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Above: dresses with sleeves from our autumn advertising campaign
Autumn is coming and for many of us that means a welcome update for our wardrobes. If you prefer elegant dresses with sleeves to strappy shift dresses then rest assured that M&S has plenty to choose from. From fitted, jersey dresses with 3/4 length sleeves to smart shirt dresses and feminine printed ones too, you should find a sleeved dress for any occasion from our wide range. Take a look at the dresses below for some style inspiration or shop more sleeved dresses here.
For a special occasion try one of these beautifully detailed, LBDs. From lace, to chiffon and satin, it’s all about luxurious textures to give your look the glam-factor.
 
For a chic, smart look try one of these gorgeous, figure-flattering shift dresses. Ideal for the office, lunch dates and day-to-evening dressing.
 
 
Have any of these dresses caught your eye? What style of dress do you find suits you best? Do let us know what you think by leaving a comment below.
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Comments77
On: 13 November 2012 Permalink
Longer dresses with sleeves are always a good idea but why oh why do you put tucks or gathers or other equally unflattering styles on them.I am 68 years young and am 5ft 3ins and a size 20…I must be the only person who shops at M&S who is this size because I always have to shorten hems and sleeves.Could you think about a new collection for us more mature ladies with lovely soft pretty colours i.e. baby blue which is a universally flattering shade for any age but especially for the more mature.Dresses with softer lines,remembering that a lot of us do have “middle aged spread” looser swing style coats and jackets ,less Black, Brown and Grey…so ageing ..give us pretty patterns not”Granny” styles..invite some of your customers to a “brain storming” and get some of their wants and needs..sometimes we amateurs have a good eye for fashion..I mean, who puts frills and flounces on size 22 figures…makes us look like a lampshade.but you do it every year!!!
Come on M&S give us all a chance to put you no 1 on the High Street with innovative, flattering designs for all ages.Would love to hear other clients agreeing with my comments.
On: 23 April 2013 Permalink
Im 42 years of age and a petite 5ft tall but I agree I hate all the frilly, ‘faffy’ bits (no straps, belts, buckles, studs and sometime cheap looking buttons).
That’s another thing, the public may want some of the catwalk styles/ideas, but not all of them, why cant M&S be a leader and take the plunge.
Why don’t you as some other customers have already mentioned; ask the Thousands of customers in-store and online to tell you what they really want, actually ask your customers or non-M&S shoppers for their ideas (the designers don’t always get it right) and you could still be in season and make a profit (whilst keeping prices reasonable), i don’t really think we mind, despite the fact that your paying someone to bring in the ideas already.
Oh, longer sleeves, longer lengths on dresses (tunics are a lovely idea), higher necklines, thin but not see through cottons, silks and viscose materials for the summer (i dont see why some of us have to buy a further layer i.e. a bolero or jacket in the warmer weather to cover up sleeveless bits, I do that on cottons etc in the autum and spring). I often go abroad to far hotter climates due to my husband working abroad so its not an option to go out and then to have to wear ANOTHER LAYER on top just so that I can feel modest.
I have three young boys so am always on the go but if I ever had the chance, I would love to offer my ideas… well I suppose I already have, haven’t I???
Thank you for your time.
On: 12 October 2012 Permalink
Your dresses with sleeves are a good idea. There are none there though that quite tick all my boxes. One thing I really like is drape – not cowl neck drape or folds-over-the-tummy drape but the sort of clothes the Danish wear – dresses with shape but with a little bit of a gather below the bust line, or a tulip shape skirt to create a flattering sillhouette. Fitted where it matters but with a little softness and ‘flow’ as well. Also, dresses which can be layered with a fine long sleeve tee shirt below are very useful. And above all else – pockets! – pockets are so much more than the sum of their parts: they help you stand with confidence and usually a garment with pockets is more softly tailored. Dresses need not be either business-like or all-concealing, there is a half-way house which is ideal.
On: 10 October 2012 Permalink
I think most of the styles are great and look flattering. However, I am disappointed in the colour choices. My colour code is Autumn and I cannot see anything in those shades.
On: 4 October 2012 Permalink
The animal spot print dress is just the style I love, but why such drab colours? I have a lovely M&S jersey dress from a couple of years ago in purple and black; V-neck, 3/4 sleeves, flared skirt just below the knee. Ever since I bought it, I’ve been looking for similar dresses, but drab colours do nothing for me!
