To say Marks & Spencer has an enviable heritage is, frankly, stating the obvious, with nearly 140 years of trading under its belt. As the UK’s largest clothing retailer, it’s no wonder the vast majority of us in this country own at least one item of their clothing in our wardrobes. M&S have recently launched their limited-edition M&S Originals collection. The specifically curated collection of twenty-five hero items, reimagines archive pieces fit for 2021 to highlight M&S’ unique British design and the renewed interest in vintage, with a focus on more sustainable materials and responsible processes.
The Originals collection focuses on reinvested styles inspired by pieces from the M&S archive in Permanently housed at Leeds University. These iconic archive pieces have been reworked in modern cuts with renewed considered details with a confident and easy approach to style. The collection revives styles that are just as relevant today, from wool pleat trousers to a patch-pocket British wool worker jacket and a modern cut blazer in Harris tweed. Loose fit recycled cotton denim, a raglan sleeve oxford shirt and undyed organic cotton t-shirts and rugby’s are modernised through cut, fit, and attention to detail. The waterproof leather Chelsea Boot is also reworked in a modern silhouette for an updated take on this classic wardrobe staple.
The knitwear range revives iconic classics. Many knitwear pieces from the first archive edition are made from responsibly sourced pure merino and Lambswool and include modern loose fit cardigans, chunky Aran cable tanks and crewnecks alongside a fisherman Gansey, and a heritage fairisle featuring a patch pocket in a modern palette of team red, airforce blue and cream.
Each piece from the collection is made with care, using more sustainably sourced materials including natural wools, organic cottons and recycled fabrics, linings, buttons and threads that have a low impact on the environment.
