M&S ICONS:
SIX PIECES FOR YOUR SUMMER CAPSULE WARDROBE
Our M&S Icons are the wear-forever foundations of great style
The ultimate swimsuit
Call off the search for the perfect summer swimsuit: we’ve found it. We’re dreaming of wearing this swimsuit on a summer adventure. A plunge neckline creates a super flattering shape and delicate scallop detailing adds a pretty finish. Plus, it’s chlorine and UV-ray resistant and made with added stretch for extra comfort, so no tugging or rearranging every time you take the plunge. It’s already had five-star reviews from our customers, so don’t wait: add it to your summer wardrobe now.
Throw our pure cotton beach shirt over the top of the swimsuit and finish with chunky sandals for an elevated look on sunny days. Finish with some chic sunnies and enjoy warm weather in style. Want to hear more about the collection? Watch and shop our M&S Live.
The summer suit
Tailoring doesn’t have to be retired to the back of your wardrobe when the temperature soars. Simply swap structured styles for softer, more relaxed pieces that will fit seamlessly into your summer capsule wardrobe. Going straight into our baskets is this blazer and short set, which is made from cool linen and has a relaxed fit that will keep you comfortable on sticky summer days.
We’re always looking for versatile pieces that can be styled multiple ways, which the summer suit more than delivers. Wear to work for a refined yet minimalist take on office dressing: pair it with a simple white t-shirt or vest top and your favourite pair of trainers. Dress it up for weekend fun or special occasions with espadrilles and a statement bag. Finish the look with simple jewellery.
The midi dress
Struggling with what to wear to look cool when it’s hot? We’ve got the answer: a must-have midi dress. A great midi dress is the answer to almost all summer style conundrums: great for work, weekends, and everything in-between. Our spot midi dress is made from a lightweight fabric that will keep you cool all day long, no matter how packed your schedule. There’s something timeless about the polka dot print and monochromatic colour palette, so this is set to be a favourite for many summers to come. Puff sleeves and shirring detailing around the waist create a flattering shape.
Add a bit of edge to your look by styling this floaty midi with chunky fisherman sandals – this pair are made from study leather and have an antibacterial finish for a fresh feeling. Add a denim jacket (we like this on-trend utility jacket) to protect from any evening breezes when the sun goes down.
The knitted tee
Much as we dream of non-stop summer sunshine, the reality can be a little different. Light layers are the trick to cracking style when the weather is unpredictable. Enter the knitted tee. Made with lightweight, responsibly sourced cotton, it’s perfect for the summer months.
Stripes are a style classic, so the knitted tee will go with pretty much anything in your summer capsule wardrobe. We’ll be wearing ours with tailored straight leg trousers for a polished take on warm weather dressing, but you could also wear with our best-selling wide leg jeans in denim or white for an off duty look that feels comfortable but looks instantly put together.
The girlfriend shirt
A classic white shirt is one of our most worn summer essentials. This girlfriend shirt is cut with an oversized fit and is made from responsibly sourced cotton. A chest pocket adds some extra detail.
Versatile and classic, a white shirt is the cornerstone of easy summer style. Wear with smart trousers for an elegant outfit. Leave the last few buttons undone for a more modern look and add a leather belt to finish. We also love white shirts with jeans and sandals. Layer over summer slip dresses (Ghost London has a great range) in the evening or on slightly cooler days, worn open or knotted at the waist. And don’t forget to pack a girlfriend shirt for any summer holidays. A billowing white shirt looks great thrown over your favourite swimwear and paired with denim shorts.
The statement heels
Summer means celebration: weddings, garden parties, and more. The right pair of heels will see you through all the special occasions in your diary. Put your best foot forward in these platform court shoes, which are made from responsibly sourced leather. Dance the night away with no need to worry about sore feet thanks to our clever Insolia technology, which redistributes weight away from the balls of your feet to reduce pressure and increase ankle stability.
Wear with everything from summer dresses to jeans. If you’re heading to a summer wedding, the cream shade goes perfectly with printed dresses, like this pretty floral midi or silky polka dot dress. If neutrals aren’t for you, the statement heels are also available in black and antique gold. Fashion is taking inspiration from the 1970s this season, so lean into the look by pairing with flared jeans.
Words: Emily Sutherland
