Last year, we got a glimpse of the tinsel Christmas tree skirt trend when M&S first introduced its multicoloured design. But it sold out within days and many of us missed out on this fun and playful tree skirt. Luckily, the look is back in full force for Christmas 2026 – and not just at Marks & Spencer.

At first, the fringe tinsel tree skirt was a look exclusive to M&S and its Textured Tinsel Tree Skirt, selling for £18. In fact, in our piece about the return of the M&S tinsel tree skirt, I said that it’s a unique design I’ve never seen before or since its launch. But that’s changed since then – it’s now becoming a major Christmas decor trend as George Home and Very have entered the chat with their own takes on the tinsel tree skirt.

While Marks & Spencer’s tinsel tree skirt was given a full silver makeover this year, George Home’s and Very’s take on the trend is bolder and more colourful. Much like M&S’s tinsel tree skirt was last year when it first debuted, boasting a layered, colour-blocked look combining shades of red, pink and gold.

Very’s best Christmas tree skirt is a bit pricier compared to M&S and George Home, selling for £30 but it's currently on sale for £24 if you use code EARLYDEAL at checkout. It comes in two colourways for you to choose from – a two-toned version in red and pink and then an all-silver option, very similar to Marks & Spencer’s vision.

Meanwhile, George Home’s take on the trend is cheaper than M&S, retailing for mere £15 and most closely resembling the M&S tinsel tree skirt from last year.

Alternatively, instead of buying one of these tinsel tree skirts, you can make your very own if you’re feeling crafty and are after some DIY Christmas decor ideas. All you’re going to need is:

• A tinsel fringe garland in your colour of choice, like this fringe garland from Amazon available in a range of colourways
• A hot glue gun like this one from Amazon
• A cardboard box big enough to cut the tree skirt base from
• Scissors

You’ll start by cutting out the shape of the tree skirt out of the cardboard. Then, cut the tinsel garland into strips and layer them on the base, attaching them with the help of your hot glue gun until the base is entirely and evenly covered.

Is a tinsel Christmas tree skirt the type of festive decor that you’d like to add to your home this Christmas? And if so, which option’s caught your eye?

If you don’t want the drama of a full wreath, but still want a piece of traditional decor to place on your door, you’ll be pleased to learn that M&S is offering a stylish alternative. I’m talking about their Red Berry Half Moon Wreath (£20).

When it comes to sourcing anything festive, from the best artificial Christmas trees to the biggest Christmas trends of the year, M&S is somewhere I frequently recommend to my friends and family due to their stylish designs coupled with somewhat affordable price tags.

Already this year, we’ve seen the traditional wreath swapped for more contemporary styles, and this M&S wreath is a happy medium. If you’re looking for something stylish, not showy for your front door, here’s why it’s a great option.

M&S has been seriously delivering on festive decor. Period. From their sweeping disco-inspired tinsel tree skirt to their luxury XL bows, we have been spoiled for choice, and it’s not even November yet.

Having said that, Christmas decorations are selling fast this year, so now is the time to start investing if you have a particular vision in mind. The Red Berry Half Moon Wreath is already labelled as ‘in demand’ on the website.

I’m not at all surprised either. Set along a ‘half moon’ bough, the decorative piece offers a gentle curve instead of a full-blown wreath. The faux foliage is surprisingly lifelike considering the price tag, and the pops of red berries nestled among pinecones and green foliage gives it a striking look.

It has a length of 71 cm, so it is suitable for most doors; however, I wouldn’t limit its use here. I’d say this half-moon wreath would look lovely hanging above a fireplace for a cosy, rustic look. You could also use it on your interior doors to keep that festive feeling running through your home.

You don’t just have to take my word for it either; this wreath is already collecting positive reviews on the M&S website.

‘Great value. Lovely swag to put on my fireplace. Perfect for Christmas,’ says one.

However, one review does point out that this wreath may need a little extra tweaking to get it looking perfect.

‘This wreath is lovely, but it needed a lot of tweaking to get a good look and shape. The box could have been slightly longer to save it from getting squashed. Also, there are a lot of bits coming off it; hopefully that will stop,’ it reads.

Alternatively, here are a few more gorgeous festive styles I’ve spotted at M&S this year.

The half moon wreath is looks so real, I'm seriously impressed. If you're looking for a wreath idea that is both stylish and subtle, this is the one for you.

Kelly Hoppen and leopard print were two things I never thought I'd say in the same sentence. But it turns out they're a match made in heaven. When the interior designer included a leopard print bolster in her collection with M&S earlier this year, it sold out not once, but twice in record time.

If you missed out on the recent leopard print bolster cushion restock, I come bearing good news. M&S has just dropped the Leopard Print Jacquard Cushion in a traditional square shape for £30.

Leopard print has taken over our wardrobes, and it's now coming for our homes as one of the breakout home decor trends of 2026. If you needed any further proof that leopard print is a neutral, its inclusion in a range by the 'Queen of Taupe' is a pretty compelling argument. It might seem like a departure from Kelly Hoppen's signature neutral style, but the cushion actually fits beautifully with her calm, elegant aesthetic.

The original bolster cushion was restocked at the end of September, with thousands (including myself) signing up for back-in-stock notifications. Unsurprisingly, it sold out in a day, with fans taking to Instagram disappointed about missing out. If you were among them, you can now pick up the (in my opinion) more versatile and more affordable square shape.

What makes the leopard print design stand out from other animal print cushions is the jacquard print that adds a lovely texture to the cushion, elevating it above the sea of fluffy leopard print home accessories out there at the moment. The colours are also worth noting; it has a gorgeous tonal caramel hue with delicate black spots.

There are at least three members of the Ideal Home team who said they would never include leopard in their homes, but have added either the bolster or the new square cushion to their wish list.

The key differences between the two cushions are the shape, size, and price. The bolster cushion was slightly more expensive at £40, but it was big enough to sit comfortably across a double bed or along the back of a sofa, measuring 90cm in length and 30 cm wide. In contrast, the square cushion is 45 x 45cm and priced at a slightly lower £30.

While I thought the bolster cushion would look gorgeously chic splayed across my bed, I had no chance of getting a leopard-print cushion (even one this chic) past my husband. But I'm more confident I can slip the square version past him as a fun addition to my living room sofa ideas or on a glamorous bedroom chair.