On: 8 October 2012 Permalink
Hi Barbara, thank you for your comment. We share feedback left on M&S Stories with our buying and design team to help them improve ranges for the future. In the meantime we thought you might be interested in the sleeved dresses below…
Per Una Grid Stripe Print Mock Wrap Dress
http://www.marksandspencer.com/Crossover-V-Neck-Stripe-Print-Dress/dp/B008JMUHMM/ms_social
Per Una Pleated Neckline Leaf Print Dress
http://www.marksandspencer.com/Per-Una-Pleated-Neckline-Print/dp/B003DDFTC0/ms_social
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 29 September 2012 Permalink
I was quite thrilled to find your “dresses with sleeves” page and went straight to it. What a disappointment!!!!!! The only maxi dress had virtually no sleeves at all. I loved the summer maxi dresses that were made from fabric that did not crease and needed no ironing but not one had sleeves so I had to buy boleros to match. You had no matching colours so I had to go else where. All the year round I wear real long skirts, not calf length but floor length and you have provided a good selection this year. You also produced a t-shirt with elbow length sleeves but only in black and white. Please can we have some maxi dresses with sleeves for the winter and the same next summer. I am 70years old but am not ready yet for your “classic” range, all very dreary. My size is 20 so I have to search really hard in my prefered “Per Una” range. Usually all the largest sizes are out of stock! Most of my friends are large like me and have the same trouble getting clothes, we need M&S to start addressing our needs.
On: 8 October 2012 Permalink
Hi Valerie, thank you for your comment and we were disappointed to hear that you haven’t been able to find what you are looking for. We feed comments back to the buying and design teams to help them continually improve our collections so we appreciate you getting in touch to let us know your thoughts.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 26 September 2012 Permalink
Hello, I saw the dress in the top right hand corner of the pictures above. The one with the peter pan collar worn by the model with blonde hair, carrying a bag) in store but it wasn’t available in my size. However I can’t find it online. Any ideas?
On: 23 September 2012 Permalink
As a forty something & 5ft 7″ 10/12 I would like just below the knee dresses with 3/4 sleeves but not frumpy looking – could m&s do roland mouret style? Or in the fabric that Karen Millen make their dresses in that hold one in.
I recently tried on several dresses in m&s hoping to find one that suited for work. The one that fitted best was too short. Did try on some good proper knee length black boots that did actually come to the knee. Also with pencil skirts would love without a split in the back – perhaps with a panel there instead that kicks out – again KM did a fab one last season so I am sure M&S could.
p.s I bought some shoes from yourselves 2 seasons ago black with studs and every single time I wear them I have been complimented on them – several times from the teenagers in the school I work in. Now that really is saying something. We need dresses like those shoes!
On: 23 September 2012 Permalink
I have loved the straight dresses and bought quite a few ( all with a sleeve ) but would love some more bright colours.
Red,orange,turquoise, lime green. You do tend to have so many dark colours in at the moment and they can look so dismal. When the weather gets dull we do not need to follow it!
French navy is a brighter navy and I would love to see a dress in cornflower blue with french navy side panels.
I have especially loved your block colour dresses and the ones with a black strip down the sides are so slimming.
I would also like more limited editions. I dislike seeing people wearing the same dress as me.
On: 22 September 2012 Permalink
I love the snakeskin print dress design. I am 5 3 with a 34 G bust size and a tummy. I do not want to wear underwear that makes me feel trussed up like a chicken, I need to breathe. I am hoping that this dress when I receive it will flatter my unflattering body. If not any ideas would be welcome
On: 21 September 2012 Permalink
I am 5 foot eight ins. size 14. Not difficult. I used to buy Autograph the odd Limited Edition. Difficult now.
I shop mainly at the Castle Point Branch which seems to be sadly lacking in size 14, but loads of 20′s!
Last week I looked for a knitted top/jumper and possibly some cords. Sadly I came home empty handed. However I did find a dress, 3/4 sleeve and on the knee, from Woman. I confess, a wonderful find.
Who else sells things called “jeggings”?
I am at a loss, apart from Per Una”, to know the market you are targeting.
Not my 47 year old daughter, certainly not her teenage daughters and rarely, sadly ,me.
On: 20 September 2012 Permalink
Please can we have more long sleeved shift dresses (below the knee), which are also lined. Maybe wool or something similar.
