We've Assembled the Perfect 10-Piece Summer Capsule—All From M&S

Marks and Spencer has been knocking it out of the park with its latest collections. So much so, you’d be forgiven for thinking the brand had already reached its stylish peak this year. Then we laid eyes on M&S’s summer edit, and it became blatantly clear that the affordable fashion hot spot was just getting started, and its warm-weather drop is, quite simply, one of its best yet. 

Having presided over the Great British high street for over a century, Marks and Spencer is known for serving up the best basics in the business. Its lingerie collection is unrivalled, as is its edit of high-quality linen. However, over the past few years, M&S has proven it has serious style credentials, too, not merely by tapping into the top trends but also by starting them. And that’s precisely what its latest host of wares and accessories will do: define the fashion agenda for the summer season. 

While jetting off on an exotic getaway might be currently out of the question, M&S has hit the sweet spot with its edit of impressive summer staples that work perfectly for our plans. Designed to carry you through the easing of lockdown restrictions and reuniting with friends for al fresco dining all the way to packing your weekender bag for an idyllic staycation on Brit soil, M&S is fast becoming our one-stop shop for the season ahead. In fact, you need only glance at its new-in section to see that the brand has practically assembled the perfect summer capsule wardrobe for you. 

With everything you need to give your aesthetic a chic refresh that’ll make you look and, more importantly, feel great in the process, our editors have whittled it down to 10 key pieces they love most from the Marks and Spencer summer collection. Scroll below to see them, and start planning your now-flourishing social calendar accordingly.

1. CHIC SUNDRESSES

After months of being cooped up indoors, chances are you don't want to waste any time getting ready that could be spent in the beer garden or picnicking in the park. Cue Marks and Spencer's drop of stylish summer midi dresses, which work for any and every occasion. 

2. CHUNKY SANDALS

Chunky sandals are proving to be all the rage this season, and M&S has one of the best offerings around. From chunky flip-flops to multi-strap options, these styles could easily pass for designer. 

3. BELTED OUTERWEAR

Although we applaud any optimism, this is still Britain, and even in the summer, you'd be ill-advised to leave the house without a cover-up. We love M&S's edit of breezy jackets and coats that tie at the waist. Not only do they look sophisticated, but they should keep the chill at bay, too. 

4. TIMELESS KNITWEAR

Knitwear is also integral to the British summer wardrobe, and, true to form, Marks and Spencer has so many expensive-looking options to choose from. Stick to classic Breton stripes, camel hues or sleek navy, and just add to your favourite pair of jeans. 

5. NEVER-DATE DENIM

Speaking of denim, M&S has so many excellent indigo-hued garms just waiting to be discovered, from oversize jackets and on-trend midi skirts to the perfect pair of wide-leg jeans. We know where we'll be getting our denim fix this summer. 

6. SLEEK VESTS

While they mightn't be the most exciting summer purchase, vest tops are good to have on-hand when temperatures peak. And M&S has some of the best styles out there. 

7. LIGHTWEIGHT JUMPSUITS

Like dresses, jumpsuits take all the effort out of getting dressed and outfit prep. Pair one of M&S's breezy all-in-ones with tan sandals and gold jewellery for a look that's elevated and, best of all, requires minimal effort on your part. 

8. PARED-BACK BAGS

Remember handbags? Like our social calendars, they too are making a comeback this summer. Look for minimal silhouettes in a tonal palette to make every outfit you wear look luxurious. 

9. RELAXED TAILORING

This season, silhouettes are turning slouchy, as comfort remains one of our biggest outfit priorities coming out of lockdown. M&S has nailed this aesthetic with its collection of relaxed tailoring, and this black co-ord is at the top of our new-season wish lists. 

10. BIKINIS ON STANDBY

While most of us have given up hope of international travel this year, that doesn't negate the need for swimwear entirely. Whether you plan on heading to the local lido, beach, or wild swimming spot, you'll want to do so in one of M&S's trend-ticking bikinis. 

Next Up: M&S Has Just Delivered the Perfect Summer Sandals, and They're Only £35