The square cushion is still in stock, but I wouldn't sit on this purchase for too long. However, if you are still lusting after the bolster cushion, I have been informed it's likely to come back into stock next week. So keep those eyes peeled!

Leopard print homeware

2026 is definitely the year of the leopard; here are a few other luxe-looking leopard home accessories I've found hiding on the high street.

Will you be jumping on the leopard print homeware hype and snapping up the M&S cushion?

Christmas comes earlier every year, but for once I’m not complaining, as M&S’s festive lighting is so good, I predict it will sell out long before the big day arrives.

I can appreciate it’s only October, but now is the time to start considering the year’s Christmas trends - especially when the best decorations always sell out early. And one of the best producers of festive decor is M&S, who have already graced us with the return of their XL bows, tinsel tree skirt and gorgeous light-up candles.

But it is their Christmas lighting that I have to say is worth investing in now. I’ve already fallen in love with the brand’s new twig trees, and this led me down the rabbit hole of the best M&S Christmas lights. Here are my top six picks.

Having trawled through the M&S website, my top pick is the 100 LED Light Up Confetti Garland (£12). This five-star-rated product is made up of 100 warm white LED lights, as well as glittering confetti and beads that help reflect light - whether that’s from your LED or when it catches the sun in the daytime.

It’s a simple design but one that would suit any Christmas decorating style. I’d hang them from a fireplace mantel, or around a bookshelf or dresser to enjoy a festive sparkle that reaches every corner of your home. You could even place them in a mason jar and use them as part of your table decor for dinner parties.

What I love about these lights is that they are not explicitly festive, so you could use them as decor for any party.

‘These are lovely. I wanted them to cheer me up now the dark evenings and mornings have arrived,’ says one review, summing up my sentiments.

The M&S Christmas shop is selling fast, so if anything has caught your eye, it's wise to check out sooner rather than later.

Twig trees have been a popular Scandi-inspired Christmas decorating trend for the past few years, and M&S has just dropped one of the best-looking ones I’ve seen. I’m talking about the Pre Lit Twig Cluster Christmas Tree, and it’s available in three different sizes.

This pre-lit twig tree is a brilliant alternative to one of the best artificial Christmas trees, and it's just one of many examples of M&S knocking it out of the park with their festive collection this year. If you’ve been keeping up with the latest Christmas trends, you'll be aware that the M&S Christmas shop is packed with festive gems this year, aside from these twig Christmas trees. From their XL bows to their paper stars and tinsel tree skirt, M&S has easily become one of the best places to shop for Christmas decor.

And now you can add their new Pre-Lit Twig Cluster Christmas Trees to your list of fabulous decorations. Here’s why I think these twinkling lights make a showstopper.

M&S’s sparkling new twig trees are available in three different sizes. There’s a 6ft version, a 3ft version and a petite 1.5 ft version. First to catch my eye was the 6ft version. If a full-size Christmas tree isn’t to your taste, or you simply don’t want to spend hours decorating one, the M&S cluster tree may be better suited for you.

The 6ft tree is made up of hundreds of twinkling warm lights that bunch together in clusters. Illuminated against their dark branches, the lights create a beautiful silhouette of a traditional tree. It’s mains-operated, so it will need to be positioned near a plug, but you’d need this to plug in fairy lights on any other Christmas tree, so I don’t think this matters if you’re using the cluster tree as your main tree.

If you plan to use the cluster tree as a secondary tree, such as in your bedroom, kitchen or hallway, I recommend opting for one of the smaller trees. The 3ft version is the more attractive of the two (although the 1.5ft tree is cute) because it retains a beautiful silhouette on a smaller scale.

I think the smaller trees are perfect for illuminating dark areas of your home such as under your staircase. In fact, the 1.5ft tree is small enough to be positioned on a dresser, a little like your own festive lamp.

If you want to evoke a cosy glow in your home this Christmas, the M&S Pre Lit Twig Cluster Christmas Tree is a sure way to achieve this. What do you say?

M&S’s sell-out Textured Tinsel Tree Skirt (£18) is back for Christmas 2026, and in a sparkling new colourway. If you’re looking for showstopping festive decor, this glittering tinsel skirt is undoubtedly a star buy.

Last year, when Christmas trends were heavily centred on nostalgic, tinsel-heavy displays, M&S dropped a stunning multicoloured tinsel tree skirt, and it wasn’t long before it sold out completely.

If you missed out on this Christmas tree skirt last year, don’t worry, as it’s back in stock and available in a sleek silver colourway. But if you like what you see, be quick, as I predict another sell-out.

If you’re a fan of nostalgic, maximalist festive decor, this is a great tree skirt to incorporate into Christmas decorating. It has a playful disco look, and it means the base of your tree is just as eye-catching as your baubles and fairy lights.

A tree skirt is an effective way to cover the base of even the best artificial Christmas tree and maintain the illusion of a real tree (without the dropped needles). They’ve quickly become one of the most popular Christmas decor ideas, and with a range of styles available, there is one to suit any home.

For example, The White Company frequently produces sell-out rattan styles for a minimalist yet stylish look, while this year has seen the return of Next’s viral gingerbread tree skirt, which sold out in only September last year. And for maximalists, M&S’s striking tinsel tree skirt is the perfect addition to your festive decor.

‘The M&S tinsel skirt first debuted last year. I'd had a preview of it before it went live and had kept checking the site for it to drop because I knew it would be a sellout success. And sure enough, it was! I've never seen a tree skirt like this anywhere else before or since. So it's this unique, playful look that sets it apart from the rest and makes it so popular with shoppers. And with the affordable £18 price point, no wonder everyone's going mad for it,’ says Sara Hesikova, Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor.

The silver tinsel skirt stands at 70cm tall and has a length of 165cm, making it big enough to fit most artificial trees. Meanwhile, its three tiers of tinsel add an extra layer of sparkle to your decor, whilst keeping the finished look polished. The tinsel also has a textured surface, which means it should catch the light, adding even more sparkle to your home.

If that sounds like a little too much sparkle for you (no such thing), I’ve listed a few more of my favourite M&S Christmas decorations from this year.

Given that M&S' tinsel tree sold out by November this year, I predict it will be the same case this year - especially is such a pretty silver colourway. So, if you like what you see, snap it up now.

