I am a person of pretty straightforward wants and needs. I like baking on the weekend, talking my dogs to the beach, and generally living the simple life. This also includes my wardrobe, which I have actively refined to a collection of hardworking basics over the years, many of which I seem to snap up from one particular high-street store. In my opinion, Marks & Spencer does affordable basics better than anywhere else, especially when it comes to its jersey selection. I’ve been wearing its T-shirts and tops for years, and although I wouldn’t expect to receive compliments on such items, I always do. They’re cut well, wash well and wear well, so I very rarely have to add to my rotation.
Recently, however, after literal years of wear, I decided it was time to update the handful of M&S ribbed vest tops I already own. Opening the fresh new white and black styled I’d ordered, it struck me just how much wear I actually get out of these simple items. In fact, when I think about it, I wear an M&S vest almost every day in the summer and, with autumn approaching, I know they come in just as handy for quick layering solutions, too. I rely on my £9 M&S ribbed vests so heavily, but it never occurred to me to proclaim my love for them on such a public forum. Now, though, that time has come. Below, I’ve whipped up four outfits to show you just how worthwhile an investment this vest is. Like what you see? Everything below is from M&S, too, so you can add to basket with ease. Don’t say I’m not good to you…
This vest top comes in so many colours, though I find the white to be most useful.
Style Notes: Be it for work or weekend, a failsafe vest-top-and-tailored-trouser look is something I always come back to.
The scoop neckline works with any outfit.
This will make every outfit you wear look polished.
Such a great price for a real leather belt.
These went straight into my basket.
I own these ballet flats and they’re easily the comfiest shoes in my collection.
Style Notes: Double denim was a major look on the autumn runways this season; one you can re-create affordably too. Give it ’90s appeal with a white vest and black shoes.
This has a lovely relaxed fit, so no need to size up.
Silver jewellery is a key trend for the season ahead.
I love the fact that the straps cover that of my most supportive bra.
The perfect denim skirt does exist.
Between the shiny leather finish, the square toe and the chunky heel, these loafers look so high-end.
Style Notes: For evenings out, I like to keep my looks low-key, and a simple vest top styled with a slip skirt helps me do just that.
Proof this staple can be dressed up or down.
Statement earrings are my after-dark accessory go-to.
Brown tones feel softer against pastel or lighter-hued outfits, making it a great alternative to black in this instance.
So pretty.
These have a padded sole for extra comfort.
Style Notes: Layering always makes an outfit look more interesting, and this vest loans itself to a myriad of pairings. My favourite? A breezy linen shirt.
Another M&S basic I can’t find fault with.
This vest is still thick enough to wear on its own.
Our editors agree—this is the most expensive-looking handbag on the high street.
Love these? Click through to see the matching waistcoat…
M&S’s autumn loafers are here, and they’re exceptional.
Next Up: I Shop for a Living—I’d Recommend These 30 New-In Pieces to Anyone
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