On: 19 September 2012 Permalink
Some of the dresses over the past few months have been great designs and colours. I agree with the ladies here -longer lengths, please. I will love to get plenty of wear out of my purchases -work, church, parties etc. from all dresses I buy and not just the maxi lengths.
We work hard to climb the corporate ladder and will still like to dress smart and sensible. Be good role models in the workplace and not have all on show.
And do leave out the waist line thing, please!
On: 15 September 2012 Permalink
More dresses that *don’t* have a definitive/fixed waist (e.g. without a band, a belt/loops, a seam between different parts of fabric etc) would be great, because most dresses seem to have their ‘waist’ at a different height to mine!
Different length options for dresses (as with trousers) would also be great.
Thanks!
On: 7 September 2012 Permalink
I think most of the comments above say similar things, we want dresses designed to flatter slightly older women who know what they want and what suits them! 1/2-3/4 sleeves, around knee length- which of course means at least 3 length choice for the near 6 footers( ie me) to the near 5 footers! Not tight on the tummy but shaped just under the bust for flattery, oh and a variety of colours- not just fashion colours or recent ugly prints!
I would also like you to dump the “collection” because I don’t know what they are and it makes it massively harder to navigate your site!
On: 2 September 2012 Permalink
I have just found this page and never seen it before; it is better than Facebook! But how do I find it again? I must say you are gradually improving your delivery areas; thanks because it does save time collecting stuff locally. Also pleased to see you have enlarged your petites choices. One quick grumble to leave with; I cannot wear M&S shoes because your wider fit is not wide enough. Please do not print stuff in pale colours – older people cannot see them. This will make you laugh……your Gefilte fish balls are fantastic!! Could you do the same recipe unfried please in larger patties. It is a very smelly thing to make at home so we do not bother if we can buy it.
On: 30 August 2012 Permalink
I’ve bought a lot of dresses from M&S over the years and i’ve worn them again and again and still get lovely comments about them.
For autumn/winter I really like to wear a dress with a sleeve because I don’t want to cover up a lovely dress with a cardigan.
On: 25 August 2012 Permalink
It is nice to have modest dresses – 3/4 length sleeve works well and something that doesn’t look tarty at the front! (No offence meant). After all many of us are married and don’t want to be putting it all on show – we should also be considered and not just the people who prefer to have everything revealing.
This combination, plus finding something longer than a t-shirt is such a challenge that I rarely buy dresses, and not because I wouldn’t want to. Consider having options that make dresses more modest – e.g. a twin pack of suitable matching under tees/ shells for lower necklines works well.
Many of the dresses on the high street are only really tunics and can actually look quite nice with the right sort of trouser. I’d like to see that a bit more on the models,as I don’t find visualising all that easy.
Also, I think there is a place for cropped feminine trousers to go with dresses, especially if they have a decorative trim at the hem. I’d love there to be a more ‘put together’ look in terms of modest clothes, with a whole collection that includes layering items. After all, it isn’t just religious people that prefer to be more covered- lots of ladies prefer a more modest option where it exists, but we tend to be poorly catered for. Proper modest swimsuits would be a complete bonus too.
On: 21 August 2012 Permalink
With few alternatives elsewhere, I have purchased some of your so-called “popular” wrap dresses as they have sleeves, but they have all been quite skimpy, not well cut and the material often looks cheap. I would rather pay a bit more for a well cut, plain, or almost plain dress, in a variety of colours. On the rare occasion I have a found a dress I really like, it is invariably only in one colour. Sadly, there is nothing in the latest range I would want to buy.
On: 16 August 2012 Permalink
I like dresses with sleeves (for warmth) in the autumn/winter, so it is helpful to have these brought to my attention. However, I like to have dresses which go in at the waist – a tie or a belt or something – as that helps me to look shapely. I also agree with other customers about not having dresses too short. I would like to wear them to work so they need to look smart, and not too raunchy!
On: 6 August 2012 Permalink
what disappointing patterns on these dresses, very old fashioned and boring patterns, if autumn is bringing us these colours its going to very drab……glad about sleeves but the patterns are the sort very old grannies might wear!
On: 3 August 2012 Permalink
I got all excited when I saw this post – I always wear skirts or dresses but why are there so many 3/4 length sleeves? Hideous, dated and rarely flattering on anyone. Short sleeves or full length sleeves – there are no long sleeves here. Very disappointing. Should be a basic.
Good to see there are at last some dresses on the knee and not above it though.
