Last year, M&S and Bella Freud joined forces for the high/low fashion collab of the season, with a collection full to the brim with statement knits, 70s-style pussy-bow blouses and sleek suits – minus the £450+ designer price tag. Unsurprisingly, it sold out immediately.
But if you missed out that time round, you're in luck, as the second M&S x Bella Freud collection has now landed and it's equally fabulous. The only difference? This range expands into childrenswear, homeware and even an adorable statement knit for your dog.
SHOP THE M&S X BELLA FREUD COLLECTION
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Freud says the range is designed for ‘entertaining at home.’ So, as well as being filled with more of her greatest hits (that velvet suit, the slogan knits, cashmere accessories), there are also some excellent choices for hosting guests mi casa es su casa style, and even some matching family PJs.
And in the name of fashion journalism, the GH fashion team decided to head to Oxford Street and try on every single piece in the collection (yes, there was a bit of a queue in the changing room). Here's what we thought, plus the items we've added to our baskets.
Here’s what we’re keeping
The pink Wham Bam jumper
This jumper with a bold pop of pink is a top contender. Zara Tuck, fashion assistant said: "I really love the shape of the knit jumper, it falls effortlessly on the frame and isn’t too thick, meaning you can tuck it Parisian-style for a casual, day-to-day look. I also adore the pop of pink which brightens up your complexion and the contrasting dark colour of the slogan."
The velvet suit and pussy-bow blouse
The pussy-bow blouse is out of stock now, so shop the black shirt alternative.
Instead of £1,400, which is what you’d usually expect to pay for a tailored Bella Freud suit, this comes in at £280. Alison Lynch, head of content at GHI said: "I was really keen to try on the black velvet tux and silk pussy-bow blouse, which would be a fab look for Christmas party season. I’m a size 8-10 and tried the suit in a size 10. The jacket was quite a slim fit but the trousers were fairly loose so I sized down to the 8. I’d wear this with one of the statement knits layered over the shirt."
Update: Sadly, the suit is now sold out, as is the blouse in both cream and black. However, we suggest checking back on the site over the next week as any returns will be put back online. It's also worth checking stock in participating stores.
The high-waist wide-leg jeans
While they may not be one of the standout pieces, the only jeans in the range surprised us – in a good way. "I only tried these black jeans on because I wanted to see how the Wham Bam jumper looked with denim, but these were the surprise hit of the range for me," said Alison. "They were a really flattering fit – high on the waist with a slightly wider leg. They also come in three lengths, which is great for a shortie like me.
"I’d definitely recommend those if you want a break from your barrel-legs. They were a slim fit so size up if you want something a little looser. I'd get the petite length and wear with the red cashmere socks for a pop of colour."
The green Dance jumper
The pop of colours continue with the green Dance jumper, fun and witty, it’s perfect for entertaining at home for the coming festive season. Emma Richardson, junior fashion editor said: "When I first saw the Dance jumper, I knew I had to try it on. The cashmere is excellent quality, especially as the cold snap approaches and you start to look for staples that will see you from now until March."
The slogan pyjama set
Incredibly cosy, it’s no surprise the pure cotton pyjama set has almost sold out. Emma said: "This incredibly soft pair of pyjamas is an excellent gift for someone (or for yourself) as Christmas fast approaches. It fits slightly tight on the upper leg but it’s incredibly comfortable material easily makes up for it."
The black coat
Zara was quick to try on the coat over the pink knit and a classic pair of black jeans. She said: "I do love a black wardrobe staple that pairs effortlessly with everything I already own. It also looks excellent paired with the bright pink jumper and really makes the colour sing without being too much."
Shop the rest of the M&S x Bella Freud collection
