Marks & Spencer (M&S) is set to make its debut at London Fashion Week this September, marking a milestone as the retailer's clothing business turns 100 years old. The high street giant will present a 'see now, buy now' collection of womenswear and menswear, allowing shoppers to purchase items immediately online and in flagship stores across the UK and key international markets.
Century of Fashion
M&S introduced womenswear to its offering in 1926 with the opening of its Drapery department, a year after the company first opened in 1884. In 1927, products included poplin jumpers, winceyette petticoats and tennis pullovers. The company later established a central design department in the 1930s to adapt high-fashion trends from London, Paris, and New York for everyday consumers.
Chief executive Stuart Machin said: 'This is a special moment; for 100 years M&S fashion has been part of everyday life and now we will showcase our designs on fashion's global stage.' He added: 'At M&S we focus on designing clothes with style, quality and value, and making fashion accessible to all. That's why we will stream our show, bringing one of the world's leading fashion weeks and the magic of M&S to everybody.'
Style Revival and Investment
The fashion week debut comes as M&S has been investing heavily in its fashion, home and beauty business in a bid to double online sales. The retailer has seen a revival of its clothing arm over recent years, with perceptions of the brand's style and quality improving among customers, and its share of the overall womenswear market increasing.
Over the weekend, M&S turned the pit lane at the Silverstone British Grand Prix into a catwalk for a fashion show. The company is also taking over a warehouse from Asos, which is set to become one of its largest distribution centres when it opens in 2027.
London Fashion Week Details
London Fashion Week (LFW) takes place twice a year, with the upcoming Spring/Summer showcase scheduled from Thursday, September 17 to Monday, September 21, 2026. The event brings together designers, press, and buyers, focusing on global fashion.