On: 24 June 2012 Permalink
Hi, I am 5.8″ and like to wear dresses mid calf, or would do if I could find any. I have managed to cut down a couple of maxi dresses suitable for holidays but it is hard to find maxis that are not too loud or too low. Please please can we have longer length dresses without plunging necklines, with short or long sleeves, with quieter patterns or in quality plain fabrics. Add a lining and you would have perfection! Many thanks.
On: 27 June 2012 Permalink
Hi Jane, thank you for your comment. We’ll definitely feed back your concerns to the buying team.
We’ve found some styles on our website which we hope you’ll like…
per una floral dress: http://www.marksandspencer.com/Per-Una-Empire-Floral-Print/dp/B007X9EX5O
per una red floral dress: http://www.marksandspencer.com/Per-Una-Sleeve-Floral-Print/dp/B002F7PQ0K
Have you tried our skirts department too?
This pleated skirt from Autograph could be just the right length for you: http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Floral-Print-Pleated-Skirt/dp/B00849LJXG
Plain Autograph skirt: http://www.marksandspencer.com/Autograph-Linen-Blend-Satin-Skirt/dp/B007U0ETSW
White per una skirt: http://www.marksandspencer.com/Per-Una-Cotton-Appliqu%C3%A9-Embroidered/dp/B0032GR9TO
We do hope that helps.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 19 June 2012 Permalink
I would love to see some of these a little bit longer (NOT calf length or maxi, just on the knee) but the longer ones here are just frumpy. Even Jerry Hall says ladies over 40 dont look good in mini dresses – yet here we have dresses with sleeves, targeting the slightly more mature figure, but still so short. On the knee would be just great. I love the geometric and colour block dresses (not shown here) but they are SO short.
On: 18 June 2012 Permalink
Thanks to everyone who has left a comment. In terms of dress lengths, M&S offers a wide selection of lengths across all our women’s brands. If you are looking for longer, maxi or midi styles then Per Una and Autograph will usually have the best range of styles.
The majority of dresses within M&S woman are on the knee or just below, but lengths will vary depending on your height so it may be that a dress is longer or shorter on you, once you try it on. We appreciate more styles with different length options would be useful and will take that on board for future collections.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 23 April 2013 Permalink
Why do I feel I have no option but to shop at Per Una or Autograph range of clothing, its limited and often the stock is so low in the sizes that usually fit me (10,12 and my sister agrees she’s 12, 14)
= (
On: 16 June 2012 Permalink
Agree with many of the comments above about sleeves and quality of materials. Am at bit worried that so many want calf length. I have the opposite problem, being only 5’3”, I find often cannot buy an item because it is simply too long. Prefer most dresses and skirts to bottom of knee. Only some items come in a choice of lengths and often not ones I like best. Also some lovely cotton print skirts in Per Una this season but with cotton linings which cling. Would prefer satin type lining. Prefer dresses in materials that do not ‘Cling’ showing every figure fault.
On: 15 June 2012 Permalink
Why can’t you do more dresses/tops with sleeves of some description? I can’t be the only lady who would purchase more items if they covered this area, which I am sensitive about. I love many things but do not consider them because I would need a cardigan or shrug and then would lose the beauty of the outfit. I am sure your sales would go up if your design team bore this in mind.
On: 27 June 2012 Permalink
Hi Melanie, thank you for your comment.
We have a category online on our website to make it easier to find our sleeved dresses: http://www.marksandspencer.com/Sleeved-Dresses-Dresses-Womens/b/1744374031
There are new styles coming in all the time, so it’s worth checking back often. We’re sure there will be something to suit you. Towards the end of July our Autumn ranges will start arriving so that would be a great time to browse as we’ll likely have an even bigger range of dresses with sleeves.
We hope that helps.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 15 June 2012 Permalink
I agree wholeheartedly re sleeves. I have two dresses this season which I love – elbow length sleeves. Some of your colours are rather garish this season and the quality needs to be retained. M&S have always been good for quality but some tat is appearing.
On: 15 June 2012 Permalink
Sleeves: Agree with the need for elbow-ish length sleeves.
Dress length: Certainly don’t need the dresses themselves to be any longer.
Neckline: Usually far too low. (I’m 5 ‘ and size 8). Sometimes petite is better.
Fabric: I’m really not keen on wearing fabrics in summer that need a lining, Otherwise, if the price reflects the quality, there’s a place for both man made and natural.
Colour: More black, please.You seem to get your colours so wrong (see the sale racks).
