It’s always best to be quick when you spot a trending piece on Marks and Spencer as it can go out of stock in the blink of an eye. One sell-out item that was recently restocked at the retailer is an elegant black dress for under £30.
The Asymmetric Ruched Midaxi Bodycon Dress, £29.50, from the M&S Collection was launched as part of the spring-summer range. Fashion fans loved it so much that it was sold out for months – until now.
Our fashion reporter Bethan Shufflebotham couldn’t find her size but given the stretchy nature of the dress, she gave a smaller size six a go and said: “I haven’t worn a size six since around 2016, so I was completely taken aback when I not only managed to put it on without needing assistance from a shop assistant, but also – and I don’t often say this about myself – it looked fantastic.”
A woman in her 60s was shocked when she tried it on and gave a five-star rating, commenting: “Don’t think I didn’t think I could wear something like this but I tried it and wow! Love it and I’m in my 60s. Skims the stomach, do have shapewear on tho, I bought the cornflower blue one too. Size 14 fits true to size.”
This dress is a hit for so many reasons. At £29.50, it is a budget-friendly option that promises to be a versatile staple in your wardrobe. The perfect elevated basic for everyday wear, it effortlessly pairs with trainers or sandals, yet can also be amped up with heels for those extra-special occasions like holidays and romantic evenings out.
The piece is made from a soft, stretchy material and features a modern asymmetric neckline that adds a touch of elegance to the design. The bodycon style flatters without ever feeling too tight or uncomfortable, contouring gracefully rather than squeezing you into your clothes.
Additionally, it comes with waist ruching which neatly disguises the tummy area, providing that subtle boost of confidence many of us crave.
With sizes varying from six to 24 and available in petite, regular, and tall lengths, this dress ensures that everyone can find their perfect fit. And the proof is in the popularity it has secured a stellar 4.2 star rating from shoppers of diverse ages.
One particularly satisfied customer revealed that the generous stretch of the dress accommodated her baby bump beautifully, stating: “Really nice dress so comfy currently 9 months pregnant and size 10 fit perfect.”
“Such a classic dress,” one shopper praised. “Looks great on, good length and stretches nicely as it’s fitted, but doesn’t feel clingy/restricted and yes, like the other reviews, I did buy a pair of tummy control underwear. The best feature was the neck line. Love it.”
Others have recommended opting for a smaller size due to the ‘generous’ fit of the ensemble, adding: “Great dress for its price. It fits nicely. Very elegant asymmetric cut. I had to go down a couple of sizes, as the stretch is quite generous.”
Another customer noted that it was “a little loose on the arms but otherwise fits nicely”. One complained that the material is “very cheap and clingy” and another said she’s “not keen on the fabric”.
But, the dress doesn’t crease, making it an absolute godsend for holiday packing. Simply roll it up in your suitcase, and you’re ready to go – no need for a steamer or iron when you reach your destination.
Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, M&S has launched the dress in a bold leopard print. This is an ideal way to make a statement while maintaining the same flattering fit that everyone loves, and the all-over animal print design will further hide any ‘lumps and bumps’.
In other news, athleisure brand Tala is offering a similar slimming and shaping dress. The 365 Ruched Side Boat Neck Maxi Dress is designed to highlight curves, even if you don’t particularly have any, like myself.
The double-layered dress is ruched just like M&S’, and the top provides support so you can confidently go braless. Available in sizes 2XS to 4XL, this dress is giving Kim Kardashian’s Skims a run for their money, with their dresses priced at £80, compared to Tala’s, which is £69.
For a sleeved version, New Look’s Black Stretch Cotton Bodycon Midi Dress could be one for shoppers looking for a bit more coverage on the arms. It’s currently on sale and you can get it for £13.49.
