M&S has released an upgrade of my favourite A-line skirt (and it has pockets)
The versatile skirt can be worn all year long and is super flattering.
Recently, I made the bold move to clear out my wardrobe in an attempt to start fresh and invest in pieces I really love for 2025. However, there were a handful of pieces I refused to let go, including my well-worn and often-complimented A-line skirt from Marks & Spencer.
Pure Cotton Poplin A-line Skirt
Black Formal A Line Skirt
Black Cord Tie Waist Midi Skirt
Poplin Cotton Wrap Skirt
Black Sulli Poplin Skirt
A staple in my wardrobe, I've had this timeless number for close to two years, and have worn it more times than I can possibly remember. When planning what to wear, it's often the piece I fall back on, and style the rest of my outfit around. Whether that's for a trip to the office for work, day-date with friends, or family get-together, it always delivers.
So, when I caught wind that M&S had released a new (and admittedly, better) version, I just had to let everyone know. The retailer's Pure Cotton Poplin A-line Skirt is an upgrade on the style I have and love, with the same flattering shape and elasticated waistband.
A versatile skirt that can be worn all year long, it's designed with a flattering A-line shape, elasticated waist and pockets.
Available in two easy-to-wear colours, it costs just £32.50 and is the ultimate all-purpose skirt that you can dress up or down and wear all year long.
Why I rate it
The versatility of this skirt is what makes it a wardrobe must-have. Not limited to a single way of styling, it has a simple shape that you can wear with all sorts of tops, blouses, or jumpers. Dress it up with a fitted sleeveless top and some heels for a spring/summer occasion, or keep it casual with a slouchy, fine-knit jumper and some boots (like I have below).
The best part about this skirt, though, has to be the elasticated waist. Great for all-day wear, it offers both style and comfort, cinching you in at the waist for a flattering fit-and-flare shape that's easy to move in and not restrictive whatsoever.
I also love the makeshift pleats that are created by the elasticated waistband, elevating the overall design of the skirt and making it more interesting to look at.
The only two differences between my skirt and the latest version is 1) the length, and 2) the addition of pockets. My skirt is cut to a midi-length, which, on my 5'4 frame, hits just at the ankle. Whereas M&S's new style is longer, with a more midaxi-length hem. The newer version also offers the functionality of pockets, which I firmly believe every dress and skirt should have!
Both are made from 100% cotton, which does mean they crease relatively easily, but I think that adds to the effortless style of the skirt. It's also nothing you can't fix with a quick steam or iron.
Size-wise, I picked my skirt up in a 10 (my usual size), and it fits perfectly. At the time, different lengths weren't available to shop, but you can get the latest version in short, regular and long lengths, allowing you to better tailor the fit to suit you.
Available to shop from Marks & Spencer for just £32.50, this skirt is selling fast, with some sizes already sold out, so if you want a chance at styling it this spring and summer, I would place that order ASAP!
What the reviews say
I'm not the only one convinced everyone needs this style of skirt, with shoppers already rating it five-stars, describing it as "versatile", "comfortable" and "so stylish".
"Good summer skirt. Lined, elasticated waist, good length, [and] will be versatile. Wear now with jumpers or with a blouse or T shirt in the summer."
"I bought this skirt in black. It’s a lovely skirt a good length on me and I am 5'9. It’s so easy to wear with the comfortable elasticated waist, and so stylish. I’ll dress it up and easily wear it in the evenings or just wear it down to the beach with a black T-shirt!...One of the best things about this skirt is that it has pockets. I’m astonished that many other clothes manufacturers have designs do not include pockets! I really love this skirt and I’m thinking about buying it in the cream as well. Highly recommended."
"I fell in love with this skirt when I first saw it. Fit is good length a little long just means I don't have to shave my legs so often. Ordered black as well."
"This gorgeous skirt is so lovely, [it] fits perfectly on me 14 petite."
"Bought this in ivory. As it's a neutral colour it goes with plenty of tops I already have so will be useful if we have a warm summer and especially for a holiday in the sun. Doesn't have the wow factor but ticks all the boxes being 100% cotton, easy to wear, good length and crucially with pockets. Quite thin material but it is fully lined and good value for money."
Shop now: Pure Cotton Poplin A-line Skirt | £32.50 from Marks & Spencer
More A-line skirts I'm loving
This is the most affordable A-line skirt on the market right now. Looking a lot more expensive than it is, and equally as stylish as more premium versions, it even comes with a matching shirt.
Pick up this staple shape in cord, and enjoy a heavier style, with a tie-fastening and pockets.
More elevated than your usual A-line skirt, this style from John Lewis comes with a gorgeous wrap-around design, with a chic self-tie belt.
This skirt comes with an elasticated waistband and adjustable drawcord for a fully customisable fit, and is perfect for styling all year long.