On: 14 June 2012 Permalink
I wholeheartedly echo the ‘short or 3/4 length sleeve’ issue. I am fed up with sleeveless or cap sleeves tops and dresses, and like so many others, why do necklines have to be so low?! I have invested in some modesty panels, but higher necklines would be better! I notice that The Stories Team responded to the bra comment, but not specifically the Big Sleeve Issue!
On: 14 June 2012 Permalink
Hi Clare, thank you for your comment.
We are passing on all feedback received here to our buying team and, along with our regular focus groups, this information will help us to continue improving ranges for our customers. We are working with the dresses team to get some more specific answers to the concerns raised too. Thanks again to everyone who has taken the time to leave a comment, we really do value your opinions.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 10 June 2012 Permalink
Marks do not take on board what the customer wants,been asking for minimiser bra’s in different colours for three years,buy mine elsewher for that reason.
On: 13 June 2012 Permalink
Hi Sylvia, thank you for your comment.
I’ve spoken to the buying team for bras and they will be introducing a fashion colour to the range along with a printed style for future collections. The teams do work quite far ahead though so these won’t be available this season unfortunately. We are definitely taking on board everyone’s comments so thanks again for taking the time to let us know what you think.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 10 June 2012 Permalink
How lovely to hear all you ladies think the same as me. As we know 50 is the new 30 but whilst we baby boomers all remain 30 in our brains, our bodies arent in synch. PLEASE M and S, how many of us have to say it – longer sleeves, not low necklines and oh yes, the elegance of calf length skirts and dresses but not in frumpy styles! There are some lovely dresses on your site but the lengths arent right for us older ladies – surely you could provide modern styles with a variety of lengths?
On: 10 June 2012 Permalink
I would love to have a bright colour maxi dress with sleeves. There are virtually none available. I would also like to see some classic styles in bright colours with 3/4 sleeves. Pretty tops that cover the hips with 3/4 length sleeves would also be very welcome. Thanks for listening.
On: 10 June 2012 Permalink
Could we please have more v necks in dresses? I do not suit the cross over style even though I have a bigger bust.
On: 28 June 2012 Permalink
Hi Lin, thanks for your comment.
We just wanted to let you know that we’ve had two lovely printed maxi dresses with sleeves arrive this week that you might like:
Per Una Speziale Abstract Print Maxi Dress:
http://www.marksandspencer.com/Speziale-Abstract-Print-Maxi-Dress/dp/B0039W5UJM
Animal Print A-Line Shirt Maxi Dress:
http://www.marksandspencer.com/Animal-Print-A-Line-Shirt-Dress/dp/B00860H9V4
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 26 August 2012 Permalink
I tried the Animal A-line Print shirt dress, but as usual being 5 foot 7 it just was not quite long enough (rolls eyes..how often have I said this?). I wanted to wear it in the Autumn with boots, but then you get that ugly gap between boot and skirt when it’s too short!
In precis M&S: less fuddy duddy frills, more A lines for us pear-shaped gals, natural fabrics, below knee dresses, longer bell shaped sleeves and if you must insist on churning out those jersey dresses with sleeves, why not flare the sleeve at the bottom slightly to make it more flattering?
Loving the new knitted tunics though. They look great with leggings and boots.
On: 8 June 2012 Permalink
Oh how I agree with all the other comments! What would I give for an easy-to-wear dress with longer short sleeves/elbow length sleeves which ends below the knee? I don’t even mind man-made fibres, but would prefer mixes, polycotton, linenblend etc which make natural fabrics easier to care for and more crease resistant – I never buy pure linen because it looks awful after about 10 minutes. Please don’t give us ‘old lady’ colours, e.g. awful greens, dark lilac. Pretty pastels and bright colours in plains and prints are what we are looking for please. As a previous lady said, we are still 21 at heart and, although we know not to wear most things designed for 21 year olds, we still want up-to-date clothes which suit us. I love per una and would buy much more if I could get the sleeve and hem length I need. Also, don’t forget the underwear – full cover pretty bras with good uplift and shape please with seamfree lightly padded cups for plain tops/dresses. Another suggestion, seriously consider how many customers for these styles are still size 8, 10 or 12? Judging by how many of these sizes reach the sales, less of them and more of size 14 upwards would be better.
I know it is too late for this summer, but please, listen to our suggestions, provide the styles and colours and see just how many satisfied customers are out there spreading the M&S word, and I’m sure they won’t all be over 40!!
