First Look: Marks And Spencer Spring/Summer Collection 2013

Christmas hasn’t yet been and gone plus right now you’d probably rather wrap up in a snugly sweater than even think about, gulp, getting your kit off and wearing lighter layers. But the fashion world is always working one season ahead, which is why most brands are already holding their spring/summer press days.

The womenswear range by the high street retailer has consistently gotten stronger with each new season (It’s no secret that your fashion editor i.e. me is a fan… of the food, the fashion, the fab homewares, you get the picture… the whole kit and caboodle!)

The design team focused on five key trends for the spring/summer collection creating wearable pieces for both on-and-off duty dressing. There’s print fusion (kinda what it says on the tin what?); mono pop that’s all about Sixties shapes and bold stripes; urban utility which is that safari trend that shows up every summer; modern luxe has a sporty but sophisticated vibe and doll’s house is as the name suggests about as girly as you can get – think pretty fabrics like broderie anglaise and lace in a soft pastel palette.

And you’d hardly expect us to flick through the rails and not make a wishlist of our favourite pieces. Here are the hero pieces we’ll be adding to our wardrobe when the new collection comes into stores in February.

Mixing prints is a key look right now but if you’re new to the trend then take inspiration from this outfit. The print combo works because they’re in the same colour palette of blue and white and both patterns are similar in size. We’re not keen of tying the shirt western style though; we’d tuck it in instead for a more flattering silhouette.

OTT granny gems whether necklaces or earrings are a key piece for autumn/winter and the trend will still be big next season. We love the combo of powder blue and pale pink in this beaut, €27, that will look great worn with summery striped tees.

Get the designer look for less with these Erdem-esque shoes. We have this British designer to thank for championing the graphic floral print that is all over the high street. These simple pumps, €40, are gorgeous – we plan to clash them with other patterns.

 

Trouser suits, pastels and snakeskin print remain key elements for spring/summer and this look has it all going on! We love this outfit and think it is a great option for workwear dressing. If you have an apple shape (bit of a tummy and slim legs) then the combination of tailored trousers and longline jacket will flatter your figure. Stylist’s tip: wear a longer necklace to draw the eye down the torso. Trust us this is a clever slimming secret that really works!

 

We’ve given you the heads up that a trophy jacket is one the fash packs go-to items and this scarf print jacket, €75, is a fab version. Here’s why – it has a vintage vibe, that dark lapel is a clever design trick that’ll instantly make the wearer look slimmer and the paisley print in very on-trend. In a word… want!

Ooh, we do love a bargain buy that looks more high end than high street. This smart clutch, €40, has a real bang of French label Celine about it – the clean lines, subtle snakeskin detail and tri-colour combo all up its fashion credentials.

What do you think of the Marks and Spencer spring/summer collection? Tell us if there's the pieces your dying to get your hands on in the comments below.