Marks & Spencer's ultimate black dress (with pockets) is back, here's why I recommend buying it ASAP
You know, on those rare occasions when you try on a piece of clothing that you weren't expecting much from, only for it to exceed your expectations? Well, that's exactly how I felt when I found this Marks & Spencer dress in May.
The humble black midi dress is a well-worn staple in every woman's wardrobe year-round. While this bargain £35 dress may not look like much on the hanger, once you put it on, the fit and functionality shine through, making you not only feel great but look chic too.
While I tested the first iteration, which featured three-quarter sleeves and quickly sold out within days. M&S has now brought out the same dress in a new version that's ideal for autumn.
This fit and flare dress is an absolute wardrobe staple.
It's designed with the same flattering fit-and-flare shape, but the latest version has long sleeves, making it perfect for the colder months. In fact, to be honest, I actually prefer it to the original. Here's why you should add it to your basket ASAP.
💸 Reasons to buy
For starters, this dress is the best of both worlds. The top half is made from a stretchy, cotton-rich ribbed fabric that is super soft and comfortable. The contrasting pure cotton A-line skirt adds movement to the dress and completes the smart silhouette. Trust me, I tested it by twirling around.
Not stopping there, the gathered waistline features a drawstring fastening, allowing you to cinch your figure in as much or as little as you want. Not only does this mean you can tailor the dress to create the most flattering fit for you, but I also appreciate the practicality so I can loosen the waist after an overindulgent dinner out.
Just when I thought this dress couldn’t get any better, I found out it has pockets. Now, who doesn’t love pockets? Especially on a rather simple and timeless dress like this.
The classic number can also easily be dressed up or down. While I styled it casually with a pair of trainers and a trendy £35 canvas bag, which is also from M&S. You could throw it on with a pair of heeled boots, some statement earrings and red lippy for a striking evening look.
All in all, it’s these details that not only make the dress incredibly versatile, but also makes it look and feel a whole lot more luxury than the very affordable £35 price tag.
In fact, I had been eyeing up a similar style on COS that is £85, meanwhile similar designer options available right now go up to a whopping £580.
Not only does the dress come in black, but the M&S number also now comes in a warm toffee hue, which would look super chic styled with coordinating brown boots for a perfect autumnal ensemble.
If the first dress is anything to go by, this super flattering and affordable number is going to sell out in no time, so I'd snap it up now while you still can.
Shop now: Cotton Rich Midi Skater Dress | £35 from Marks & Spencer
Other M&S dresses we're loving for autumn
Invest in the ultimate little black dress for autumn with this basic but elevated silhouette, made from a lightweight, breezy fabric and detailed with a round neckline, button-through fastenings and cuffed short sleeves.
Shop Marks & Spencer's signature tea dress in a brand-new, striking print and enjoy a midaxi-length skirt, nipped-in waist, and forgiving shape.
Designed in two wearable prints: dark blue mix and brown mix, this dress can be worn for a number of occasions. The shirt dress silhouette means the more fitted chest area flows into a floaty skirt for a breathable and forgiving shape.
Available in sizes six to 24, this versatile denim dress can be dressed up with boots and a blazer or kept casual with trainers and a cardigan.
Shoppers have already rushed to buy this dress, describing as it "cool and comfortable". We particularly love the green check print, and timeless shirt shape.
Turn heads in this statement animal print dress. Design details including three-quarter sleeves and neck ties make this dress look a lot more high-end and expensive than it actually is.
The easy-to-wear denim dress can be styled with pretty much anything — whether that's a pair of staple white trainers, pumps or heels — and is certain to always look stylish. We especially love its A-line shape, airy short sleeves and button detailing.
Proving hugely popular online already, this wrap-style dress features a bold all-over checked pattern and falls to a sophisticated midi length. We're obsessed with the puff sleeves and cinched tie waist.
