Marks & Spencer coats review: our fashion writer's thoughts on the retailer's winter collection

Marks & Spencer coats are some of the best when it comes to straight-to-market brand outerwear, with affordable prices and a range of styles that will appeal to almost everyone. From stormproof and fleece-lined designs to trendy borg gilets, there is no shortage of chic and practical M&S coats available this winter.

Shopping for the best winter coats can feel like an impossible task. While there is certainly a wide array of options out there, finding a jacket that fits your style, will survive endless wear, and won't cost an arm and a leg can certainly prove challenging. That is, until you browse through the Marks & Spencer coat offering. With options in faux fur, wool, waterproof jackets, puffer jackets, and even thermal pieces available, you can find your dream winter coat for less than you might think. 

A great place to shop for the latest coat trends, our fashion writer was delighted by the range of distinctive yet wearable jackets on offer in the M&S coat collection this winter. For this review, we have narrowed down our favorite styles, with our fashion writer closely inspecting the designs to determine which Marks & Spencer coats are the best of the best, and whether or not they are truly worth spending your money on. From the best puffer jackets for women to the best wool coats, these are the coats that pass the woman&home test when it comes to feel, cut, quality, hardware and design. Your coat-buying mission just got that little bit easier. 

A top British clothing brands, M&S first began as a market stall in Leeds, England over a century ago. Today, it is one of the go-to fashion brands, both in the UK and abroad, for timeless and high-quality garments. From sequin skirts to women's Christmas pajamas, there is nothing you won't find at M&S.

The M&S coat collection tends to lean towards neutral color palettes, such as black, white, grey, khaki, and navy. You can expect to see staple patterns such as check and leopard print, as well as a wide variety of silhouettes, textures and lengths. Though Marks & Spencer coats certainly give a nod to the seasonal trends, they also focus on being classics, the types of coats that you can turn to season after season. But for versatility, quality, and style, there's no going wrong with the 2022/2023 Marks & Spencer coat collection.

How we tested the best Marks & Spencer coats

When trying each coat on, we asked our fashion writer to assess the fabric quality, fit, texture and warmth, as well as the shape and whether they fit true to size. Although M&S coats are at the affordable end of the price spectrum, most of us want a coat that we can pair with our winter outfit ideas for more than one season, so we opted for pieces that we knew could become instant hits in your capsule wardrobe. As such, we used our findings to determine if each coat is worth the price tag.

Our top 5 M&S coats to invest in this winter

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What our tester said:

"I immediately grabbed this coat as soon as we saw it, thanks to the gorgeous leopard print and on-trend khaki color. Green is one of the main fashion color trends 2022, and it will still play a role in the fashion color trends 2023 too. What I didn't expect from this coat was how incredibly soft it is all over, even on the cozy hood, that means you really won't want to take it off all winter.

Although it is made from 100% polyester, it feels significantly more premium to the touch, and it falls perfectly, giving a fun a twist to any smart casual outfit as it is not too structured for everyday wear. The smooth lining was comfortable on the skin, whilst the option of a metal zip or popper fastenings provides welcome variety and the double fastening helps to trap extra heat for a cozy feel. The thigh-skimming length makes it the ideal jacket to style with the best knee high boots, or team with your best jeans for everyday. 

I found that it was thick enough to keep you warm without feeling too heavy or suffocating - something I don't often encounter with faux fur coats. But in order to get a fit that will work for layering, I'd recommend going one size up to keep the shape slightly slouchy and allowing you to slip this coat over your best sweaters too. Overall, I thought this was a gorgeous, quality winter coat that will certainly keep you snug as well as injecting some interest into your closet. It's a big yes from me."

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What our tester said:

"Everyone needs a puffer jacket in their wardrobe. No matter your style, this staple piece is both practical and on-trend, but not too bold to lose appeal or interest as trend cycles change. However, getting the design of a simple puffer right isn't as easy as it may seem. But unsurprisingly, M&S has nailed it with this one. 

Where many puffers are boxy, this one boasts a flattering fit that will not hide or obscure your figure, meaning you can enjoy the quilted look without feeling swallowed. There is also an internal drawstring, allowing for a customizable fit. The unique Thermowarmth™ technology means that this puffer will keep you warm despite its lightweight feel, so bulkiness is no issue here. Plus, the funnel neck is incredibly warm, and it even features fleece-lined pockets to keep your hands cozy. 

It is a simple design that won't stand out from the crowd, but that's why I love it. A great edition to a minimalist capsule wardrobe, this is a purchase you could reach for day after day. Moreover, thanks to the water-resistant finish, it adds the perfect dose of practicality. For the price point, which is significantly lower than most straight-to-market puffer jackets, there is no going wrong here. Channel the fashion trends 2023 by teaming this with the warmest leggings and trainers, or layer with a chunky knit cardigan for frosty winter walks this season."

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What our tester said:

"The fall 2022 fashion trends revealed that caramel hues were once again on-trend, and this great parka coat nails the color palette perfectly. This shade is universally flattering, as well as being extremely versatile. What first drew me to this coat is the mix of teddy and quilted textures - not something I've spotted together in this style elsewhere - adding instant interest to a wardrobe essential. After all, why pick one trend-worthy style, when one coat can give you both?

