Does Marks & Spencer Run Big? Your Complete M&S Sizing Guide

Yes, Marks & Spencer sizing runs notoriously large - typically 1-2 sizes bigger than most high street brands, making it essential to size down when shopping their collections. As someone who's spent years helping clients navigate the confusing world of retail sizing, I can tell you that M&S is one of the most generous fits you'll encounter on the British high street.

After countless fitting sessions with clients across all body types, I've noticed this sizing discrepancy consistently. Whether you're shopping for their classic workwear, weekend casuals, or evening pieces, understanding M&S's generous approach to sizing will save you time, money, and the frustration of ill-fitting purchases.

Why Does M&S Run So Large?

M&S has historically catered to an older demographic with a preference for comfortable, relaxed fits. Their design philosophy prioritises ease of movement and comfort over body-conscious silhouettes. This approach means their size 12 often fits like a size 14-16 in brands like Zara (known for contemporary European cuts) or COS (minimalist Scandinavian sizing that runs true to size).

The brand's traditional customer base has influenced their approach to fit. Unlike trend-focused retailers such as Mango (Spanish brand with fitted, fashion-forward cuts) or H&M (Swedish fast fashion with varied but generally smaller sizing), M&S maintains consistent generous proportions across their ranges.

Department-by-Department Sizing Breakdown

Womenswear

M&S womenswear runs particularly large in their classic ranges. Their knitwear, blouses, and trousers often require sizing down by one full size. However, their Per Una range tends to run slightly smaller than their main line, though still generous compared to brands like Whistles (premium British brand with tailored fits).

Quick Conversion Guide:If you're typically a size 12 in Next (reliable UK sizing), try a size 10 in M&SIf you wear size 14 in ASOS (varied international sizing), consider size 12 in M&SJigsaw size 16 often equals M&S size 14

Lingerie & Intimates

Surprisingly, M&S bra sizing runs more true to size, though their knickers and nightwear follow the brand's generally generous approach. Their expertise in this department means more accurate measurements compared to their ready-to-wear collections.

Comparing M&S to Other High Street Giants

French Connection (edgy British brand) runs significantly smaller than M&S - expect a 2-size difference. White Stuff (bohemian British lifestyle brand) offers similar relaxed fits to M&S but with slightly more structured tailoring. Fat Face (coastal lifestyle brand) provides comparable generous sizing, particularly in their casual wear.

Premium brands show even starker contrasts. Reiss (contemporary British luxury) cuts their pieces significantly smaller with European-influenced fits. Ted Baker (quirky British luxury) typically runs 1-2 sizes smaller than M&S across all categories.

Style Tips for Shopping M&S

Always start by trying a size down from your usual. I recommend beginning with two sizes smaller if you prefer fitted silhouettes. M&S's generous cuts work beautifully for layering - perfect for British weather!

For professional wear, their larger sizing actually works in your favour, creating elegant, comfortable workwear that moves with you. Pair with more fitted pieces from brands like Massimo Dutti (Spanish sophisticated workwear) for balanced proportions.

Brand Recommendations by Price Point

High Street Alternatives

M&S itself offers excellent value, but for different fits try Monsoon (feminine prints with international sizing) or Phase Eight (occasion wear specialist with consistent UK sizing).

Premium Options

LK Bennett (British luxury accessible brand) provides impeccable tailoring with true-to-size fits. Me+Em (modern British luxury) offers contemporary cuts that bridge the gap between high street and designer.

Unique Independent Finds

Wyse London (British independent specialising in cashmere) creates beautifully fitted pieces with attention to proportion. Rixo (vintage-inspired British brand) offers unique prints with flattering, size-inclusive fits.

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