I’m still enjoying summer, but I'm buying these M&S new-in autumn picks before they sell out
I've scrolled through the new-in M&S section just in time for payday - these are the transitional buys to bag now
Autumn fashion searches are rising, because as lovely as the warmer weather is, those in the know realise that the best new season and transitional looks start to drop right now. So while I've still got my slip-in Skechers sandals firmly on, I've got one eye firmly on the autumn trends for 2026, and the latest selection of new-in M&S pieces have me filling my basket to the brim.
While I'm not quite ready to cosy up in cashmere, some of the key seasonal silhouettes are certainly starting to drop and prepping my autumn capsule wardrobe means snapping up the best bits in advance so I'm not disappointed later down the line. From wool and cashmere blends, to short-sleeved knits that will bridge September to October beautifully, as well as the perfect leather and denim jackets, there is a lot to be excited about.
To make the most of my money, I'm concentrating on the best investment buys with a contemporary spin. A fresh piece of outerwear will instantly restyle my key September basics, while a standout dress that can be styled up or down will ensure that in the run up to festive fashion, I've got something directional to take me from AM to PM. I've scrolled the entire new in at M&S selection and pulled out the bits worth knowing about.
One of my most worn autumn skirts is an M&S Autograph kilt and this feels like the perfect update to that style. I love charcoal grey as a chic alternative to black, as it pairs well with pastels, neutrals and bright colours, making it so versatile. The full circle shape is so flattering across middles, while the wool fabric makes it breathable.
Scarf neck coats, blouses and knits were big news last autumn/winter and I fully expect this silhouette to stick around for at least another six months. In a beautiful chocolate hue, this air-yarn knit will work with navy, grey, tan, cream and black with ease, adding an elevated finish to any ensemble.
I feel like if more people knew that this jacket existed, it would already be gone. Funnel necks were a huge spring/summer fashion trend for 2026, and this protective style is here to stay for cooler climes. This leather bomber jacket is the ideal way to ease yourself into autumn, and it will add a cool and contemporary spin to every outfit.
Draped through the middle with a flippy, asymmetric hemline, this leopard print dress combines a nostalgic 90s aesthetic with a figure flattering fit. Dress this up with heels and a bag for a formal event. Add ballet flats and a blazer for your 9-5, or slick on some red lipstick and a pair of statement gold earrings for the coolest date night outfit idea.
Another scarf knot design, but how sensational is this cornflower blue. Tapping into the fashion colour trends for 2026, this is the ideal transitional tone and knit. The short sleeves make it great for early autumn, while the colourway pairs amazingly well with neutrals such as chocolate brown, tan, navy and cream, adding elegant brightness.
Another fantastic skirt, this colour block, wrap, midaxi looks like it has sashayed straight off the runway thanks to its interesting panel combination and trending sarong-inspired shape. The metallic gold adds a festive feel to the formal cream and grey, meaning you can easily dress this up for an evening up, or make an elegant formal day look.
Another carry-over trend, this butter-yellow and grey-striped rugby top is ideal for late-summer styling. The knitted fabrication gives a feeling of cosy protection, while the soft hues make this one easy to style with darker tones, or even as part of a white jeans outfit as you close out summer in style.
Ruche detailing through the middle creates a flattering fit across a midriff for a very flattering fit. A classic white shirt always has a home in your capsule wardrobe, but there is nothing to stop you from shopping those designs with added detail to get even more from your timeless button-down.
Wide-leg trousers remain a core silhouette as we transition into cooler climes, and the pleat detailing down the front of each leg helps to add even more volume to these forest-toned beauties. At just £20, these tailored trousers are an absolute steal. Remember, with a wider hemline, keep your waist highlighted and your top half more fitted to balance your shape.
Another textured knit, this time in a striking petrol blue, this is the perfect alternative to a t-shirt as temperatures cool. As with your classic crew-necks, try pairing this with your best barrel-leg jeans in black or inky indigo for a tonal look, or contrast it with white jeans for an ode to the end of summer style.
M&S jeans are absolutely flying this season, but despite the denim trends for 2026, the wide-leg jean remains one of those core basics I always recommend. The universally flattering and comfortable fit means your legs feel less constricted, while the wider hem helps to narrow waistlines and balance out shoulders.
Enriched with wool, this neutral, short-sleeved knit can be paired with a similarly hued cardigan to create twinset-like aesthetic, worn instead of a t-shirt, or even slipped on over a crisp white shirt. The soft, luxurious fabric is a steal for £20, and elevates everything from jeans to autumn-ready leather trousers.
After the success of barrel and balloon legs, this slouchy pair of trousers, that features a gathered waistline, is an ideal choice for those that like a voluminous fit on the bottom. Crafted from pure silk this is a truly luxurious buy that can be dressed up for evening, or down for your 9-5. I'd pair it with a tucked in white shirt and switch my accessories to go from AM to PM.
Working hard to keep those affordable price points in the mix, this collared knit is another bargain basic buy that will underpin your autumn capsule wardrobe. Enriched with wool, you get the benefit of some natural fibres, but without having to compromise on affordability and ease of care. The simple silhouette will work with a host of bottoms.
A shirt is a wardrobe staple, but I love the contemporary fit and colour palette used here to update the look. Grey is one of my favourite autumn/winter hues and juxtaposed with mustard, it looks particularly elevated. The gathered waist belt adds a femininity to the classic tailored design, and of course you could switch the fabric belt for a wide leather design.
Having already bagged the Victoria Beckham for GAP denim jacket earlier this year I didn't think I'd be in the market for another, but I love the cropped cut on this design. The statement pockets, teamed with a waist-loving hemline creates a flattering finish that will help to effortlessly nip you in. Team with high waisted trousers, A-line skirts or dresses.
There is a lot of midnight hues in the latest M&S new-in drop and I am fully supporting this colour trend. Dark, inky and just as versatile as black, there is a softness to dark blue hues that make them universally flattering. I love the black lace trim on this dress which makes it even easier to style. In fact, it means you can add your favourite black bag and shoes to this look.
The update to the M&S funnel-neck sports jacket you didn't know you needed. This tailored iteration is the very definition of smart casual styling. The gently tailored fit through the body, teamed with a sporty zip and bomber-inspired sleeves, gives a contemporary and polished update to the silhouette that dominated early spring.
The print of the summer is one you can rely on to ease you into autumn, particularly in this pretty, sailor-collared design. An laidback silhouette that will work with tailoring, dresses and jeans alike.
A classic, single-breasted, tailored blazer is something everyone should have in their wardrobe. They add instant polish to jeans and t-shirt, are cooler over a dress than a cardi and make any look feel more put together.
Bubble hems didn't quite dominate in the way that was expected, but this nostalgic trend isn't giving up quite yet. In a denim fabric, making it ideal for late summer-early autumn, this biker-inspired design adds a modern feel to most looks.
I only clicked the M&S new-in for a light lunchtime browse but found myself piling items into my basket for further inspection. I always see a sharp rise in interest around autumn shopping ideas at this point in the summer - yes, even when still dressing for the heat- and I think it's because, despite our love of sunny weather, I, like many others, know that the best early transitional autumn buys start to drop now, and waiting means missing out.
There are some clearly early trending styles, namely a continued love affair with soft grey, chocolate brown hues, and blue tones across the spectrum, and luckily, these three work perfectly together.
When it comes to fabrication, knits with short sleeves, reliable denim and touches of luxe leather are set to underpin the first part of autumn, offering contemporary style, timelessness and breathability, meaning that these gorgeous M&S buys are investment pieces too.
