Our head of fashion picks five of the best M&S dresses under £50 for the new season
When autumn rolls around, it’s as if our wardrobes collectively sigh in relief. The heatwave skirts are packed away, the linen is folded into storage and suddenly we’re desperate for sleeves, cosy fabrics and rich tones. If you’re anything like me, the first crisp morning has you thinking about a new dress you can throw on with tights and boots and immediately feel ready for the new season. It’s the easiest seasonal switch-up, and M&S is delivering the goods to help us pad out our wardrobes.
The high-street favourite has dropped some seriously chic new-in dresses for autumn, and the best part is that many of them come in at under £50. We’re talking versatile midaxis, everyday minis and ribbed jersey numbers that look far more expensive than their price tag suggests. I’m genuinely surprised these styles are still sitting in stock when they have all the makings of instant sell-outs. S
o before they vanish, here are the five under-£50 finds worth snapping up now…
Animal print ruched sleeve midaxi dress
Shop it for £46
Sian Welby’s under £50 M&S dress is perfect for party season
This midaxi dress in the black and red flower print is a pure statement. The drapey fabric cuts at a flattering length, giving you a flowy fit that lets you shimmy through your day. Small ruched cap sleeves with playful tie-detailing add a bit of fun. It’s perfect for layering under a trench coat and teaming with chunky boots or suede ankle boots. At £46, you get a luxury silhouette without blowing your budget.
Jersey striped v-neck midi waisted dress
Shop it for £39.50
Stripe lovers, this one’s for you. If Breton stripes are an autumn wardrobe staple, M&S has given us the comfy version with a V-neck and a lightly cinched waist to keep everything flattering. The jersey fabric means it’s soft and swishy yet smart enough for casual Friday at the office (or a weekend wander). Pricewise, it’s an absolute bargain at just under £40.
Cotton rich cord mini shift dress
Shop it for £36
Corduroy makes a dreamy return every autumn, and this mini shift ticks all the right boxes. It’s cut in a regular fit with a bit of stretch for comfort, plus a chic slash neck and little front seam to keep the shape interesting. You can also check off handy side pockets and a button detail at the back. A perfectly easy, ‘cool-girl’ mini for layering tights and knee-highs.
Button detail mini shift dress
Shop it for £30
Sometimes less is more, and this sleeveless mini shift is proof. The clean lines are elevated by a row of buttons across one shoulder in a neat little detail that makes the dress look expensive. At £30, it’s one of the cheapest here, but still feels stylish and luxe. And the shade Aubergine? Just right for autumn evenings and pairing with trainers or boots.
Cotton rich jersey ribbed midi column dress
Shop it for £36
This ribbed jersey column midi is ideal for days you want an outfit to look thought-out but without actually trying. It hugs in all the right places thanks to the textured knit, but still lets you do chores or work in comfort. The midi length makes it ideal for pairing with a chunky knit or even just sneakers for a high-low look. All that for £36, yes please.
While M&S is undeniably one of the top places to head to for autumn newness, it’s also well worth checking out Very.co.uk’s brand new The Very Collection, which features trend-led and luxe-looking pieces for affordable pricing. Our personal pick is the Check Coat with PU Trims.