On: 8 June 2012 Permalink
I would look for a dress with imaginative elbow length sleeves. Many of us older ladies now have to hide the tops of our arms. I woud also like a fitted bodice with a flowing fuller skirt, ala 50′s style, which is flattering to the figure. Neck line not so important as you can always use a pretty scarf. Also brighter colors, black is so aging, so pinks, apricots, pastel blues, yellows. Failing elbow length sleeves, what about some crochet bolero button up tops, which you can slip over a sleeveless dress or t shirt. Ideal for the summer. As I am sure most of your customers are 40+, flatter us by showing off our best bits which dont age so badly. e.g. lower legs, backs, lower arms, just show peeps of upper arms with perhaps slit sleeves. Many of us are still 21 in the brain, but the body has a different idea. Thanks for asking for our ideas.
On: 7 June 2012 Permalink
I logged on to your site and checked out the dresses all of the ones I looked at were out of stock in my size 18/20 some in the sale which I can understand that they had sold quickly however for example the Waist Tie Revere Collar Shirt Dress was also out of stock – will you get these in again or will it be a case of trouping around the midlands to see if any of the stores have them in.
On: 18 June 2012 Permalink
Hi Carole, thanks for your comment.
We try to feature styles with good size availability, however sometimes certain sizes do sell quickly so we apologise for the disappointment. You might like to view our wider range of sleeved dresses here: http://www.marksandspencer.com/Sleeved-Dresses-Dresses-Womens/b/1744374031 – If you click ‘View all sizes’ on the left hand menu under the heading ‘Narrow by Size’, you’ll be able to see all the styles that are available in your size.
Alternatively, if you have a specific dress in mind, do take a note of the product code and you can get in touch with your local store to see if they have it. Store details are available here: http://www.marksandspencer.com/gp/store-locator
We hope that helps.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 7 June 2012 Permalink
I love M and S but it seems to me and my friends that you forget the age group that made you popular. Ie post war generation. I don’t feel old enough for the Classic range yet, love Per Una but then find sleeves and lengths that rule them out.
Come on M and S, test some of the styles with an age panel at the design stage.
On: 7 June 2012 Permalink
I’ll second that.
On: 6 June 2012 Permalink
I would like dresses below knee or maxi. Scoop, boat or square neck, and not too low, we don’t all want to show acres of flesh. 3/4 or long sleeves please. Cap sleeves and ones which finish just above the (wrinkly) elbows are an absolute no-no! The previous suggestion about little matching jackets is a good one, but that shouldn’t be an excuse for not supplying longer sleeves! I searched M&S in vain for a long dress for a wedding and got a gorgeous one with 3/4 sleeves in Debenhams.
On: 1 June 2012 Permalink
Simple dresses with sleeves, knee length or just below the knee in COTTON – Autograph floral mirror print dress above is just great – more please in plain colour cottons, which can be dressed up with scarves and jewellery would be such a big seller – M&S are missing a trick here as they should just fly off the hangers!! No other store has these and believe me I have searched high and low.
On: 31 May 2012 Permalink
For years I have been looking for dresses with short or 3/4 sleeves. They need to be below the knee, preferably mid-calf. Like many other women, I don’t want a low and revealing neckline either. A good quality cotton would be a bonus or a good quality fabric at least. As mentioned before, sizes 12 and 14 sell out quickly, so obviously more of these sizes should be stocked.
Plain colour dresses are useful and more tasteful – you can then dress them up if you wish with a scarf or jewellery. A subtle print in good colours would be OK. I really don’t like any of the printed fabrics shown above. The first row of prints look like “check-out number three please” I’m sorry to say (staff uniforms) and wouldn’t flatter anyone.
I’m so glad you are doing this survey. If you listen to us all you will certainly make a lot of money as everyone I know talks about this problem. We all want beautiful colours, sleeves, longer length, good fabric dresses. Thank you so much
On: 9 June 2012 Permalink
Here, here! Response to lady who wished to see more dresses in natural fabrics (not chiffon or polyester) with 3/4 sleeves or longer “short” sleeves (fed up with everything being sleeveless), which come just below the knee or longer (I’m 5ft 8in tall) and in a size 14, which always sells out first. All my lady friends have been requesting these dresses for years, but the designers take no notice. It would be nice to be fashionable in lovely fabrics and styles, without having to wear frumpy, mumsy dresses which seem to be almost the only ones with sleeves and in a good length.
