The summer sales are a great opportunity to snap up those sartorial staples for less. We'd never suggest you buy something just because it's been discounted, but perhaps you had your eye on an item that you couldn’t quite justify at full retail price, or you’ve identified a gap in your wardrobe and need an affordable solution.

Whatever your reason, the best thing about the summer sales is that you can bag yourself a bargain to wear immediately *and* into autumn too. Many of this season’s trends also feature in the AW26 collections, and it’s easy enough to make a few seasonal adjustments with some clever styling. Sometimes all you need is to swap sandals for boots and throw on a jacket.

m&s dresses summer salepinterest
Marks & Spencer

With that in mind, the first place we’re heading is Marks & Spencer’s sale dresses. You can’t beat the high street hero when it comes to trend-led designs with the quality to match, and nowhere is this more evident than its dress fashion category.

If you’re after a style that will see you through the rest of the summer – be it on holiday or at a festival – and work just as well come September for the office, you’re in the right place. Below, find our roundup of the best M&S sale dresses to shop now. With up to 50% off, styles are selling out fast, so you better be quick!

M&S Satin V-Neck Midaxi Slip Dress

Satin V-Neck Midaxi Slip Dress

M&S Satin V-Neck Midaxi Slip Dress

Now 50% Off
Credit: Marks & Spencer

You can’t beat a lace-trim dress for a touch of romance. Add a jacket for chilly date night evenings, or a jumper and boots to give the look of a midi skirt when the temperature really drops.


M&S Pure Cotton Lace Mini Waisted Dress

Pure Cotton Lace Mini Waisted Dress

M&S Pure Cotton Lace Mini Waisted Dress

Now 50% Off
Credit: Marks & Spencer

A summer dress with sleeves will carry you effortlessly into autumn. Simply style this mini with boots and you’re good to go.


Per Una Satin Smock Detail Midaxi Dress

Satin Smock Detail Midaxi Dress

Per Una Satin Smock Detail Midaxi Dress

Now 50% Off
Credit: Marks & Spencer

The warm-weather months are a great time to experiment with colour, but the vibrant hue of this midi dress will counteract any summer blues that threaten to creep in come autumn. Crucially, it’s just the right tone to work with black accessories to transition it for autumn-wear.


M&S Chiffon Floral Mini Drop Waist Dress

Chiffon Floral Mini Drop Waist Dress

M&S Chiffon Floral Mini Drop Waist Dress

Now 30% Off
Credit: Marks & Spencer

Florals aren’t just for spring! From the long sleeves and muted colour palette to the on-trend drop waist, this floaty patterned mini will become a go-to in your autumn wardrobe with the addition of a leather jacket over the top.


M&S Checked Frill Sleeve Maxi Column Dress

Checked Frill Sleeve Maxi Column Dress

M&S Checked Frill Sleeve Maxi Column Dress

Now 30% Off
Credit: Marks & Spencer

Check print is a huge autumn trend, but the breathable, floaty fabric is perfect for the remainder of summer. Plus, how pretty are the ruffle trims?


M&S Striped Long Sleeve Mini Shift Dress

Striped Long Sleeve Mini Shift Dress

M&S Striped Long Sleeve Mini Shift Dress

Now 50% Off
Credit: Marks & Spencer

Chocolate brown? Stripes? That’s two big autumn trends ticked! And for just £13? Well, there’s no arguing with that price tag.

Happy shopping!

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Headshot of Alexandria Dale
Alexandria Dale
Digital Fashion Writer

Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!