... in thinking the M & S 'Leading Ladies' ad campaign won't shift their clothes

[oldgrandmama]

Been looking at the photos again. Dark, dreary and, to be honest, frumpy clothes and as for the 'Leading Ladies', would any of them be seen dead in M & S 'fashion'? I know Annie Lebonwitz, arguably one of the best photographers in the world, took the pictures, but really ... whose bright idea was it to have this campaign? Bring back Twiggy!

They had their style heyday in the eighties, it's been going steadily downhill for decades. I used to love going to their Marble Arch shop and coming out with loads of stylish things. I only ever buy food there now. It's so sad.

I think the creative behind he campaign is actually really strong, the concept, the women chosen and the art direction is all very fresh and current, shame the clothes featured are without exception entirely yawnsome.

I have to say tho, OP, I really like that cashmere pointelle sweat you linked to! I'm a sucker for anything grey and wool though

I recently tried to buy a pair of black trousers in M&S. Just a good quality wardrobe basic - that's always what I want there.

Loads of choice for sure. But the choice was between badly cut and horrible materials.

Harum, they have cashmere pajama pants reduced from 90quid to 20 something, might be a nice treat. On my phone so can't link, but someone posted it on the Christmas bargains recently!

Oooh, thanks! That does sound like a potential lovely treat for me.

It's the simple classics that they get wrong, and I don't mean the sort they reserve for the older ladies. Everything has something added that doesn't quite work, a trim or an epaulette, or a faux summat. Classic well made trousers and skirts would be a start. Still love the lingerie but nightwear frumpy beyond belief

I can clearly remember the late 80s when that massive M&S opened at The Meadows in Camberley, Surrey. I used to literally fill baskets in there - cute 21" skirts, Chanel-inspired jackets, beautiful silk underwear. Loads of linen clothes, I remember it was all so stylish, I wanted everything.

What on earth happened? I struggle to like anything in there now.