10 summer dresses from M&S that’ll have you saying ‘Mumsnet made me buy’

Summer is right around the corner, meaning it’s time to refresh your warm weather wardrobe. If you’re in need of some new summer dresses, look no further than M&S. The high street retailer has caught the attention of many a Mumsnetter recently, and their summer offerings are getting rave reviews from our users. 

So, whether you need a casual sundress for running errands, a comfortable midi for the office, or something a bit more dressier for a night out, we’re sure you’ll find what you need at M&S this season. 

Being our usual helpful selves, we’ve handpicked some of the best recommendations over on our Style and beauty board. From lightweight linens to bold, geometric designs, these are the summer dresses getting top marks from our style-savvy members. 

Let’s start with this pure cotton Per Una tiered dress. It’s designed with a regular fit from breathable, pure cotton that you can accessorise in any way for day and night. 

Per Una Pure Cotton Textured Notch Neck Tiered Dress, £40 | Buy now from M&S

Mumsnet seal of approval: “I got a couple of really nice summery dresses from M & S last year, it's one of my go to shops now, which I would never thought I would say a few years ago!” Sagittarius

Crafted from cupro-blend fabric that’s soft and luxurious, this regular fit Per Una midi dress is super versatile and elegant and will last for several summers. 

Per Una Cupro Blend Printed Midi Waisted Dress, £69 | Buy now from M&S

Mumsnet seal of approval: “I've bought this, it's so versatile with smart sandals for an evening out or flats for a more casual look. I love tiers, perhaps being a child of the 60s has something to do with it.” GettingStuffed

Read also: Summer wedding guest dresses perfect for a church ceremony

If your vibe is less Barbie, more Wednesday, that doesn’t mean you should avoid summer dresses. Particularly when you can pick up pieces like this pure cotton, square neck midaxi dress by M&S Collection. 

M&S Collection Pure Cotton Square Neck Midaxi Dress, £45 | Buy now from M&S

Mumsnet seal of approval: “I am a [size] 16 and just ordered this and find it really flattering and can be dressed up or down with accessories. In black not the cream pic shown below. I think it looks much better on than shown in the photo.” Moirarosesgarden

This pure Irish linen Autograph dress is as luxurious as it looks. The flattering midaxi-length is perfect for any formal occasion this summer and we’re sure it’ll become a go-to investment piece in your wardrobe. 

Autograph Pure Irish Linen Square Neck Midaxi Dress, £79 | Buy now from M&S

Mumsnet seal of approval: “I would look for a floaty cotton or linen dress, something classy but easy going. Low wedge sandals or nice trainers. I really like this from M and S. Their Autograph stuff looks expensive but isn't.” Movinghouseatlast

Read also: Summer wedding guest dresses for destination weddings

Have a summer wedding or special event to attend? This Finery London crepe puff sleeve midi tea dress exudes elegance and sophistication.

Finery London Stain Crepe Puff Sleeve Midi Tea Dress, £69 | Buy now from M&S

Mumsnet seal of approval: “Yes, the last dress from m and s is the best. It’s classy and gives that pop of colour under the black.” Riverlee

You can’t beat a classic shift style during summer, particularly when it’s made of linen. This breezy linen shift dress by M&S Collection is easy-to-wear and combines both classic and contemporary styles. 

M&S Collection Linen Rich Knee Length Shift Dress, £30 | Buy now from M&S

Mumsnet seal of approval: “Had the discussion with my hairdresser recently...Are we getting old? Or has M&S got more stylish?!” scoobycute

This Nobody’s Child dress is made from lightweight pure cotton that’s cool and comfortable for warm days. But it’s worth noting that the brand’s designs are cut to a form-fitting shape, so if you want a more relaxed shape, size up. 

Nobody’s Child Pure Cotton Textured Midaxi Waisted Dress, £85 | Buy now from M&S

Mumsnet seal of approval: “That dress [by Nobody’s Child] from M&S is gorgeous, I'm very tempted!” Imatorturedpoet

Our team at MNHQ share their top choices

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About the author

Rebecca Roberts is a writer, editor, and content marketing expert hailing from Leeds. Here at Mumsnet, she commissions, writes, and edits to bring parents content designed to make life easier. After birthing and breastfeeding two babies in two years, Rebecca knows first-hand how hard it can be to prioritise yourself when you become a mother. So, she’s on a quest to find the best beauty and fashion products that are both practical and affordable, with the help of Mumsnet user recommendations. 

Beyond her role as an editor here at Mumsnet, Rebecca can be found balancing life as a working mum of two toddlers and when she’s not at her desk, you’ll likely find her at a local playgroup, in a nearby coffee shop, or walking the dog up and down country lanes.

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