Jo Good proves styling is everything when it comes to elevated M&S jeans this autumn
The star is a pro when it comes to high street finds
Marks and Spencer’s current collection is filled with hero buys, but the denim in particular has really grabbed our attention. There are an impressive number of styles, fits and lengths available, and to get some handy shopping inspiration, we set style influencer Jo Good a fashion challenge – to style three totally different types of M&S jeans.
Of course, Jo didn’t disappoint, and she used her sartorial know-how to expertly pick out a trio of must-have jeans - the flare, the cigarette cut and the wide leg. The star quickly got to work to create gorgeous outfits around each pair, ticking off key autumn/winter fashion trends for 2026 while still feeling very wearable for everyday.
Proving that petite stature is no barrier to style, Jo made each pair work for smaller frames, giving the British clothing brand a shout-out for offering extra-short lengths as well as short and long options.
Styling flared jeans
Jo really was excited about these vintage-style jeans and explained: "I’m a child of the 70s so I really love my flares. You really can’t take the hippie out of a girl – and these jeans really are a great take of the classic, retro flare. I like that the pockets are right up to the waist, and there’s a lovely natural flare shape. It makes me feel like I need to be back at Glastonbury. I’m definitely buying these."
These 70s-style bottoms will add a touch of boho to your look in the chicest of ways. They are available in sizes 6-24, and there are extra-short, short and extra-long options to help you find your fit.
We are not surprised that Jo picked out this statement-making jacket. The suede-effect fabric and fluffy collar will lift your look while keeping you warm, and it was particularly special with the flares.
Styling cigarette jeans
This straight-cut fit is universally flattering, and Jo gave the timeless design her own spin with expert styling. The star said: "These jeans come in short and they have great turn-ups which means you actually can alter the length a little. Because they have a slender fit on your lower half, you can take liberties with your tops, so I’ve gone for a fuller blouse and a layer. I like this knit too – V-neck, sleeveless vests are everywhere right now so it really works. I've added heels and it all feels quite country and western!"
This straight-leg pair come with a good amount of stretch to make sure they are some of your most comfortable jeans, and the pleat down the front adds a sharpness that means you can easily wear with a shirt or a fitted knit for your 9-5.
Jo is right, as sleeveless knits really are all over the high street right now. Wear this fluffy number over a white blouse like the star, or for a more relaxed take, pop it over a simple plain T-shirt.
Styling wide-leg jeans
This bold pair looked great on the celeb, and Jo explains how to make a voluminous shape work for you: "These jeans feature a pleated denim, and just look how chic they are. Don’t be scared of wearing wide leg trousers because as long as the proportions are right, they can be super flattering. This pair creates a waist and sits really nicely across the backside, and the dark navy colour is so kind to women of age. I've put them with a collarless leather jacket. I wouldn’t go for a heavily tailored jacket as the trousers already act as the tailoring – let your jeans do the talking and keep you layers loose."
Wide leg jeans may seem daunting, but Jo proves that they can work on even very petite shapes. This pair feature a gentle pleat detail at the front to add shape and definition.
This faux leather jacket has a sleek and understated design that makes it very easy to style. Wear it with denim like Jo, or use it to finish a busy printed maxi dress or a patterned knit.
Jeans are a very personal thing, and finding the perfect denim is a tricky task, but Jo’s cleverly picked three very different silhouettes, which means at least one of them might pique your interest.
If you're unsure about the best jeans for your body type, the straighter cigarette-leg style are a winner on most shapes. Wide-leg jeans will work well to balance out top-heavy frames or create curves on straighter silhouettes. Jo's favourite were the flares, which will work well on curves, but if you are on the shorter side, it's best to add some heels to elongate your legs and to avoid being swamped in fabric.
Jeans are brilliantly versatile too, and you have endless options when it comes to styling them. We love each of Jo’s outfits, but you could also try adding a fitted shirt and loafers to take your denim to the office, pair them with an oversized sweatshirt and your most comfortable trainers for the weekend, or with a sparkly cami ahead of party season.
