Earlier this year, I penned an ode to M&S’s brilliant shoe offering, likening its sandals, slingbacks and ballet pumps to the British retailer’s excellent three-for-£8 picky bits deal and viral loaded dips (a subject I also feel strongly about). But now that the blissful summer months are a distant memory and the back-to-work rotation is in full swing, my attention has turned to another department in the hallowed halls of Marks & Sparks: handbags.
Much like shoes, when it comes to identifying hard-wearing staples, the proof is in the pudding. Cram a bag full, sling it over your shoulder and bump it around on the tube for long enough, and you’ll soon know whether it’s a worthy investment. And I can confidently say that there are certain M&S styles that fit the bill. So much so, they made it into my definitive edit of the five bags we’ll be seeing everywhere this autumn, sitting alongside cult favourites like Coach and Dragon Diffusion and luxury legend Gucci – quite the feat for “mumsy” M&S.
Like with any affordable buy, I’m inclined to avoid flimsy faux leather where possible, and instead look for more durable fabrics like suede, leather and nylon. M&S has lots of elevated options like the new-in suede bowling bag, which was first seen on the brand’s debut London Fashion Week runway, and the roomy suede bucket bag, which comes in a covetable smoky-grey shade.
M&S also has some great styles cut from nylon, a bag texture I find myself drawn to, thanks to its utilitarian, ’90s Prada feel and splash-proof durability. My personal favourite is the conveniently wipe-clean tote bag, which fits a laptop and also has a zip – a rarity in the tote bag world, it seems. They also currently have a technical drawstring shoulder bag online, which has the perfect scrunched-up feel to it, and comes in navy and deep red.
As for more playful styles, the retailer’s satin pouch would make the perfect winter wedding-guest companion, particularly for those who are looking for something elevated without spending a fortune. Elsewhere, the oversized gingham shopper is made for weekend strolls around your local market, but would also withstand a big weekly shop.
Whichever style you’re in need of this autumn, scroll on to discover our edit of the very best M&S bags.
The boxy bowling bag
This suede bowling bag has that boxy, ’90s-inspired shape that’s experienced a revival over the past few seasons. First spotted on M&S’s debut London Fashion Week runway, it’s a polished everyday option that feels considerably more expensive than its high-street price tag.
Suede Double Zip Top-Handle Bowler Bag
The practical work bag
A clever option for the commute, this technical shoulder bag is the perfect laptop-friendly work carryall – with a zip closure to boot!
The party pouch
For weddings, parties and any occasion that calls for something a little more elevated, this softly gathered pouch feels more directional than your average clutch, while the compact size means it won’t weigh you down.
The bucket bag
A roomy bucket bag is one of those silhouettes that is particularly well suited to everyday life, and this slouchy, suede version in a smoky-grey hue is a softer alternative to the usual black leather styles.
The technical shoulder bag
For something a little more utilitarian, this technical shoulder bag’s drawstring detailing gives it that satisfyingly scrunched-up finish, while the lightweight fabric makes it a practical choice for days when you’d rather not lug around a heavy leather handbag.
The playful shopper
Proof that practical shoppers needn’t be boring, this oversized gingham style brings a little countryside charm to the weekly supermarket run.