The M&S x Kelly Hoppen collection has quietly dropped more products to the range, adding pops of red to Kelly’s typical monochrome style; these latest home buys are an ideal mix of sultry and cosy.

Since it launched just two years ago in 2024, the M&S X Kelly Hoppen collaboration has fast become one of M&S’s most iconic collections. Setting her own home decor trends, the interior designer is well known for her love of neutrals, taupe and an ‘East meets West’ aesthetic.

Having dropped new lighting ideas, soft furnishings and fragrances for the autumn and winter months, I’ve trawled through Kelly’s new designs to bring you my six favourite pieces that not only embody Kelly’s signature style, but will make your home more stylish and cosy, too.

‘This collection is all about creating homes that feel beautifully considered yet effortlessly comfortable. We have introduced new colours, patterns and sculptural pieces that bring freshness to the range, whilst remaining true to the timeless aesthetic and balanced design principles that define my work. I love creating collections that help people transform their spaces with ease, and this season offers more opportunities than ever to achieve that look,’ said Kelly Hoppen CBE.

And I have to agree this is what Kelly has achieved. Red has been a hugely popular colour trend for the past few years, largely because it is a warm and comforting shade, perfect for making your home feel cosier on autumn nights. Products such as Pure Cotton Geometric Appliqué Cushion (£35) retain Kelly’s love of sharp lines and creamy neutrals, whilst introducing a pop of rich red to your living room ideas.

This latest collection is perfect for anyone looking to introduce colour to a neutral colour palette, but doesn’t want to get carried away. If you love cosy colour, but prefer a neutral home for a calming set-up, these are my top picks.

Bear in mind that this collection is already starting to sell out. The iconic leopard print bolster cushion has sold out for a second time, and the stunning glazed red vase has sold out, too. So, be quick if you want to get your hands on one.

Which piece is your favourite?

Tom Kerridge's cookware collection with M&S has proved very popular with shoppers and the range just got even bigger, with the addition of products tailor-made for Christmas 2026.

I enjoyed a preview of the Michelin-starred chef's collaboration with M&S last year and I knew that the best cookware designed by the man himself would be a hit. Our impressed reviews of the 3-Piece Cast Iron Set and the multifunctional Stainless Steel Saucepan proved that this is certainly more than a celebrity name stamped on products.

Now, you can also pick up some essential roasting buys from M&S that have all been stress-tested by Tom Kerridge – just time in time for hosting season to begin. Here's a look at the shiny new picks.

Another hugely popular pick from the collection (which actually sold out multiple times last year) was the 2-in-1 Wooden Butcher's Block (£50 via M&S). It's crafted with two built-in sorting compartments for chopping up food and has fluting built into it for meat carving too, so that the juices flow out neatly. It's another buy that really comes into its own for Christmas.

I can't wait to see these new picks from the Tom Kerridge collection on show at the new M&S Pantheon on Oxford Street, which has a dedicated space to show off these cookware bestsellers. Can you see yourself investing in one of these picks for Christmastime?

When I first caught a glimpse of the new M&S winter bedding collection at the brand's AW26 press preview, I knew it was going to be a winner.

Not only has the high street favourite nailed all the biggest bedding trends of the season – think rich burgundy and moss green colourways, alongside of-the-moment checkerboard and jacquard woven textures – but it's also done so with the brand's trademark practicality and brilliant value for money.

The uber-stylish M&S Blurred Floral Bedding Set and on-trend M&S Checkerboard Gauze Jacquard Bedding Set are the two buys currently tempting me to part with my hard-earned cash, but I'm also impressed by all of the super practical M&S zipped bedding sets on offer this autumn.

When it comes to where to buy bedding this cosy season, M&S is the place to shop as far as I'm concerned.

However, don't wait until the mercury drops to bagsy your bedding. As usual, M&S's best-value bedding sets are selling out fast. These are the looks I recommend snapping up before sizes disappear.

Whether you opt for a modern floral or contemporary checkerboard design, I think M&S's autumn bedding collection is the perfect way to give your bedroom a cosy and affordable autumn upgrade.

Even better? There are plenty of layering ideas too, whether that's the brand's sell-out M&S Supersoft Faux Fur Throws (that disappear off the shelves in record time most years) or M&S's new geometric bedspreads and blankets. Cosy season has never looked so stylish.

Last week, M&S fully opened its Christmas shop, revealing one of the best Christmas decor collections of this festive season. I’ve been swooning over many of the new launches, some of which I’d already spotted at the brand’s Christmas showcase earlier this month – but the one ‘it’ buy that all the Ideal Home editors are obsessed with (myself included) are the £15 M&S paper striped star room decorations.

According to Marks & Spencer’s recent survey, 30% of people plan to decorate more than usual this year. And if you, too, fall into that category, the M&S Christmas shop has some truly spectacular - and XL-sized - Christmas decor ideas to adorn your abode with this festive season.

The sellout super-sized M&S Christmas bows that went viral last year are back again for another year. The brand also turned some of its foodhall bestsellers into adorable Christmas baubles – and people are going crazy for the cookies decs. But if you like a bit of Scandi-inspired flair, these M&S paper stars are for you.

Last year, paper stars were already one of the biggest Christmas decor trends. But this year, it’s all about the striped ones which we got a sneak peek of last Christmas with Habitat’s striped paper Christmas stars which were extremely popular with shoppers. And I predict the same fate for these super stylish ones from M&S.

They’re perfect for decorating everything from walls and staircase ideas to doors and windows, equipped with a toggle-adjustable mesh ribbon matching the star to hang it with. There’s only one question remaining – do you go red or green? Personally, I’m leaning towards the red version. Meanwhile our Digital Editor, Rebecca Knight is adding the green one to basket to go with her pink-painted living room that also features a green sofa and accessories.

But if they manage to sell out before you get there in time, I’ve found some alternative striped paper Christmas stars to decorate your home with instead.

Alternative striped Christmas paper stars

Which striped paper Christmas star are you going for?

A couple of Christmases ago, Marks & Spencer first introduced its supersized velvet bow decorations at the height of the Christmas bow trend – unsurprisingly, they went viral and sold out within days. And this has happened every year since – as soon as the M&S velvet hanging bows go live on the brand’s site, they fly off the virtual shelves. M&S just brought them back, along with new colours, patterns and finishes, and they’re bound to be gone by October.

