Ahead of M&S's London Fashion Week debut, I've found the best new autumn fashion
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M&S has been a fixture in British wardrobes for more than a century, but it’s about to make its biggest fashion statement yet: debuting at London Fashion Week alongside luxury names like Burberry and Erdem.
As part of its 100th anniversary celebrations, the high street giant will bring together its Collection, Per Una and Autograph lines, with every look available to shop immediately after it appears on the catwalk. Following high-profile catwalk shows at Ibiza and Silverstone for its summer collections, this “see now, buy now” model for autumn/winter shakes up the LFW formula.
Laura Weir, the chief executive of the British Fashion Council, described M&S as “one of the great icons of the British high street”, adding that the retailer had played “an important role in the nation’s retail and cultural story for generations”.
The stalwart has long shaken off its reputation for sensible staples: it’s officially now a credible fashion player. M&S’s latest autumn drop is a case in point. From pleated kilts and architectural blazers to fur-trimmed knitwear and satin outerwear, the collection gives us a hint of what’s coming on 18 September.
Over the last few years, the stalwart has hit the sweet spot for wearable, polished pieces that won’t feel dated by next season. Now easily rivalling Zara, Mango and Cos for affordable fashion, the shop’s commitment to quality has also endured.
Thanks to direction from Topshop alum Maddy Evans, M&S’s clothing nods to trends, but with perennially chic detailing that appeals to all ages. Collaborations with the actor Sienna Miller and the designer Bella Freud, along 16Arlington and Aries have only cemented its new sartorial status.
Many elevated pieces are reminiscent of designer pieces but cost a fraction of the price, while its basics and jeans lines are reliable favourites for everyday essentials. M&S’s LFW show will be livestreamed online for fashion fans, who will do doubt be rushing online to shop the pieces before they sell out.
Ahead of its debut, these are the pieces that caught my eye in store and online for autumn right now.

M&S is the best place on the high street for tall women. Its trousers – plus some skirts and dresses, too – all come in long or extra long lengths, catering for 6ft girls like me. This classic pair of pinstripe trousers is a hardworking autumn staple, particularly when styled with the matching oversized blazer (£85, Marksandspencer.com).

A hero piece for your cold-weather wardrobe, this grey cardigan is elevated by a faux fur collar and bow detailing. The collar is detachable so you can switch up your look day to day.
M&S double breasted check blazer

A tailored co-ord that has you covered for the office and smart evening occasions, this blazer is complete with matching wide leg trousers (£40, Marksandspencer.com). Both the double breasted silhouette and fine check print ensure both are a timeless investment.

A key trend for this season, pleated skirts are dominating high street collections. This kilt from M&S embraces minimalism with its black finish, midi hem and wrap front. A buckle fastening is the final flourish.

This satin bomber promptly went viral after dropping on M&S’s website last week. It’s not hard to see why. The zip front and funnel neck gives it a sporty aestehtic while the satin navy finish and elegant blouson sleeves make it dressy.
M&S pure cotton barrel leg trousers

A tailored take on relaxed cargo trousers, this barrel-leg style is characterised by its mid-rise waist and oversized pockets. Poppers on the ankle mean you can customise the cut, while the light sandstone finish leans into the utilitarian feel. The black and khaki colourways are equally chic.
M&S cornflower blue knit top

After a long, hot summer, I’ve been dreaming of chunky, enveloping knitwear. This M&S top offers a happy compromise, complete with short sleeves and a slightly cropped cut. The neck tie and trending blue finish is chef’s kiss.

Remember those viral suede loafers that sold out last winter? Meet the 2026 version. With their ruched detailing, worn-in leather look and rich wine shade, the staple shoes look four times the price.
M&S chiffon knee length skirt

Nineties-style knee-length skirts – also known as awkward-length skirts – are the trend to take note of this autumn. More weather-appropriate than a mini but more playful than a maxi, this M&S take features a ruffle hem. Style with a long-sleeve white T-shirt and knit jumper tied around the waist for a pop of colour.
M&S black leather ballet flats

It’s time to swap your mesh and woven ballet flats for a sturdier, robust leather style. This pair of black pumps will serve you well during the transitional months. Whether poking out of long, wide-leg jeans or styled with capri pants, they’ll go with everything.
M&S red funnel neck jacket

We might have got a little too used to balmy weather, but cooler climes are already here (we do live in the UK, after all). Enter this lightweight, practical funnel-neck jacket that will elevate everything thanks to the red colourway.
M&S double layered ruched top

An intriguing alternative to a basic white or grey T-shirt, this double-layered top features ruching detail on the side. Style with white jeans, a black belt and ballet flats for an easy, off-duty look.
M&S knot button detail puff sleeve top

A white top that will do a lot of leg work in your autumn wardrobe, the button detailing, puff sleeves and expensive-looking cream finish create a point of difference. A great style for the office; pair with cargo barrel trousers or jeans and flats.

Taking you from your desk to dinner, a white trouser suit can serve you all year long. The cut of this M&S take strikes a balance between smart and relaxed, with straight-leg trousers and a fitted, single breasted blazer.
M&S satin belted trench coat

Trench coats are a given each autumn, but this M&S style puts a stylish spin on the classic. Sophisticated without trying too hard, the jacket boasts a chocolate satin finish, timeless double breasted cut and sweepening maxi length.
