Why ME+EM is the stylish 'It' brand to know
If there's one brand we always turn to for luxury investment buys without the designer price tags, it's ME+EM. By now, this timeless mid-range British label has become a firm celebrity favourite, but if you're yet to browse its beautiful range and add one of its chic, polished pieces to your wardrobe, listen up.
The brainchild of former-advertising exec Clare Hornby, ME+EM launched back in 2009, but its ethos of eschewing fast-fashion to create elegant staples that will last forever and always look stylish is still disrupting the market. Like many of our style icons, ME+EM is our first port of call for those key pillars of our wardrobe that we're happy to invest in, such as the perfect pair of jeans, a perfectly-cut dress that'll work for any occasion, or gorgeous tailoring that makes us feel good every time we slip it on.
Every piece the brand designs goes through a lengthy and rigorous process to ensure that it meets 'the 3 Fs': flattering ("a flattering silhouette is ageless," explains Clare), functional ("we obsess over the role of a piece in your wardrobe and how it can work with all your essentials") and forever ("we thoroughly edit trends, only committing to the ones that have long-lasting appeal").
"When I went into advertising I couldn’t afford designer clothes full price but didn’t like the quality of high street," she told Marie Claire. "I just knew there was a gap to be filled between high quality and price."To hit this sweet spot, ME+EM only works with specially vetted factories, and it keeps costs down by cutting out excessive marketing campaigns and only selling directly to customers.
Celebrity ME+EM fans include the Princess of Wales, who owns several Breton tops. Nicole Kidman, Katie Holmes, Trinny Woodall and Cat Deeley have all been seen in ME+EM, while Claudia Winkleman often wears the brand's blouses to present The Traitors and Strictly Come Dancing. Then, of course, it became the Labour womens' label of choice when Keir Starmer's party took power in July, with Lady Victoria Starmer entering Downing Street with her husband in the appropriately red Contrast Stitch Midi Dress, and deputy Angela Rayner choosing a green trouser suit for her cabinet appointment the next day.
New at ME+EM for February, there’s a host of stylish pieces designed to carry you through the tail-end of winter into warmer, brighter spring. Think transitional jackets made for layering, brightly-coloured knits and comfy wide-leg trousers that will go with everything in your wardrobe.
Bear in mind that these are high-quality forever pieces for your capsule wardrobe, so don't expect £40 price tags. Do, however, factor in the cost per wear, because buying once is better for your bank balance and the planet. Importantly, don't miss the ME+EM sale section, which is full of older season gems for up to half price.
Ready to join the ME+EM fanbase? Here are just a few of the best ME+EM dresses, knitwear, accessories and more that you'll never want to take off...
Travel Tailoring Contrast Stitch Midi Dress
With spring around the corner, now is the time to inject some colour into your wardrobe. The cheerful raspberry hue of this midi dress is just the thing, plus it's made from a ponte-jersey fabric that doesn't crease.
Merino Cashmere Rugby Stripe Shirt
Rugby shirts are everywhere right now and if you're looking for an elevated version of the classic top, you can't beat this pink and red colour combo in a merino cashmere blend.
Relaxed Baggy Jean
This relaxed ‘baggy’ jean shape will quickly become your go-to denim style. Wear with a white shirt and suede mules for an easy weekend look.
Military Jacket
The ultimate outerwear staple, this military jacket will give any look instant polish. Paired with jeans and boots, it will see you through to spring in style.
Bowling Bag
Bowling bags are big news this season. The best thing about them? They're roomy enough to carry all the essentials and more. ME + EM's sleek suede version features a cross-body strap and handles for versatility.
Cheesecloth Tulip Print Shirred Zip Top
With its lilac and white print, lightweight cotton fabric and shirred bodice, this top is made for warm spring/summer days. Pair with white wide-leg trousers for a relaxed look or try an elegant co-ord with the matching midi skirt.
Chunky Cotton Bracelet Sleeve Crop Cardigan
A chunky cotton cardigan is the ultimate transitional piece, particularly in a wearable shade like navy. Layer this chic, boxy design over your favourite t-shirts until shorts-sleeves weather arrives.
Cotton Voile Soft Bloom Print Blouse
This elegant cotton blouse with its pretty print and subtle ruffled neckline is a versatile, transeasonal buy.
Tweed Knit Layering Sweater Vest
We love this tweed knit vest with its gold buttons - ideal for layering over white shirts and elevating your go-to jeans.
Embroidered Edge Layering Blouse
Thanks to its pretty embroidered edges, this white blouse will make all kinds of knitwear look all the more elevated when layered underneath.
Gathered Denim Maxi Skirt
A long denim skirt is a versatile wardrobe staple, particularly in a mid-blue wash like ME + EM's version. Dress it up with boots and a jacket for evenings out or keep it casual by tucking in a t-shirt and adding trainers.
Ballerina Flat
Studded ballet flats aren't going anywhere and ME+EM's red pair are top of our footwear wish list.
Pleated Straight-Leg Trainer-Grazer Pant
These pleated trousers are so easy to dress up or down for work or play – they'll go with everything that's already in your wardrobe and instantly elevate any look.
Bouclé Varsity Swing Jacket
This relaxed bouclé varsity jacket is perfect for throwing over just about everything. Pair with wide leg jeans or cargo pants for a striking off-duty look.
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