note that these jeans come up rather long - I'm 5'4" and went for the short length.
Shop: More To Buy From M&S This Month

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Jumper weather will soon be upon us, and a good one to have in your arsenal is this style from M&S. With a navy and green stripe, ribbed trims and a crew neckline, style with a pair of jeans and black ballet flats

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Suede adorned absolutely everything earlier this year, and it hasn't gone away as we head into the transitional season. This pair of suede ballet pumps are perfect for styling with wide-leg trousers and midi skirts.

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If you're in the market for a lightweight jacket, M&S' Collarless Short Jacket can be a versatile addition to your wardrobe, taking you from September to December. Two welt side pockets mean you have room for essentials and the button-through front adds a polished edge.

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Leopard print was everywhere last year, and if you're still wanting to get involved in the trend, M&S has the perfect dress to do so. With a flattering neckline that's gently scooped and a bias-cut to flatter, style the dress with a pair of ballet flats or kitten heels.

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It's surprisingly difficult to find a good pair of trousers that are available in a wide range of lengths. If that's something you struggle with, look to M&S, where its designs come in a range of lengths and colours.

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If you want your knitwear to feel more elevated this autumn/winter, this chocolate brown M&S style is both polished and cosy. Designed with a cinched waist and button-down front, wear to the office with wide-leg trousers, and to after-work drinks with a mini skirt.

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Another suspected sell-out comes in the form of the Cotton Rich Striped Crew Neck Jumper. With a all-over stripe pattern that's nothing short of eye-catching and a ribbed texture, throw the jumper on with a pair of jeans and you're good to go.

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A white skirt works just as well for autumn as it does for summer, particularly when you change the top to something thicker and long sleeved. M&S' Jacquard Midi Circle Skirt has a midi-length hem, textured appearance and elasticated waistband.

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If you're on the hunt for a mini dress that can do it all, M&S has the style for you. Designed in a comfortable and slightly oversized fit, its ivory mini dress features statement tie detail bows on the arms as well as a textured finish.

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Designed in that trending butter yellow shade, or, as M&S calls it, 'soft gold,' the Ruffle Midi Column Dress is beautifully light and looks like the kind of boho-esque piece you'd spot on Sienna Miller. Finish the look with a pair of knee-high biker boots and chunky bangles.

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Mini skirts don't always have to be boring; in fact, this one from M&S is rather the opposite. The skirt features a tiered shape that cascades to mid-thigh length and embroidery detailing, perfect for toughening up with a pair of biker boots and a trench coat.

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You'll find that once you invest in a good pair of light-wash denim jeans, it will form the backbone of most of your outfits. For jeans that won't disappoint you, look to Hush (stocked on M&S), whose jeans feature a high waist and wide-leg fit.

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If your calendar looks like mine, it probably means you've got an event every weekend. If you don't want to invest in a different dress for each one, just buy one dress that does it all - like this leopard style from M&S.

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A striped jumper is another one of those wardrobe basics you probably should invest in. Not only is M&S's style excellent value for money and has that oversized fit and boxy shoulders you'd want from a cosy sweatshirt.

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If you're bored with your denim wardrobe, cargo trousers are an alternative that can be just as easy to style. With this khaki version, tuck a boxy white tee into the trousers or pair them with a boho blouse and ballet flats.

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Linen is a failsafe in the summer, particularly if you're dealing with the unbearable heat in the city. Designed with an easy oversized fit and button-through front, M&S's linen shirt has a collared neckline and long sleeves.

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M&S vest tops are some of the best on the high street (and they're not see-through). This particular style is available in five different colours - our favourite? A classic black. Style with wide-leg trousers and a statement belt.

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If your calendar looks anything like mine, which means it's full to the brim with garden parties galore, I've found the perfect dress to wear. With its dainty floral print and short cap sleeves, finish the sweet look with kitten heels and chunky gold bangles.

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A denim dress with a more modern take, M&S's style features a chic bandeau neckline, front panelling, and a full midi skirt that accentuates the waist.
Main image credit: Grazia/Gemma Lavers
Gemma Lavers is a fashion commerce writer at Grazia, where she tracks down viral pieces and is as comfortable navigating the M&S new-in page as she is dissecting the latest celebrity look. When not writing, shopping or at Reformer Pilates (a cliché but she's hooked), Gemma will likely be planning her next holiday (and what she's going to wear). For a glimpse into said travels, outfit inspo and life as a journalist, follow her on Instagram or TikTok.