M&S winter collection: Fashion writer top picks under £50

Marks and Spencer has become a go-to for fashion fans in the last few years, crossing generations to offer something for everyone within its versatile and fairly-priced ranges. With the new year in full swing, I’ve found myself wanting to update my wardrobe, swapping out the December sparkles for cosy, comfy pieces that are easy to style while still looking put-together.

January can sometimes feel like a strange time for fashion, as it’s heading towards the tail-end of winter meaning you may not want to invest in big coats but you still need to keep warm, and the promise of spring is on the horizon in the coming months.

When browsing the M&S website recently, amongst their range, I found some stand-out pieces for layering and for elevating your basics – both of which are ideal for this season. Plus, all of my top picks are under £50!

One of the newest additions to the Marks and Spencer collection is this Cloud-Yarn Striped Crew Neck Jumper, made with a soft and cosy fabric, and priced at a reasonable £25.

Aside from the great price, I love the colour combination of this piece. The winter white contrasts beautifully with an ice-blue shade, adding a subtle hint of colour. I’d pair the jumper with blue wide-leg jeans and trainers for a relaxed weekend outfit.

A midi dress is a great transitional staple, as it can be layered up for the colder months or worn alone in the spring. The Cotton Blend Striped Midi Skater Dress costs £29.50 and comes in green or monochrome, in a chic midi-length.

The textured jersey design is great for pairing with everyday basics, so I’d style it with a black cropped jacket and chunky boots, but for spring you could swap the jacket out for a trench coat.

This £45 on-trend jacket combines the classic denim jacket with the popular collared barn jacket trend, and it’s a great piece to throw on when layering an outfit.

Pair the relaxed-fit jacket with black jeans, a mini a-line skirt or throw over a jumper dress as an extra layer for when you take your coat off.

One of the most chic pieces from M&S’ new collection is this Polka Dot Puff Sleeve Blouse which costs £37.50 and comes in a slightly cropped length with hook and eye fastenings at the front, playful bow details and stylish puff sleeves.

It’s a statement piece that could dress up a casual outfit or be worn with a swishy satin midi skirt for full-on glam.

Following on from the success of the Uniqlo Crossbody bags which went viral last year, these M&S faux leather versions chic alternatives with more versatility for different occasions.

There are four shades to choose from, but I’d opt for cream or black for everyday wear, and the bags have an adjustable strap so they can be worn across the body or as a shoulder bag.

Animal print is timeless, and the £35 Jersey Animal Print Midaxi Bodycon Dress is a good piece for channelling the pattern, plus it’s easy to style with some simple accessories.

I would wear this dress in two different ways – by adding a touch of grunge with a leather jacket and boots, or with a faux fur jacket to soften the look. The versatility is endless though, as you could also layer it with a jumper or knitted best for colder days.

A thinner knit is a wardrobe essential for me all year round, and unpredictable weather means it comes in handy regardless of the season. The £35 Cotton Blend Henley Neck Jumper has a button-down front, which offers a customisable look, and the simplicity of the design means it should work for years to come.

If I were to invest in this piece, I’d style it with jeans – it would go with any shade, or with a tiered skirt, boots and a suede jacket for a boho-inspired look.

Seasalt has a new collection, which is ideal for adding some colour to your winter wardrobe.

Or, head to Roman Clothing’s new in section, which has a mix of winter layering, spring essentials and cosy knits.