M&S Is Back in Manila with a Different Take on British Style

Fans of Marks & Spencer from near and far recently came together in Central London for a series of events spread across three days. The brand, which is celebrating 100 years of Fashion, played host to international media, content creators, and industry tastemakers, welcoming them in the heart of London, just a stone’s throw away from the M&S Pantheon flagship store on Oxford Street.

Recently remodelled and the embodiment of the brand’s new era, the M&S Pantheon spans four floors of food, fashion, beauty, and homeware. Browsing through racks of cool-colored bomber jackets, lace-trimmed skirts, heels, and workout wear, it seems that M&S fashion has moved forward. The collection feels fresh, fun, and more fashion-forward than many might expect with lace, faux fur sequins, and sheer details adding a stylish edge. An evolution of the M&S styles that our mothers and grandmothers donned, the brand’s latest collections feature modern tailoringTailoringThe craft of cutting, shaping, and sewing structured garments such as suits, blazers, and trousers to fit the body precisely. Good tailoring relies on skilled pattern work and fine finishing,Go to Tailoring Glossary, powerful outerwear, and elevated textures.

Outerwear is a particular highlight, from contrasting windbreakers and cropped trenches to jackets with detachable faux fur collars. Pinstripe tailoringTailoringThe craft of cutting, shaping, and sewing structured garments such as suits, blazers, and trousers to fit the body precisely. Good tailoring relies on skilled pattern work and fine finishing,Go to Tailoring Glossary and barrel-leg cargo trousers sat alongside a polka-dot running set that gives athleisure a fun twist. The womenswear autumn palette felt rich but wearable, with chocolate, camel, charcoal, and navy, while mossy greens and old rose pinks brought subtle color to menswear. Manila shoppers will appreciate the range, from versatile everyday pieces to standout looks for special occasions. Men and children get the M&S style treatment as well with refined casualwear, fashionable knits, and playful patterns. The kidswear edit also includes occasionwear and new babywear.

As the clouds gathered over London and a fine drizzle drifted through the air, M&S warmly welcomed guests to 180 Strand for a full brand experience in the prominent cultural space. Designed for discovery and engagement, M&S fashion was brought to life through eye-catching displays of the season’s must-haves, including a central mannequin display of AW26 womenswear campaign looks set against large-scale brand imagery. Covetable coordinating sets and polished accessoriesAccessoriesThe finishing pieces of an outfit, including bags, belts, scarves, hats, eyewear, and jewelry. Accessories can elevate a simple look or define it entirely, and fashion editors often treat themGo to Accessories Glossary were set against boutique-inspired spaces that showcased the brand’s lingerie, beauty, home, and Christmas collections.

Much like Manila, M&S brought the holiday season to life early with a Christmas room that featured immersive festive styling, gifting moments, tablescaping inspiration, and seasonal decor. A few feet from the festive spirit was a beauty room that had everything you could need to get ready and paint the town red. Complete with a salon station, guests were encouraged to get their hair done while discovering the latest beauty, skincare, and fragrances available in M&S stores. The lingerie and sleepwear edit had its own seasonal highlights, including the Body Sculpt Hip Boost and crystal-embellished “glam jams” that bring a little sparkle to Christmas morning pyjamas.

Upon exiting the exclusive preview, the M&S team handed guests floral bouquets from their charming display of seasonal blooms. The sweet souvenir was a testament to the brand’s full range of offerings. From florals to food, fashion to fragrance, and homeware to holiday decor, M&S brings together so much for shoppers to love. The brand’s “Love That” slogan couldn’t be more apt.

The M&S experience was capped with an intimate dinner at the House of Louie in Covent Garden. The celebratory moment created the perfect opportunity to connect and compare notes on collection favorites and what everyone wants to wear for the holiday season.

Since launching its first womenswear garments a century ago, M&S has played a pivotal role in British wardrobes. Today, that role extends far beyond the shores of Britain. From essential undergarments to elevated ready-to-wear and festive fashion, as well as favorite foods, there is so much to look forward to as the heritage brand returns to Manila. The new store opens in Glorietta on November 19th, bringing the Pantheon’s modern, fashion-led aesthetic to local shoppers.

Share now on: