As someone who likes to mix trend-led pieces with classic staples, I’ve been relying on Marks & Spencer for pretty much all of my fashion needs for years. While their basics, like lingerie, shoes and tees always hit the spot, M&S’ summer dresses are surprisingly wearable this year too.
When I heard about the brand’s collaboration with another iconic British brand Ghost, I became even more excited.
The classic appeal of M&S and the vintage-inspired vibe of Ghost just go so well together, and that’s evident in the 25-piece collection they just released, which includes romantic midi dresses in vibrant prints and some twinning options for mums and kids too.
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The brand boasts Holly Willoughby as a fan, so it’s perhaps not surprising that their summer dresses are so stylish. The TV present has a habit of fleshing out the cutest pieces and inspiring her fans to copy her style. Pretty much everything she wears immediately sells out, so when I saw her wearing one of M&S’ newest summer dresses, I knew she must be onto something.
The site stocks a selection of brands, including Phase Eight, Nobody’s Child, Sosander, and of course M&S’ own brands such as M&S Collection and Autograph. It also has plenty of plus-size, petite and tall options, making it an easy place to shop for many.
I sifted through over 600 of the British brand’s SS21 dresses and narrowed my search down to 13 that are now firmly on my wishlist. It’s a tough job but someone has to do it!
Each dress offers something different but remains on trend, whether it’s cutwork detail, floral or animal print, puff sleeves or a tie waist. Here are my favourites.
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Buy now

Printed Tie-Neck Waisted Midi Dress, £45 – buy now

Organic Cotton Embroidered Waisted Dress, £80 – buy now

Floral Tie-Neck Midi Waisted Dress, £39.50 – buy now
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Pure Cotton Lace Trim Waisted Dress, £49.50 – buy now
Checked Square Neck Maxi Waisted Dress, £99, Phase Eight – buy now

Pure Cotton Embroidered Midi Dress, £45 – buy now

Satin Polka Dot Tie-Front Midaxi Dress, £45 – buy now

Ditsy Floral V-Neck Midi Wrap Dress, £39.50 – buy now

Floral Round-Neck Midaxi Waisted Dress, £39.50 – buy now

Linen Polka Dot Square Neck Midi Dress, £29.50 – buy now

Animal Print Frill Detail Mini Tea Dress, £29.50 – buy now

Floral V-Neck Sleeveless Midi Slip Dress, £69, M&S x Ghost – buy now

Organic Cotton Floral Tiered Smock Dress, £39 – buy now
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