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Marks and Spencer has finally re-opened online for selected orders – and it’s good news for fashion fans, but they’ll need to do one important thing before they can checkout
After weeks of refreshing the Marks and Spencer homepage, it’s a relief to have the site back online. Seven weeks after the retailer was hit by a major cyberattack, M&S has finally reopened its site for selected online orders – and it’s good news for fashion fans.
As of this morning, the high street favourite is offering home delivery on certain bestselling clothing styles, meaning I could finally check out my long-awaited basket. But not without doing one very important thing first.
Before placing an order, all shoppers must reset their M&S account password – it takes a couple of seconds to do and is a necessary precaution after the breach. With that done, I finally hit ‘buy’ on all the warm-weather pieces I’ve had my eye on.
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From fresh sandals to viral cotton dresses, and swimsuits that hold their shape, here’s everything I’m ordering as a fashion writer as M&S makes its much anticipated comeback:
Woven Shoulder Tote Bag – £39.50
I saw this bag on a friend’s Instagram story weeks ago and immediately knew I needed it. It’s an easy, neutral-toned staple I know I’ll use nonstop, especially now that I can actually order it.
I don’t live particularly close to an M&S store with my nearest being around nine miles away, so not being able to order it online was quite a pain as I didn’t want to do an 18-mile round trip if it wasn’t in stock at my local store, but I’ve finally been able to get my mitts on it this morning.
Coming in at £39.50, the Woven Shoulder Tote Bag comes in a dreamy light, dusky blue hue and is a surefire way to elevate your summer basics. Made from a woven leather-look fabric that is light and breezy, it boasts two top handles and an adjustable shoulder strap that can be removed for styling versatility.
This small tote is exactly the kind of laid-back, practical summer bag that works for both errands and evenings out. A zipped inner pocket keeps valuables secure, and the whole thing feels more expensive than its price tag suggests.
Wide Fit Suede Fisherman Sandals – £49.50
Fisherman sandals are set to be the must-have footwear for the summer and this suede pair perfectly blends the stylish shoe silhouette with the fabric that dominated spring. And at under £50, they’re a great alternative to Dr Martens’ £150 Wrenlie Bronx Suede Fisherman Sandals, which have a similar design.
M&S’s take on the trend is made in a wide fit – a rare and glorious thing for anyone whose feet don’t fit into standard sizing. They’re low-heeled, secure at the ankle, and have that timeless look that works with everything.
Shoppers are already obsessed with the sandals having racked up a number of five star ratings, one of which read: “I can’t believe I have a pair of sandals that are both comfy and wide enough to not feel like I’m squashed in! I will be buying the black version too.”
“So comfortable, so classic, love them. I’m wearing them with everything from now on. I will probably buy a second pair. One pair for casual/beach etc. one pair for smart summer outfits,” wrote another.
However, some reviewers found them too generously sized, so if your feet are only slightly wide, consider sizing down. One said: “These are a lovely sandal but I found the sizing too large, both too long and too wide, so not for me. Great for someone with wider feet than mine.”
Pure Cotton Bubble Hem Midaxi Dress – £49.50
There’s a reason this bubble-hem dress has become a cult favourite among Instagram girlies. The bubble hem is dramatic but wearable, with a gathered skirt and cut-out back offering structure without feeling fussy. The cotton fabric feels breathable, and it’s fully lined, making it feel super polished.
In the reviews, one customer said: “The dress is beautiful. I felt really nice in it and lots and lots of women asked me where it was from.”
“Stunning dress with a beautiful skirt shape and flattering bodice. Fresh summer weight cotton,” said another. But a third mentioned that it runs slightly small, commenting: “This is a gorgeous dress but comes up small. Take a size bigger than usual.”
This LBD (long black dress) is a real investment piece for your wardrobe. Pair with gold or silver jewellery and a cute bag and you’ve got a showstopper of an outfit for any occasion.
We have also spotted a very similar style at Next, as the retailer is stocking its Sleeveless Racer Puffball 100% Cotton Midi Dress, available in white and black, for £42.
Neoprene Scallop Plunge Swimsuit – £35
The perfect swimsuit has eluded me for several years, and each time I buy a new one, after 12 months, it never seems to fit as well or hold its shape. As such, I’ve been eyeing up the Neoprene Scallop Plunge Swimsuit at M&S , a style that has returned year after year in fresh colourways thanks to its enduring popularity.
This tomato red shade is a dream, made from neoprene fabric for a smooth feel and a flattering fit. The scallop-edged plunge neckline adds a feminine feel without being over the top. It comes with removable padding and is made from chlorine-resistant StayNew fabric, which means it should actually survive a summer of wear. Perfect for pool days, spa trips or layering under linen trousers on holiday.
Another option for those looking for the perfect beachwear is Cat Deeley’s Evia Ruffle Swimsuit in black, which comes in at £80 from Boden. With lightly padded fixed cups and built-in Powermesh fabric to streamline the figure, it’s the kind of swimsuit that suits a range of body types.