On: 31 May 2012 Permalink
I would like to be able to buy some button through,short sleeved dresses to wear anytime.A good old style tea dress is very hard to find. I love to order from M&S on line and pick up in my local store,it is a super service. Thankyou
On: 30 May 2012 Permalink
Dear M&S
I love the look of your clothes, but please make more of them in natural fabrics. So many of them are made of polyester, and it is not pleasant to wear, especially in the summer. It’s really disappointing to see a nice dress or top, and then to discover it is made from a synthetic fabric, yuk! Thank you so much in advance!!
On: 7 June 2012 Permalink
I agree that more natural fabrics would be great. It is so awful wearing ‘sticky’ fabrics when it is warm. You have also stopped some of your great underwear that used to come in high cotton content. Particularly midi briefs. The design still exists but not the fabric.
On: 18 June 2012 Permalink
Hi Sue, Thanks for your comment.
We always make sure there are natural fabrics available within our womenswear range, as well as styles to suit smaller budgets too. The best ranges for natural or luxury fabrics are Speziale and Autograph.
Within M&S Woman we have a wide selection of jersey dresses which are easy and flattering to wear and made from natural fabrics, in addition to a range of 100% linen and linen-mix styles. Also, do look out for some smarter 100% cotton styles arriving at the end of this month which we hope you’ll like.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 13 September 2012 Permalink
I always make for M and S when in the UK and also buy on line .I have 3, super looking pure linen summer dresses which have to stay in the wardrobe and are on their way to the charity shop because the polyester lining makes them impossible to wear in a hot climate .A pure cotton lining would be perfect .I like A line loose ,short dresses and do wear sleeveless and strappy dresses in the heat ,although I agree that a short sleeve is more elegant and in a natural fibre is very wearable .
On: 28 May 2012 Permalink
Hi M & S,
Firstly, thank you for your marvellous service and quality.
Bearing in mind your particular market niche, it might be a good idea to stock more dresses with small sleeves for the summer and/or , as someone suggested, some with short jackets. I have often wondered why you have missed this need for the 35 upwards female customer. Am certain it would help boost customer interest.
Please, please include some Autograph in your Lincoln store….special pleading. Thank you again for all you do.
On: 27 May 2012 Permalink
There are so many of us asking for summer dresses with sleeves which also finish below the knee and I would also like to see necklines not quite so low. When you do manage to track one of these dresses down (whether it be M & S or another stores) the 12 and 14 sizes are nearly always sold out. Surely the buying teams should make note of this !
On: 24 May 2012 Permalink
I would like to see more dresses with slighly longer sleeves.Sleeveless dresses or cap sleeves are not always suitable for some occasions.
Summer dresses with matching jackets would also be a good idea
On: 4 August 2012 Permalink
Yes, yes, yes. Dresses with elbow length or slightly shorter for summer and 3/4 length for the autumn/winter. If dresses have to be sleeveless, please as Gill says, make a matching jacket/bolero to go over the top. Most women do not like the tops of their arms. When are dress designers going to get this message.
On: 23 May 2012 Permalink
I like dresses that come below the knee, fitted but not tight, scooped neck line and 3/4 sleeves. All to conceal a less than perfect shape – oh dear!
On: 10 June 2012 Permalink
I like dresses that comes below the knee but I am afraid they are non excistent,they are either very short or very long or just above the knees but never below the knee,
On: 14 June 2012 Permalink
I agree please, please think about those of us who do not have Twiggy figures and like longer dresses, at least mid calf, and also more with short sleeves. Cater for women with more generous curves, ok plus sized if I am honest and you will corner the market as your designs and materials are excellent.
On: 15 June 2012 Permalink
I like dresses that fall just below the knee. M&S have let us ladies down of a certain age and gone for the younger generation. I see so many pretty dresses and when I try them on they are much to short. please M&S give us a choice of length. I am age 70 size 12 and I still like to wear pretty cloths LIKE TWIGGY …and I would if they weren’t TO SHORT.
On: 18 June 2012 Permalink
We are very conscious of offering a range of sleeve styles and lengths for our customers. We do stock more sleeveless styles in the summer, but there are longer sleeves and ¾ sleeves available on many of our dresses, particularly on our popular jersey wrap dresses.
