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Marks & Spencer has long been the place to head for sensible trousers or a multi-pack of knickers, but at the press show this spring it was the brand’s occasionwear that had many fashion editors talking. For many years, the high street stalwart has offered little in the way of summer party outfits, but for 2025 there are plenty of options for those heading to weddings, the races or any sort of outdoor bash.
‘I am really here for M&S’s new foray into partywear’ says You magazine’s fashion editor Hannah Skelley. ‘The amount of occasionwear outlets on our shopping streets has dwindled, so this could represent a new hotspot. Known for fabulous basics and sell-out trend-led pieces, M&S’s occasion collection is of the same quality – but it’s elevated, contemporary and very affordable.’
Here, the fashion team reveal their top picks from Marks & Spencer’s occasionwear line-up…
Hannah Skelley, fashion editor
‘Butter yellow has taken over the high street this spring and this sleek lace button down tea dress is the exact shade of sunshine you should be looking for. It will work with ballet pumps and a suede roomy tote for al fresco dining occasions and with metallic kitten heels and a baguette bag during wedding season.’
Lila Flint Roberts, senior bookings editor
‘If you’re looking to update your party wardrobe, turn to accessories first – they give a new lease of life to all outfits! I’ve always been an avid supporter of Marks & Spencer’s accessories – and they just keep getting better. This woven clutch is a brilliant size and is a style that has been extremely popular for at least three years now owing to Bottega Veneta – so it’ll be money well spent.
‘The suede stilettos are unreal and would cost a lot more if bought from any other high street store. Wear with jeans and a crisp white shirt, or pair with your favourite wedding guest dress. Cost per wear (and the material used) will justify the slightly higher price point.’
Jessica Carroll, junior style editor
‘I love a mini for summer occasions, and I know I would be able to re-wear this LBD again and again for just about any event. With a square neckline and fit and flare silhouette, it has a subtle vintage feel that makes it look very expensive. My advice would be to lean into this and pair with slingback kitten heels, a delicate top-handle bag and chunky gold earrings. Alternatively, I’d dress it down with woven raffia ballet flats, black sunnies, and a slouchy tote bag.
‘M&S’ partywear options are some of the best on the high street at the moment. They have got it spot on in terms of making stylish pieces that don’t rely too heavily on obvious trends, meaning they are more timeless than other high street stores. My favourite thing, however, has got to be their accessories. Their shoes and jewellery are perfect for elevating an otherwise plain special occasion look.’
Hope Palmer, fashion assistant
‘Occasionwear can be tricky — I never want to buy something just to wear it once and have it sat in the back of the wardrobe forevermore. That’s why I love this dress, the fresh colour and floral print feel like something special without being too in your face. The print also helps distract from what could be a clingy fabric, making it flattering without the fuss and the puff sleeves creates a lovely silhouette. It’s easy to dress it up with these chunky raffia heels, great jewellery and bag for a chic occasion look. And just as easily, you can tone it down for everyday wear — think loafers, socks, and chunky gold jewellery. That makes it the perfect occasionwear dress for me.’
Plus, here are 4 more pieces we love…
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