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At this time of year, when the sun finally starts to appear, I love nothing more than checking out the key looks from the SS26 runway shows. Not that I am about to invest in head-to-toe designer – I can confirm that this fashion editor is definitely not wearing Prada – but for some summer wardrobe inspiration. What are the key trends? How should I style them? And, crucially, how the hell can I create a similar look at a significantly lower price?
Traditionally, the catwalk shows of fashion week are removed from real life. This is fashion as fantasy. The clothes that the average British woman buys are not paraded down a runway; instead, she will find them hanging limply on plastic hangers, or displayed in campaign imagery that is often heavily altered and retouched.
But imagine if you could see the summer wardrobe you’re after, and that you can afford, in motion, and styled with intent on the same models the high fashion houses use. Of course, if you’re only spending £30 on a summer dress that’s been a pipe dream. Until now.
Because Marks & Spencer is bringing the designer experience to the everyday shopper. Its first-ever live catwalk show is happening tonight in Ibiza (live-streamed via their YouTube and Instagram channels). We got a sneak peek at those high summer catwalk looks ahead of time and here are the highlights.
You’d be forgiven for thinking these wide-leg jeans and tiered camisole came straight off a Chloé runway, especially styled with a suede hobo bag and platform shoes. That’s the beauty of seeing these pieces on the catwalk, you’re shown exactly how to wear them.
Longline shorts are the style to be seen in this summer, and they don’t get better than this belted pair, cut just below the knee. Styled here with a silk cami, but I’ll be wearing mine with an oversized linen shirt.
If you’re updating your holiday wardrobe, add this Zimmermann-esque shorts-and-shirt set to your basket for breezy daytime chic. The gladiator sandals are a bold fashion statement – hard to believe they’re M&S but I’m into it.
Butter yellow isn’t going anywhere, and this tonal look makes a tricky-to-wear colour look instantly cool. The full skirt is the standout piece here. I love it styled with the coordinating lightweight jacket and matching bag, but it would look just as good with a simple white T-shirt.
And that leopard-print cutaway swimsuit? A bold move for M&S – but proof that high fashion and the high street are closer than ever.
It’s all shoppable right now. No waiting six months like you would with high-end fashion – this is see now, buy now – consider your summer wardrobe sorted.