I know I probably sound like a broken record when it comes to the bow Christmas decor trend – but Christmas bows are not going anywhere anytime soon; they’re here to stay for at least another festive season. And just like previous years, the bigger the bow, the better.

But while previous festive periods really championed the solid-coloured velvet bows, this year, I’m seeing a lot more patterned bows – especially gingham and checks. And it’s in fact the newcoming £20 M&S gingham bow, which I spotted at the retailer’s press preview earlier this month, that I predict is going to sell out first. It looks so good that I want one.

But M&S is not the only retailer where you can get a big gingham or checked Christmas bow – John Lewis is selling a red gingham bow for £15, while Anthropologie gave its XXL bow tree topper (which enjoyed much popularity last year) a plaid makeover among others.

But if the more traditional and equally as beautiful velvet bows are more your thing then there’s plenty for you to choose from. For starters, there are two different sizes.

There are 65-centimetre long velvet bows (which are the same size as the gingham bow) available in three colourways, all selling for £20 each – there’s the classic deep red, as well as dark green and (my personal favourite) chocolate brown.

But things - or bows, rather - get even bigger from here. M&S is also selling velvet Christmas bows that are 95-centimetre long, each retailing for £30. And this size is available either in the timeless dark red or in a new finish which is black velvet embellished with white pearl beads.

Which M&S XL Christmas bow is your favourite? I might have to get one of those gingham numbers before they’re gone.

This is not a drill! M&S’s light-up candles have returned to stores, and they're already listed as bestsellers on the website. As we’ve learned from the previous two years, these candles sell fast, so don’t hang around if you want to pick one up for yourself.

Over the past few years, M&S have dropped their light-up Christmas candles in September, and they quickly sell out. While I hate to beat the Christmas drum before we’ve even had Halloween, these candles are worth picking up now to avoid disappointment nearer to the best day - trust me, I’ve seen one in action.

And this year, the M&S light-up candles have had an update compared to their typical snowy cityscapes. Here’s everything you need to know before they sell out again.

So far, three new candles have dropped on the M&S website: Mandarin, Clove and Cinnamon; Frankincense and Myrrh; and Yultide Pine and Spice.

This year the candles have been named by scent rather than the scene they’re depicting. In previous years we’ve seen snowy London, Paris, Edinburgh and even Cardiff skylines, each illuminated by twinkling LED’s when lit. This year, three new scents take the forefront of the brand’s bestselling Christmas candles.

First, let's talk about Mandarin, Clove and Cinnamon. This sweet, yet spicy fragrance is held in a red vessel, depicting a snowy townscape. It has citrus notes of lemon, bergamot, grapefruit, orange and mandarin, as well as peppery clove and cinnamon.

As you would probably guess, the Frankincense and Myrrh candle smells of Frankincense and Myrrh. However, M&S explains that Frankincense is part of the amber family of fragrance, which is rich and warming, and means you may smell notes of vanilla, pepper, tonka bean and amber. The vessel itself is a beautiful gold sky of stars.

Lastly, the Yultide Pine and Spice candle comes in a green vessel depicting a wintry forest scene. It combines earthy fir, spices and sweet clementine for a truly festive scent. You can expect woody notes of sandalwood, cinnamon leaf, amber and musk.

All three candles are refillable (which also happens to be a big candle trend this year) and are held in glass vessels for a weighty, luxe feel. Built into the glass are twinkling LED lights which light up when the candle is lit. What this does is create an even more beautiful, festive glow to your candlelight. Having purchased the Townhouse candle in 2024 as a gift for my partner’s mum, I can promise that these candles really take a Christmas tablescape to the next level.

These three scents are new to the light-up candle range, and I haven’t had a chance to smell them yet. I have smelt the Neroli, Lime & Bergamot scent, which M&S has used for previous light-up candles, and can vouch that it has a gorgeous, rich and festive scent. Based on this, I trust the new candles will be of equal quality - although I do plan on testing them out for myself as soon as possible.

So far, these are the only three light-up candles available on the M&S website. However, I will be checking the website regularly to check for new designs if and when they come in. In the meantime, here are a few more M&S Christmas scents that have caught my eye.

These light-up candles always sell fast, so if you like what you see, I recommend purchasing now to avoid disappoinment later.

With the arrival of September, the seasons are slowly shifting – and Marks & Spencer has been gradually releasing its autumn homeware collection. Some of the best pieces are already selling out – and I predict the just-dropped M&S ceramic table lamp won’t hang around for long either.

I got to see this stylish living room lighting idea IRL early a couple of weeks ago at the M&S autumn/winter 2026 press preview. And it was on this occasion that M&S Insider, James Rotheram revealed that this lamp is ‘the design of the season’, much like last season it was all about the M&S all-over glass table lamp.

The high-street brand is well-known and loved for its amazing lighting range which never ceases to amaze me with its new designer-look launches. So it’s perhaps no surprise that both of the new-season table lamps we at Ideal Home have been loving and have written about are already out of stock – the M&S alabaster and marble lamp and the new double-layer amber glass table lamp.

So what’s so special about this new £100 table lamp launch? As both the conical-shaped lampshade and base are ceramic, it’s really all about the glossy glaze finish which creates some beautiful effects as it reflects the light (as you can see in the below image I took of the lamp at the press preview).

Since the days are getting shorter and darker as we move into the cosy autumn season, a glossy, light-reflective lamp like this one is perfect for this time of the year. And I’m sure if you were to light a candle in the lamp’s vicinity, it would make for some pretty effects, too.

At the press showcase, M&S also had a beige version of this table lamp on display which has yet to launch. But to be honest, this dark green colourway has been my top pick all along.

More new-season M&S table lamp picks

Are you looking to add a new table lamp or two into your home this autumn season? And could this all-ceramic number from M&S be the one?

M&S has just launched a new collection of zipped duvet covers, and they're a game-changer for hassle-free bedding.

What's more, this new bedding collection isn't just practical; it's also one of the most stylish autumn bedding ranges I've seen so far this year.

Plus, prices for one of the collection's star bedding sets – the M&S Brushed Cotton Melange Printed Geo Bedding Set – start from just £30.

If you're looking to cosy up your bed, ready for the 'ber' seasons of September, October, November, and December, I think M&S is the place to shop this autumn.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I always choose M&S as one of my top recommendations for where to buy bedding.