Towards the end of July the sleeve length will get longer across the majority of our styles. We hope you all find something to suit you from the coming collections, and we thank you for your feedback which we are taking on board to improve collections in future.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 29 September 2012 Permalink
May I make a request for more clothes with collars , they are much more flattering to less than perfect necks than collarless styles but they are hard to find. I suspect this has something to do with production costs.
On: 8 October 2012 Permalink
Hi Pat, thank you for your comment. We will feed your thoughts back to the buying and design teams. There could be a number of reasons why there are fewer collars at the moment, but our teams do take into account past sales figures when deciding on the range.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 11 October 2012 Permalink
Dear Stories team,
Thank you for listening to customer comments. I agree with these comments. Ladies of a certain age need sleeves, three quarter sleeves are the most flattering, scoop necks are softer on us and a bit of stretch in the fabric helps get the dresses over our bumps and lumps. Please bear in mind that busts are getting larger in all the population and dresses that are too low cut are not so sexy on the more mature of us, as they are on your younger customers. Another fashion no no in my eyes is cap sleeves, they just make arms look fat, please bear that in mind when your designers get together.
Just a final note, Marks and Spencers for all it’s critics do get it right most of the time. I for one buy most of my clothes from you, for your quality, style, choice and value for money, please keep it up,
On: 27 June 2012 Permalink
I have lived in Spain now for 26 years. Before I came here and just after I used to buy lots of summer, A-line, knee length, strappy dresses. All made from 100% viscose. Lovely cool fabrics, hardly creased, and very pretty designs. Because you stopped selling this type of dress I still wear these same dresses and after years and years they still look as good. I have a supermarket here and I am constantly getting asked where I buy my dresses and they cannot believe that I have had them so long. Suddenly the dress length was longer in your shops and since then I have seen nothing similar except beach dresses with plunging necklines that I cannot wear for work. Every year my first port of call is M & S and each time I am so disappointed in what I see. I love the colours of the Per Una, but not the length and all the frills. Please, please bring back those lovely dresses. The patterns are still not dated.
On: 10 July 2012 Permalink
Hi Julie, thanks for your feedback.
It’s a very competitive market for womenswear at the moment and we are constantly reviewing our collections. All feedback is given to the relevant departments to consider for future seasons. Thanks again for taking the time to leave us a comment.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 10 August 2012 Permalink
I wish I could find comfortable, smart, but stylish clothes. i love cotton jersey its very versatile and comfortable. I once had a dress from M&S it had a cotton jersey top boat neck, cap sleeve.The skirt with slit pockets, was tulip shape had a very colourful fish design on black ground. I loved that dress. I also have a pure wool shawl, no fringe just a very good shape. Believe it or not its got a St Michaels label. Everyon who sees it wants to know where i bought it from. It frustrates me when i come to your store with the amount of footfall you could be THE shop for stylish mature ladieswho’s ‘sell buy’ date has not yet arrived. My friend and I visited your Pudsey store. I don’t want to be rude but come on M&S your having a laugh!
On: 22 August 2012 Permalink
Hi Pauline, thank you for taking the time to leave a comment. We pass on feedback to the relevant buying and design teams for their consideration and this, along with regular focus groups, will help us improve our collections in future.
Regards
The Stories Team
On: 7 September 2012 Permalink
Agree with all the sleeves please comments. Can you use heavier jersey for dresses- so they don’t cling. If you made classic styles in quality materials with lining you may find your customers will pay more for the right items. Plain colours, good quality natural fabrics, linings, sleeves and more flattering styles for those women with curves, and busts, ie real women. Putting coordinated stories of items in toning colours and put the accessories next to them. We haven’t all got lots of time to trawl through every department. Keep it simple, classic and coordinated. Make shopping a joy not a chore.
Per una too many patterns, frills embellishment.
On: 20 October 2012 Permalink
I agree with so many of the other comments about sleeve length and hem length. Why can’t you come up with a range of plain simple dresses with a choice of necklines plus sleeve and hem lengths, together with colour choices. Also, we all want to look like a ‘pea in a valve rubber’ when we don’t have a perfect figure, so can we have dresses with flared skirts too? You have always provided a choice of hem lengths for skirts alone, so why not for dresses?
On: 22 October 2012 Permalink
Me too! I am always desperately trying to find casual, flowing, soft material dresses, with below the knee or on the knee length and long sleeves….impossible! I don’t want to look like an overdressed office worker or coporate power dresser, just more of a hippy chick…nothing ever to find here…the most boring and conservative stylse I have ever seen and not just M&S which I buy for comfort and quality…..
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