If you are after warmth this winter, look no further. As soon as I put this coat on, I was struck by how incredibly warm it is all the way through. When fully zipped up, the high-neck design leaves no room for a chill to creep through, and the adjustable waist ties allow for further weather-proofing as well as adding some shape. I recommend going for your usual size in this, especially if you are petite, as it is fairly long. But thanks to the double zip and handy adjustments, it gives a gorgeous fit. I also love the multiple, spacious fleece pockets it has that will allow you to retire your handbag.

The only downfall is that it is definitely a casual jacket, and not the most adaptable to various occasions, and I wouldn't recommend wearing it over your best cocktail dresses, but for a warm way for how to dress simple but stylish day-to-day, I love it."

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What our tester said:

"Of all the M&S coats I tried on, this was probably my favorite. The stunning blue hue makes a statement without being too out-there and plays into next season's color trends perfectly. I also found that the round, quilted design provides a welcome change from classic collared design and this will work really well with roll neck knits or collared blouses too. 

This jacket is definitely the lightest M&S coat I tried, but that didn't change my initial feelings about it. And on super cold days, this could even be slipped on under a wool coat for added warmth. It is subtly padded and lined, so retains warmth without feeling restrictive. Rather than peak winter wear, I'd say this is definitely most suited for transitional weather, or winter layering when you can never get your temperature quite right. My usual size was the perfect fit, even for wearing with sweaters underneath, without looking baggy or oversized. Sitting somewhere between a fall or spring jacket and a puffer, it is a coat that will fill those awkward in between weather days that you never seem to have quite the right outerwear for. 

After the first try-on I was already brainstorming potential outfit combinations, proving the true versatility of this number. It will look just as good over the best hoodies and best M&S jeans as it will slipped on over a shirt for the office."

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What our tester said:

"Finding just the right wool-look coat is a mission I have been on for quite some time. Looking for a magical combination of desired weight or thickness - without it feeling stiff, I also wanted that prime midi length that will sit just right with the best midi dresses. And I'm pleased to say that this Marks & Spencer checked coat ticks all of those boxes, making it one of my favorite wool-style coats I've ever tried.

If you know how to style a trench coat, you will have no trouble thinking up ensembles to go with this piece. However, for those who are unsure, it is actually more versatile than you may think. The light lilac check pattern is faded enough to be worn like a neutral, meaning that you really can throw it on over anything - even other patterns. I tried this on with pinstripe trousers, and it didn't clash. 

In terms of the fit, I found my usual size to provide the perfect fit. It is the ideal length, as well as feeling comfortable through the body and arms, allowing for easy movement. It is a shame that this coat is made from polyester as opposed to real wool, but the choice of fabrication is reflected in the price point, which would be much higher, had it been made of all wool or a wool-blend. Reminding me of Reiss coats collection, thanks to its tailored silhouette, despite the fact this is made from polyester and not wool or a wool blend, I wouldn't say that this felt lower in quality or finishing either, making this a high end buy at a snippet of the price."

What is the quality of M&S' coats like?

Overall, the quality of M&S coats is impressive. While the coats tested did not use premium fabrics such as wool or cashmere, this wasn't evident as the quality of the fit, feel and materials chosen meant the coats felt great and were supremely comfortable too. And while M&S do make wool coats - these stylish buys were some of our favorites and at great price points too. 

With sturdy finishings and neat seams at an affordable price point, Marks & Spencer's coats are definitely worth the investment and while they may not last quite as long as natural fabrics, with the right care, these Marks & Spencer coats will last you very well.

How much do M&S coats cost and are they worth it?

At the time of writing, the cheapest M&S coat is $60.99 for the Quilted Bomber Jacket, and £35 for the Borg Lightweight Jacket. The majority of M&S coats are under $150 / £100, and the most expensive in the coat range - typically leather and cashmere styles - come in at around $300 / £200. Ensuring that all M&S coat prices are reasonable, with none seemingly overpriced. With pieces all across multiple price brackets, M&S coats are well worth the price. 

What is M&S' coat sizing like?

M&S coats run true to size. The size you opt for will totally depend on personal preference, as you may prefer a more oversized fit on certain styles, particularly if you know you want to layer chunky knits underneath. However, you can be almost certain that your regular size will be just right in the vast majority of coats. Our tester tried a couple of coats on, in a size up, and didn't find them to be too oversized, but they did provide enough room for an extra layer. If you are usually between sizes, we recommend going for the size up to avoid any discomfort and to be sure of a good fit.

Does M&S offer easy returns?

UK and US customers can return unwanted items within 35 days from purchase. Sale items usually allow returns up to 14 days from purchase. If you are returning an online order, your items don’t need to be in the original box or bag as long as they’re securely packaged.

For US postal returns, $10 will be charged and deducted from the value of your refund. In the UK, return costs are determined by the courier you choose.

M&S Coats Collection - Our Verdict 

M&S offers a fantastic range of affordable and trendy coats that will work for absolutely any occasion. Whether you're looking for waterproofs or a smartly tailored coat for work, or something tactile and fun for party season, we thoroughly recommend M&S coats.

View the latest Marks & Spencer discount codes from woman&home's voucher team.