In my opinion, the brand's bedding reliably offers good looks, value for money, and ease of care. Every season, M&S nails stylish design, affordable prices, and practical materials that wash well.

However, this season, I think M&S has added another convincing reason to shop its bedding range. Namely: it's ditched faffy buttonhole or popper duvet closures, and replaced them with zips.

I've done the math and Marks & Spencer's has over 60 zipped duvet covers in its collection this autumn. That's more than I've ever seen at any retailer, and if you're in favour of hassle-free bedding, this is a big deal.

After all, there's a reason that coverless duvets are currently taking the bedding market by storm, and that reason is the promise of faff-free laundry days.

Are coverless duvets a good idea? Personally, I'm not sure they suit everyone. But their popularity is definitely a sign that we're all looking for ways to make our lives easier, and that includes time-saving bedding choices.

I doubt that any of us would name changing a duvet cover as one of our favourite household tasks, and there's no denying that simply zipping up a duvet cover is quicker and easier than forcing ten buttons (that never seem to fit) through ten buttonholes (and then constantly rebuttoning them every time one pops undone).

Plus, the expansion of M&S's zipped duvet cover range means that the brand's zipped bedding sets now include some *very* stylish options. We saw a curated edit of the autumn bedding collection at M&S's Press Show earlier in the year, and the Ideal Home team was definitely impressed.

Both the £30 M&S Brushed Cotton Melange Printed Geo Bedding Set and my personal favourite, the uber-autumnal M&S Checkerboard Gauze Jacquard Bedding Set, nail one of this autumn's hottest bedding trends.

From bedroom rug trends to what goes on the bed, design experts say geometrics are one of the key looks of the season. And when those checkerboard geometrics are paired with this autumn's most stylish colourways – moss green and aubergine – the effect is an instant bedroom upgrade.

That said, geometrics aren't the only bedding to benefit from M&S's new hassle-free zip closures. I've rounded up some more of my favourites below.

Shop zipped duvet covers at M&S

Just when I thought M&S lighting couldn’t get any better, the supermarket has only gone and dropped the Double Layer Shade Glass Base Table Lamp (£100), and its retro look is all you need to create a cosy atmosphere at home this autumn.

Warm lighting has not only been a huge lighting trend in 2026, but it is also perfect for transitioning into the cooler nights. Just think, nights curled up on the sofa with a soft, amber glow to keep you company.

M&S's latest all-over-glass lamp is a beautiful shade of amber, and with its retro, textured design, it’s easy to see why this lamp is already a bestseller on the website. But if you like what you see, I’d act fast, as lamps as good as this one are never in stock for long.

Earlier this year, M&S dropped a designer-look glass lamp, and it was quick to sell out. We were so impressed that M&S was even drawing comparisons with Soho Home amongst the Ideal Home team.

Now the brand is dropping its AW26 collections; it seems they have no intention of letting the designer allegations slip, having dropped a gorgeous marble table lamp, a glossy all-ceramic table lamp and now this amber glass table lamp.

The Double Layer Shade Glass Base Table Lamp has both a glass base and shade, with a built-in double layer to produce soft, circular pools of light. M&S says the cable is visible to add an industrial touch to the entire look.

Its regular, geometric design adds to its mid-century look, while the amber glass is the perfect autumn colourway. If you’re a fan of warm-toned, cosy living room ideas, this lamp simply must be part of them.

There's a good reason I'm hammering the point of a cosy glow. If I’ve learned anything at an interiors magazine, it’s that good lighting really does have the power to define the ambience of a room. Warm-toned glass such as this lamp softens and warms dark, miserable evenings - I’d bet it will be a game-changer when the nights grow longer.

'Warm-coloured glass lighting (like amber and brown) has been one of the biggest lighting trends of this year, so this gorgeous M&S lamp is very much on-trend. It's also perfect for creating a cosy atmosphere as it's going to produce a very warm shade of light. It's definitely on the pricier side but considering the designer look with a mid-century meets art deco aesthetic, I think it's worth it,’ says Sara Hesikova, Ideal Home’s Room Decor Editor.

If you’re not completely satisfied with this luxe-look glass lamp, here are a few more styles new to M&S.

M&S amber glass lamp as completely won me over. It is a bit of an investment, but I think its designer-look is worth it.

I don't know about you, but where I live, it suddenly seems to have become autumn.

Only a week ago, I was hot, sweaty, and struggling to sleep during the latest summer heatwave, and now overnight temperatures have dropped to just 6°C, and it's suddenly chilly when the sun goes down.

Little wonder, then, that savvy M&S shoppers are already snapping up the brand's latest launch: the £20 M&S Brushed Cotton Striped Bedding Set.

Soft, cosy, and selling out in record time last year, I think this is the autumn bedding to snap up now, before the cold weather really hits, and this budget-friendly buy disappears from the shelves.

When it comes to where to buy bedding, M&S is always one of my top recommendations. However, I always think it's the brand's winter bedding that really hits the mark.

Last year, Marks & Spencer nailed one of the winter's biggest bedding trends with a sell-out brushed bedding collection that was one of the most stylish – and most affordable – ranges on the high street. And it looks like this year is going to follow suit.

The brand has just quietly dropped the first few lines of its autumn 2026 bedding collection, and this brushed cotton bedding set is already being snapped up by shoppers.

In fact, it's one of the most shopped bedding sets on the M&S website right now, according to the brand's on-site data.

I'm not surprised this set duvet cover and pillowcase set is proving so popular. To my mind, it nails the look and feel that many of us are craving after one of the hottest summers on record.

I, for one, can't wait for some cooler weather, and this is one of the first years I'm actually looking forward to getting cosy in bed as the nights draw in.

The best brushed cotton bedding is perfect for creating those cosy-core vibes. Plus, M&S has upped the cosy vibes even further by combining this tactile flannelette fabric with a traditional ticking stripe.

For me at least, the overall effect feels nostalgic, comforting, and a bit like being tucked up into bed at a favourite Nan or Grandma's house!

The striped collection is available in four autumnal shades: fern green, slate blue, dove grey, and a neutral linen colourway. And right now, they're all still in stock.

However, I have a feeling they won't stay that way. Especially once the cooler weather really hits. If last year is anything to go by, I imagine sizes will start disappearing fast.

