M&S has a knack for creating viral party frocks year after year – and I think this could be the next sell-out sensation
As a fashion writer, it’s my job to find the pieces that will sell-out before they go viral. As the temperatures dip, Marks and Spencer’s new-in section is teaming with potential – but there’s one dress in particular that I think is going to fly off the shelves ahead of the festive season.
The high street favourite has a knack for creating pieces that are in-demand, generating a frenzy among fashion enthusiasts desperate to get in on the action. Last year, it was a sparkly midi dress as seen on Dawn French in their festive advertising campaign that stole the show, and I believe they could see similar success with one of their latest styles.
The dress in question is the Floral Textured Mini Relaxed Shift Dress , which comes in at under £50. The dress strikes the perfect balance between timeless and trend-led, and has that same versatility that Dawn’s dress was loved for last year, in which it’s perfect for the party season, without being all tinsel, glitter and sequins, meaning it works year-round too.
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Costing £49.50, the frock boasts a 60s style shift silhouette which is effortlessly flattering with a relaxed fit that disguises the tummy area. With voluminous long sleeves finished in ruffled cuffs and a chic mini-length hem, the design lends itself to both smart soirées and more relaxed gatherings.
The floral appliqué detailing elevates the look, giving it a subtle texture that feels far more luxurious than its under-£50 price tag suggests. Plus, it makes it easy to wear from day to night, because while the throw-on-and-go dress does all the heavy lifting, all it needs is a few accessories, be it heels and some statement jewellery for evening, or boots and a gilet for a more casual outing.
Floral Textured Mini Relaxed Shift Dress
This shift dress features an all-over textured floral appliqué design, making it a pretty choice for smart or casual occasions. It’s crafted in an easy relaxed fit, with a mini-length hem and a timeless crew neckline. The voluminous long sleeves are finished with elegant ruffled cuffs.
I must admit, I recently purged a number of black items from my wardrobe because it’s not my most flattering colour. In fact, I’ve only worn one single black item of clothing throughout the entirety of 2025 – but there was something about this Marks and Spencer mini dress made me reconsider the ban on black clothes in my wardrobe. I’m certain it’ll be a hardworking item that will quickly earn its keep in a capsule wardrobe.
For those who can’t get enough of an LBD, though, there are dozens of options available on the high street. For those looking for something with a little more shape, Nobody’s Child has this Black Tie Waist Lotte Mini Dress for £48, on sale from £69. Designed to be sem-fitted, it has a waist-cinching tie and a sleeveless design.
Alternatively, for those looking for something with a longer hemline, River Island’s Black Velvet Sleeveless Drape Midi Dress is a stunning choice for £56. The retailer has brought out very similar designs three years running now, with the one-shoulder silhouette perfect for date nights and formal events.
For me, though, the M&S Floral Textured Mini Relaxed Shift Dress is the ultimate frock for the festive season and beyond. It’s elegant without being overdone, comfortable without compromising on style and is guaranteed to earn compliments. My only critique is that it doesn’t have pockets.
While it’s still early in the season, fashion insiders know that securing a hero piece before it takes off is key, and with wedding receptions, office parties, and Christmas celebrations just around the corner, I wouldn’t hold off buying as it could be the dress everyone is talking about by December.