I'm 32—This Is the Spring Trend I'm Buying From M&S, Arket and H&M

In my experience, linen is one of those fabrics that gets a bad rap. My theory is that there are a lot of people who hate ironing (I mean, fair enough), and as a result, don't understand just how chic it can be. Other than its propensity to crease easily, I also think it's often associated with a kind of old-fashioned or dated hippie style, so people fear it might age them. I can see why: Flowing, shapeless outfits hardly make you feel streamlined and polished. But the latest linen items I've spotted on the high street couldn't be further from that.
Right now, in my expert opinion, there are three high street stores leading the way when it comes to linen: H&M, Arket and Marks & Spencer. The good news is that each one has its own style. If you're looking for warm-weather-ready items that won't look out of place on a night out or on the beach, then H&M is where to go. But if you're after tailored items and co-ords then it's Arket you want to head to (the matching sets are a staple in my spring wardrobe). As for M&S, this is where you want to go for throw-on dresses and basics, and their pull-on linen trousers are also a sellout hit. So keep scrolling for the best affordable linen buys you'll find this spring and summer.
Shop the Linen Fashion Trend:
1. ARKET
This effortlessly chic linen-blend waistcoat is giving effortless chic. Its soft, earthy hue and relaxed tailoring will instantly elevate any outfit.
A masterclass in versatile dressing, these brown linen trousers will go from city breaks with flip flops to spring evenings with strappy heels with ease.
The epitome of effortless dressing—this airy linen shirt is a capsule wardrobe hero. Whether tucked into tailored trousers or thrown over swimwear, it's a forever piece.
Minimalists, rejoice. This wrap dress will become one of the most reached for pieces in your spring wardrobe. Proof that neutrals don't have to be boring, style with heels for a night out, or pair with a simple ballet flat to run daily errands.
If your spring wardrobe needs a refresh, start with the basics. Simple doesn't have to mean boring and black linen shorts will go with almost anything in your wardrobe.
With its flattering wrap detail and rich coffee hue, this linen maxi skirt has such timeless appeal. Style with the matching shirt or opt for a basic white tee.
A beige linen shirt is one thing I will wear year after year without fail. Worn alone or layered on top of a dress, its versatility allows you to style it in so many different ways.
For days when the temperature rises, these high-waist linen shorts will be your best friend. Timeless, tailored, and endlessly wearable. Style it with the matching shirt for a cute co-ord moment.
2. H&M
A waistcoat has cemented itself into capsule wardrobe status. This mocha hued number went straight into my basket along with the trousers for a warm weather tailored look.
Crisp, clean, and effortlessly cool—this striped linen shirt will be the backbone of many a spring outfit.
Every wardrobe needs a power blazer, and this linen-blend number delivers. The sharp tailoring + lightweight fabric = year-round essential.
Red is really having a moment right now and these striped shorts have reminded me why. They're a great alternative to a neutral and the ultimate throw-on-and-go piece.
It's sometimes tricky to find a linen trouser that don't have a drawstring waist. H&M have nailed it with this high-waisted pair.
A linen shirt and spring just go hand in hand. This pastel pink piece would look so chic styled with white jeans and sandals.
This breezy linen-blend maxi skirt will ensure you look instantly put together whilst making minimal effort. Style with a white t-shirt for a casual look, or dress it up with a waistcoat.
If you invest in any linen pieces this spring, make it these trousers. Effortlessly cool and timeless, they will be the backbone of so many great outfits.
3. MARKS & SPENCER
Maxi skirts give an instant effortless "cool girl" aesthetic. I love the shirred waist detailing on this M&S number.
If you love a waistcoat but don't want the structured, tailored finish, a tie front option is a great alternative.
While it looks simple, don't underestimate the power of a plain white linen shift dress. I own one and it was the piece I reached for the most last year and its versatile styling abilities make it worth the purchase.
Red has been everywhere the last couple of seasons and I don't anticipate its departure anytime soon. I love the asymmetric finish of this waistcoat.
For those who love a polished yet relaxed silhouette, this bias cut maxi skirt is a no brainer. Perfect with a tank and slides for everyday chic.
This shirt proves minimal effort can equate to maximal style. This chic linen shirt oozes sophistication - add the matching trousers and a sleek pair of sandals.
This cami top is the ultimate "jeans and a nice top" option. Just add sliders and sunglasses and you're good to go.
With their wide-leg shape and rich chocolate hue, these linen trousers will quickly become one of your most worn spring wardrobe pieces.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her top-selling column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily interned at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she managed the fashion team and travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.
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