Personally, I can't imagine any cosier bedding to hunker down under this autumn. That said, M&S does have some more great winter-warmers beginning to land on site and in-store. I've rounded up a few more new-season favourites below.

Shop alternatives

Marks & Spencer’s new homeware for the autumn season is slowly starting to drop on the brand’s website. And this week, the new M&S Alabaster & Marble Rechargeable Table Lamp landed on the site and it’s already trending.

For the past few months, I’ve been saying that alabaster is going to be the next big lighting trend as I’ve been seeing it everywhere from this year’s WOW!house design showcase to Industville’s new lighting range. The brand’s alabaster slope pendant light was even awarded the title of ‘best dining room lighting’ in the Ideal Home Dining Room Awards 2026. And now the trend is making its way to the high street with the likes of M&S - a brand known for its stylish lighting like the latest M&S ceramic table lamp - embracing the material.

Alabaster is a soft, fine-grained type of stone that’s historically been used for statues. But as it lets light pass through it, it’s also become a popular material for light fixtures.

‘Alabaster has long been valued for its unique light-modulating quality with everyone from the sculptors of ancient Greece to the designers of today. Its ability to diffuse light from within allows the illumination to permeate the surface like sunlight through a cloud, creating a soft, warm and atmospheric glow,’ explains Mara Rypacek Miller, founder of Industville.

As it is a natural material, just as the marble base, it’s no surprise that the M&S table lamp is not the cheapest, selling for £95. But in all honesty, I’m almost surprised it’s not pricier than this. Considering the materials used, it’s almost reasonably priced.

I first spotted Marks & Spencer’s new living room lighting idea in an Instagram reel by M&S insider James Rotheram. And it’s one of the most stylish lamps I’ve seen in a while. I especially love the alabaster shade as it reminds me of the moon when it’s lit up, owing to the stone’s natural veining.

‘Subtle veining and tonal variation give each piece a unique, living quality. For lighting, it offers something that glass or synthetic materials cannot replicate, combining natural texture and organic patterns with a beautifully diffused light,’ Mara at Industville says.

But the marble base perfectly complements the natural pattern of the alabaster. Not to mention that it’s one of the most beautiful wireless lamps I’ve seen in a while – that’s right, no ugly cords are going to get in the way. That’s why it looks so chic styled on James’ coffee table.

More alabaster lighting

Mara at Industville concludes, ‘Its renewed popularity reflects a growing desire for interiors that feel warmer, more tactile and connected to natural materials.’

You might think it’s way too early to be thinking about Christmas. But Marks & Spencer’s cult favourite foodhall-inspired Christmas decorations just went live this week, and they’re already flying off the shelves – with the cookies being everyone’s favourite.

I know, I know! It’s only August; it’s still technically summer – so why am I talking to you about Christmas already?! I don’t get to decide when new collections, products and the best Christmas decorations drop, so please don’t shoot the messenger. But I’m afraid that if you wait to shop these adorable decs until next month or even longer, then they might be gone.

Every year, these foodie decorations are an instant sellout success as soon as the M&S Christmas shop opens – but this year, the retailer is going live even earlier with a quiet drop of these iconic designs even ahead of the actual opening of the full Christmas shop. And yet, shoppers have managed to find their way to them, as the already-mentioned Cookies tree decoration is currently trending on the M&S website.

Last year, it was all about the Colin the Caterpillar bauble which quickly sold out. Sadly, this beloved design isn’t back this year, or at least not yet – there’s still a chance more designs will launch once the Christmas shop officially opens. Instead, M&S is selling a Connie the Caterpillar decoration this year, likely assuming most people have already got Colin last year and can now get Connie to have the full pair. And the attention to detail is impressive as the glass decoration comes boxed just like the dessert would.

These are all the foodhall-themed M&S Christmas decorations that I recommend snapping now while you still can so that you don’t have to regret missing out later.

Top picks

Which one of these foodie M&S baubles is your favourite? Or are you waiting for the season to be a bit more appropriate for Christmas decoration shopping and more Christmas shops to open before committing?

If 10 years ago you’d told me that M&S would be one of the hottest places to shop for fashion and homeware, I wouldn’t have believed you. Maybe I’ve gotten old, but it really does seem like M&S has ditched the ‘old lady’ of the high street image and now not only produces some of the best homeware pieces but also is setting many home decor trends itself.

Right now, M&S is hosting a huge sale across its fashion and home lines, and I’ve sifted through to find the very best. From statement lighting (including the viral fabric table lamps) to sophisticated diningware, there are plenty of gorgeous buys to elevate your home on a budget.

I’ve found nine luxe-look pieces for under £50 that will make your home look effortlessly chic. You don’t want to miss it.

Not many high street brands can nail the high-end look quite as well as M&S. While a sale is always a good excuse to find a bargain, these staple pieces will genuinely elevate your home for years to come.

As with any sale, this one won't last forever. So, if something's caught your eye, make sure to check it out sooner rather than later.

I put the M&S Stay Cool 10cm Depth Mattress Topper to the test to see how it compares to the best cooling mattress toppers on the market.

In a nutshell

As a sleep-product reviewer, I’ve tested some of the best mattress toppers out there, including two of my favourites for hot weather or hot sleepers: the Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper and the Simba Cool Foam mattress topper.

So when I heard about Marks & Spencer’s latest cooling mattress topper – the relatively inexpensive M&S Stay Cool Mattress Topper, which is £75 for a single – I was keen to give it a test run.

Overall, I was fairly impressed. This topper doesn't offer much support, but if you like a soft, sink-in sleep surface, I found its 10cm deep polyester fill was comfortable.

I’m also a fairly hot sleeper, who, like Goldilocks, struggles to sleep unless my temperature is “just right”, and whilst I didn't find this topper actively cool, it also didn't make me overheat (even when testing it during a heatwave).

The main downsides (for me) are the fact it can't be washed, needs regular shaking to 'refluff' it, and I do prefer a bit of a more supportive sleep surface.

However, the M&S Stay Cool is good value for money, and, whilst some toppers do offer better cooling relief for hot sleepers (more on those below), if you're looking for a soft topper that can provide a 'breaker' layer between a sweat-inducing mattress and your body, it does the trick without breaking the bank.

