I recently tried on M&S's latest spring collection—here are the pieces that fit well with my classic, minimalist style.

      Welcome to The Great Try-On. With spring truly upon us, we took the chance to try on the latest pieces from some of our favorite brands, documenting the experience as we went. We believe the best way to shop online is to see an item in real life first and read honest reviews regarding fit, style, and quality. We hope our try-ons help you make your best purchases this year. Spring is always an intriguing time for fashion. It’s not just about swapping out heavy knits for lighter items; it’s also a time when I refine my dressing for the months to come. My wardrobe is based on classic, minimalist pieces I can wear for years, but I still refresh it each season. During this time, I focus on finding transitional essentials—light jackets, versatile dresses, and accessories that bring a fresh perspective to my daily outfits.

      I also take a thoughtful approach to shopping. I favor pieces that feel effortless yet polished, and I naturally lean towards a more modest aesthetic—longer hemlines, relaxed tailoring, and layers that add dimension without being overwhelming. I've found that by choosing items that reflect my style philosophy, I can create a wardrobe that feels cohesive and timeless. That’s why, as I browsed new arrivals, I looked for pieces that would serve me well rather than fleeting trends that may not last beyond the season.

      This thought process led me to focus on Marks and Spencer. It's well-known that this British brand offers premium-looking staples without the designer price tag. I was eager to see how the new spring collection would fit with my existing wardrobe, and as I explored the new arrivals, I discovered numerous items that aligned perfectly with my high-low dressing style. Some bags and shoes particularly stood out as they looked quite expensive, prompting me to double-check the prices. I was also attracted to the waistcoats and sleeveless knitwear—pieces I appreciate conceptually but that can be hit or miss in practice. Sometimes layering these items over shirts doesn’t work, but M&S's versions appeared well-structured and enhanced the outfit rather than detracting from it.

      One thing this try-on has confirmed is that M&S continues to excel in quality, style, and affordability. These items are thoughtfully designed, wearable, and well-crafted—exactly what I seek when expanding my wardrobe. Whether it's a tailored blazer that stands up to my higher-end pieces or a waistcoat that layers well, every item I tried on merits a spot in my spring collection.

      After a thorough try-on session, I've selected four outfits that truly demonstrate style, versatility, and wearability. Here are my spring selections from M&S.

      **Check Out My Top Picks From My M&S Spring 2025 Try-On:**

      1. **Midi Dress + Slingback Kitten Heels + Woven Bag**

       *My Review:* I'm constantly on the lookout for simple, classic dresses suitable for various occasions, and this one meets all the criteria. The textured fabric adds intrigue, while the waist detail offers a flattering shape without feeling constricted. The midi length is just right for my taste, working well with both flats and heels. It’s a dress I can easily throw on and still feel well-dressed. To maintain a classic vibe, I matched it with pointed slingbacks—sleek yet comfortable for all-day wear. The woven shoulder bag was an immediate "yes." It has a designer-like quality that makes it appear far more expensive than it is, and its classic black color ensures I'll be using it frequently this season.

       - *Shop the Look:*

       - **M&S Collection:** Cotton Rich Textured V-Neck Midi Waisted Dress

       - **M&S Collection:** Slip On Kitten Heel Pointed Slingback Shoes in Black

       - **M&S Collection:** Faux Leather Woven Sling Bag

      2. **Cropped Trench Coat + Broderie Blouse + Palazzo Jeans + Flats**

       *My Review:* This ensemble combines all my favorite elements—timeless pieces with a contemporary twist. The cropped trench offers a fresh interpretation of a classic staple, making it an excellent match for high-waisted jeans. The broderie blouse adds just the right amount of detail without feeling overly formal, and I appreciate how it contrasts with the structured denim. I believe the accessories really finish off the look; the blue suede bag is a standout that subtly brightens the neutrals, and the ballet flats keep the outfit understated and polished. It’s an outfit I envision wearing from a laid-back workday to a weekend brunch.

       - *Shop the Look:*

       - **M&S Collection:** Cotton Rich Short Trench Coat in Neutral

       - **M&S Collection:** Pure Cotton Broderie Frill Detail Blouse

       - **M&S Collection:** Lyocell Blend Wide Palazzo Leg Jeans in Light Indigo

       - **Autograph:** Suede Top Handle Grab Bag