As winter tightens its grip on the UK, the annual scramble for warmth and comfort is in full swing. For many, that means turning to trusted British retailer Marks & Spencer (M&S), whose latest knitwear collection has shoppers buzzing—and bundling up—in style. With a range of new releases that blend fashion, function, and affordability, M&S seems to have struck a chord with those seeking both comfort and chic this season.
One of the standout pieces drawing attention is the versatile zip-up knitted jacket, priced at just £36. According to BristolLive, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill winter layer. The jacket features a clever two-way fastening zip, allowing wearers to fully fasten it for a classic, streamlined look or open the zip at the hem for a modern, cinched effect. This small but significant detail means the jacket is, essentially, two styles in one—a practical touch that fashionistas and busy professionals alike can appreciate.
The design team at M&S didn’t stop there. The jacket boasts an oversized collar, which can be zipped all the way up for a contemporary funnel-neck effect or left open to create a chic, sailor-style collar that drapes past the shoulders. This dual-purpose collar adds a hint of luxury, making the jacket look far more expensive than its modest price tag might suggest. Available in classic black with a contrasting gold-toned zip, as well as a bold cherry red, the jacket offers options for those who prefer understated elegance and those who want to make a statement.
Styling this piece is a breeze, which is part of its appeal. As BristolLive notes, you can channel effortless Parisian cool by pairing it with a plain-white tee, straight-leg jeans—another trend for 2026—and ballet flats. For a more polished, office-ready ensemble, M&S’s own stylists suggest pleated trousers, a statement buckle belt, and slimline pumps. In short, this is a jacket that transitions seamlessly from casual weekends to the workweek grind.
But for those whose definition of winter comfort is a little less structured and a lot more snuggly, M&S has another offering: the Teddy Borg Wrap Lounge Cardigan. Priced at £28 and available in dark raspberry and ivory, this ultra-soft cardigan is made from plush teddy borg fabric and designed with cold nights in mind. Its wrap-around construction can be tied closed for extra warmth or worn loosely over pyjamas, making it a go-to piece for lounging at home.
The cardigan comes in sizes ranging from extra small to extra large, ensuring a good fit for most body types. Features like two deep pockets for warming hands and extra-long sleeves that add to the cocooned feel underscore its appeal. Shoppers have been quick to praise its comfort and practicality. One reviewer shared, “Great buy. Warm and cosy without being restrictive. Easy to put on and take off is a definite advantage. Very warm.” Another echoed the sentiment, calling it “a lovely soft layer to curl up in on dark chilly evenings.”
Ease of care is another strong point. The Teddy Borg Wrap Lounge Cardigan is both machine-washable and tumble-dryer-friendly, making it a low-maintenance addition to any winter wardrobe. As BristolLive reports, the cardigan is especially popular when paired with teddy fleece pyjamas—also available at M&S in a range of soft neutrals and playful prints. For those looking to mix and match, John Lewis and ASOS offer their own takes on teddy fleece loungewear, but the M&S cardigan remains a crowd favorite.
Not every review has been glowing, however. One customer noted, “This is a lovely cardigan. I use it over my clothes when it gets chilly. The big cuffs can be a bit of a nuisance when washing up and cooking.” Still, the overwhelming feedback is positive, with another buyer saying, “Gorgeous and really soft. I bought for a present so hoping they like it as much as me.”
No roundup of M&S winter staples would be complete without mentioning their bestselling Cloud-Yarn Ribbed Crew Neck Jumper, which retails for £26. This jumper, available in sizes XS to XL and a rainbow of colors including faded blue, grey, hazelnut, cream, camomile, dusted lilac, and chartreuse, has become a go-to for shoppers seeking both warmth and style. Its regular fit, classic crew neckline, and casually dropped shoulders give it a timeless look, while chunky ribbed stitching and neat ribbed trims add a contemporary touch.
The Cloud-Yarn Ribbed Crew Neck Jumper has garnered a 4.6 rating from 447 reviews, with customers lauding its softness and comfort. “I purchased two of these jumpers, as they are so warm and cosy, and come in a lovely selection of colours. Perfect for wearing on cold winter days,” wrote one satisfied shopper. Another chimed in, “Beautiful jumper in a beautiful pale blue. It’s soft as a cloud looks very stylish.” For those who like to double down on a good thing, one reviewer confessed, “The jumper is very warm and comfortable to wear, I bought one then I bought three more, which probably speaks for itself. It also washes well and I would definitely recommend it.”
Of course, no product is without its critics. Some customers have expressed concern about pilling after washing, with one noting, “The jumper is warm but after one wear it started to pill. After washing it once it now looks years old.” Still, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive, and the jumper’s versatility is a major selling point. For a simple yet stylish look, M&S recommends pairing it with their £26 Sienna Straight Leg Jeans—another winter essential.
The popularity of these M&S knits is not happening in a vacuum. The demand for affordable, comfortable, and stylish winterwear has never been higher, with many shoppers seeking alternatives to cranking up the heating at home—a trend that’s only intensified in the face of rising energy costs. By offering practical yet fashionable solutions, M&S is tapping into a broader cultural moment, one where comfort and style are not mutually exclusive but rather go hand in hand.
For those who might be tempted to look elsewhere, there are alternatives on the market. New Look’s Ribbed Crew Neck Knit Jumper, for instance, is priced at £12.99 and comes in a variety of colors, while Uniqlo’s Soufflé Yarn Mock Neck Jumper, recently reduced to £24.90, boasts high praise for its soft, luxurious feel. Yet, the loyalty of M&S shoppers is hard to shake, especially when the brand continues to deliver on quality, value, and design.
Whether you’re after a polished jacket for the office, a snug cardigan for nights in, or a cloud-soft jumper for everyday wear, Marks & Spencer’s latest knitwear collection offers something for everyone. With thoughtful details, accessible pricing, and a focus on comfort, these pieces are quickly becoming the unsung heroes of the British winter wardrobe.