Specifications

• RRP: £75 / £85 / £95 / £105
• Sizes: single / double / king / super-king
• Depth: 10cm
• Construction: polyester cover, polyester wadding fill
• Care instructions: do not wash, do not tumble dry, do not dry clean
• Manufacturer sleep trial: no

Attaching the topper to the bed

The M&S Stay Cool mattress topper comes in a large fabric carry case. This might be handy if you need to pack it away often – if it’s for a sofa bed or a campervan, for example. The bag is definitely designed to be reused, with reasonably strong zips and reinforced edges.

The mattress topper itself was folded inside the bag, and was easy to pull out and slide onto my bed. There was no off-gassing smell or waiting for it to replump like you get with memory-foam mattress toppers.

When it comes to attaching it to your bed, there are thick elasticated straps at each corner. This easily slid over even my very thick Brook + Wilde mattress.

There is no anti-slip coating on the bottom of this topper, but this didn’t seem to matter as it stayed in place well.

Comfort

I took the Simba Cool Foam topper off my bed to test the M&S Stay Cool topper. The Cool Foam is a medium-feel topper, and the M&S Stay Cool is noticeably softer still. This topper is definitely designed to soften a mattress rather than to boost support.

This stacks up when you look at what the fillings are in the M&S Stay Cool topper. It’s made from 100 per cent polyester. This tends to be much squishier than fillings such as memory foam and the micro springs you find in hybrid mattress toppers.

I found that when I lay on it, it gave an immediate feeling of comfort – like being wrapped in a duvet. However, it lacks much responsiveness. Responsiveness is the term sleep experts use when we’re talking about how a sleep surface bounces back and how easy it therefore is to move on your mattress.

If you’re a combination sleeper – ie. you move from back to side to front while you’re sleeping – you’ll appreciate a more responsive sleep surface.

I am a combination sleeper (side and back, if you’re wondering), and found that moving around was fine for me but it wasn’t as smooth as it is on a spring mattress/mattress topper. If you have mobility issues, its sink-in softness may mean it's not the topper for you.

During testing, I used the Stay Cool mattress topper on an already very comfortable mattress so I wasn’t using the topper to improve the feel of my sleep surface.

However, I do think it would work brilliantly to soften up a too-firm mattress, or add an extra layer of gentle comfort. It would be ideal to give a bit of cushioning to those dreaded university student mattresses for example, or to offer a little extra “ahhh” feeling to a mattress or sofa bed in a spare room.

Temperature regulation

Because of its 'Stay Cool' name, the temperature regulation on this mattress topper is one of things I was really interested in. Especially seeing as this topper is made of 100% polyester, and synthetic fibres are often prone to *causing* overheating in bed, not preventing it.

However, while there are no active cooling gels, or cooling fibres, in this topper, it is lofty at 10cm. This means that there should be space between the polyester wadding, which potentially allows for good air flow through the topper, removing hot air and replacing it with cooler air under the body.

I tested this mattress topper during an absolutely scorching British heatwave – record-breaking, in fact. I found that I didn’t overheat on the topper, but I wasn’t completely convinced that it was any more cooling than a decent mattress or a natural-fibre mattress topper.

However – and this is important – I didn’t wake up in a sweaty mess on this mattress topper. Did it make me actively feel cool? No, but it didn't make me feel hotter either. And this can't be said of many of the toppers I've tested.

I do wonder if its breathability might be impacted over time as the wadding compresses under my body weight and those 'air pockets' are lost, but I’m a fairly hot sleeper, and as I say, my sleep wasn’t disturbed when I tested the Stay Cool mattress topper.

Overall, I found the Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper, Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper, and Simba Cool Foam Mattress Topper cooler to sleep on. But although I found they did a better job of offering relief in hot weather, they are more expensive.

Care instructions

Caring for this mattress topper is, I guess, very simple, in that you can’t really care for it. The care instructions say that you can’t machine wash or dry clean it.

Considering it's made from polyester (which is usually a fabric that can be bunged in the washing machine on a high temperature), I found this quite surprising. The Silentnight Deep Sleep Ultimate 1000 Mattress Topper we recently tested uses very similar materials, and that can be washed at 40C and tumble dried.

However, whilst this might put off some, you could get around the issue by using a good mattress protector over the topper to maintain a clean sleep environment. You might just want to opt for an extra-deep protector as the loft on this topper is quite high.

I also found that after a week of sleeping on the topper, it needed a bit of a shake-out and fluffing when I changed my bed sheets. This wasn’t a big job, but if you have a larger bed, it does require a bit of upper-body strength. It is box-baffle stitched, which helps keep the fillings in place.

Sleep trial

M&S doesn't offer sleep trials on any of its bedding, which, considering competitors such as Simba, Panda, and Woolroom do, I always think is a bit of a shame.

A sleep trial does help you to assess whether a piece of bedding works for your sleep setup before you commit to keeping it, so without a trial available, it does come down to making your best guess about whether the Stay Cool topper is for you.

Value for money

At £75 for a single and £85 for a double, this topper is pretty reasonably priced.

It's certainly a lot cheaper than some of the best cooling mattress toppers we've tested. For instance, the highly breathable Woolroom Deluxe Wool Mattress Topper costs £289.99 for a double, and the cooling graphite-infused Simba Hybrid Mattress Topper costs £349 for a double.

However, I didn't feel the M&S Stay Cool's cooling powers were quite as good as those more expensive options, and, when you compare it to other toppers of a similar construction, it's actually a little expensive.

For instance, the Silentnight Deep Sleep Ultimate 1000 Mattress Topper is also 10cm deep, offers a similar polyester construction, can be machine washed, and the Silentnight Deep Sleep Ultimate 1000 Mattress Topper currently costs £39.99 at Amazon, or it's £59.99 for a double of the Silentnight Deep Sleep Ultimate 1000 Mattress Topper at Argos.

How I tested

Usual sleep position: side
Tension preference: medium-firm
Sleep problems: hip pain

I tested a king-size version of the Stay Cool mattress topper over the course of a week in a record-breaking British heatwave. During this time I slept on the topper, paying attention to comfort levels and how it affected my sleep. I also pondered how hot I felt sleeping on the topper – this is after all a cooling mattress topper. Lastly, I considered how easy it was to attach to the bed, ease of care, and value for money.

I love linen bedding. As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've spent the past five years testing the best bedding on the market, and, as a hot sleeper, I've learnt that I definitely sleep best under a cool and breathable linen bedding set.

However, I know that not everyone feels the same way. If you prefer the look of crisp, crease-free cotton sheets, then even the best linen bedding can feel a little *too* laidback and crumpled.

However, Marks and Spencer has just changed all that. In my opinion, the new M&S Pure Linen Bedding Set is the ideal solution if you want to benefit from a cooler sleep whilst still retaining elevated hotel-luxe vibes in your boudoir.

Why is this bedding set so different? Two things. First, this 190gsm fabric has a more structured feel than most linen bedding. That means that it drapes a little more smoothly when it's on the bed, which results in a more refined look.

And secondly, those smart piped edges. It may seem like a small detail, but when it comes to bedding that delivers hotel-luxe vibes and brings a more 'expensive' and elevated feel to the bedroom, it is *all* about the detail.

Piped edges frequently feature on high-end cotton bedding, but it's a detail I haven't seen incorporated into a linen bedding set before. And, to my mind at least, it adds a whole new look to this timeless fabric.

Plus, you still get to benefit from linen's *fantastic* breathability. Something especially important in this increasingly long run of hot weather we've been experiencing in many parts of the country.

That's because good breathability equals good airflow, and bedding that allows good airflow enables the body to regulate its temperature better, which in turn results in a deeper and more restorative sleep.

Little wonder then that I'm not alone in being impressed by M&S' new launch. 'Beautiful quality linen,' says one 5-star review on the M&S website. 'Smart piping elevates the look.'

'Great quality,' raves another owner. 'The piping on duvet cover and pillowcases is a nice addition... so far best linen bedding I have purchased. Highly recommended.'

'Cool to sleep in and washes well,' says another happy M&S shopper.

When it comes to where to buy bedding that offers both cool sleep and hotel-luxe design, M&S is clearly the place to shop.

Plus, Marks and Spencer is one of the best places to snap up affordable linen bedding; its non-piped bedding set is the most budget-friendly I've tested. I've rounded up a few more of the brand's most cooling sleep solutions below.

I'll let you into one of my best kept secrets - a towel refresh is one of the fastest (and most budget-friendly) ways to update a bathroom scheme. And M&S' trusty towels are the most effective ways to achieve it.

It can be hard to know how to refresh a bathroom without undergoing a full renovation project, and if you're in a rented home, this is made even more challenging by uninspiring bathroom designs that you can't change.

So, often the extent of a bathroom update is left to the small things we can change. Bath mats and bathroom storage ideas can add some much-needed character to a space, but the best towels are my favourite way to inject colour and personality in one fell swoop.

M&S has some of the most stylish towels I've seen in a long while, which has inspired me to update my own this summer. With guests staying in the upcoming month, it's the perfect time to hit buy on these picks.

Interiors trends are always reflected in small ways through towel designs, so it's a great way to try out a trend without investing too much time or effort.

Frills have been seen in so many different formats in 2026. Whether on the bottom of a sofa for a kitsch living room look or on a cafe curtain to add flair to a window, frills are a small touch that add a vintage-inspired look to any interior.

M&S' selection of trend-inspired towels doesn't stop there either. This cream blanket stitch towel adds subtle interest to the edge, creating a look that is a little bit different to your normal plain towel.

Colourful, checkerboard-patterned towels have been a big trend in 2026, but I'm leaning towards more pared-back styles with small embroidered details for the next season.

I'm predicting that this spotty embroidered towel will also be a huge hit for autumn. It comes in so many colours to suit any bathroom colour scheme, and I'm personally eyeing up the white and blue colourway to match my coastal countryside aesthetic.

Not only are they bang on trend, but these towels are also great value for the quality. These picks are all pure cotton and start as low as £6 for a hand towel and go up to £30 for a bath sheet, so you don't have to break the bank to purchase a full set.

Shop M&S towels

Looking for a bigger bathroom project? Colourful shower trays are showing that 70s style is set to be back in a big way, but if you can't invest in a full colourful bathroom overhaul, there's always the option to go big with your towels or bath mat.

M&S shoppers are raving about this £20 cooling sheet, and with another July heatwave predicted to begin soon, I can see why it's selling out fast.

I slept on the M&S Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet last night, and I can confirm it definitely feels cooler than any other sheet I've trialed during these past few *very* hot weeks.

When it comes to where to buy bedding to cool down in the heatwave, it seems M&S is the place to shop right now.

Even when the UK *isn't* experiencing extreme temperatures, overheating in bed is a problem many of us struggle with.

That's in no small part due to the petroleum-based polyesters that so much bedding is made from – experts often dub these fibres a hidden sleep thief because they lack breathability and reflect body heat back towards the sleeper rather than letting it dissipate. This causes our body temperature to rise and often wakes us from our slumber.

Manufacturers know how to market to these struggles, so it's little wonder the bedding world is filled with products containing 'cool' and 'ice' in their product names.

However, as Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I've tested a *lot* of cooling bedding in the past five years, and, unfortunately, I've often been underwhelmed by the claims.

During my team's and my testing of mattresses, duvets, and pillows, we've repeatedly found that, at best, cooling claims can be short-lived cool-to-the-touch surfaces that soon heat up after a few minutes, and, at worst, those claims can be downright misleading.

So when I saw that M&S is selling 'Stay Cool' bedding, I had to admit that despite my faith in the retailer, I was a little cynical at first. But then, I saw the product reviews. Over 600 of them already, and over 400 of those have given this sheet 5 out of 5 stars.

I know that M&S shoppers don't mince their words with their likes and dislikes, so when they say something works, I believe them.

Plus, when reviews sound like: 'It's like slipping into a cool bath without the water,' and, 'These sheets are so cool and comfortable. Highly recommend them, especially for menopausal women, they are a delight,' plus, 'Highly recommend these sheets. Lovely and cool. I have tried Dunelm and John Lewis, but nothing compares. I suffer from hot flushes all year round. These make such a difference,' then my ears definitely perk up.

As a hot sleeper, I had to try the M&S Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet for myself, and when I popped this sheet onto my bed last night, I soon realised those M&S reviews were right. That's because, reader, it's actually cool.

Like really cool. Not just cool for the two minutes you put your hand on it in the store and then hotter than the sun once you're lying on it at home. (Can you tell this hot sleeper is still holding onto some bedding-related 'cooling promise' trauma?).

As I write this, I'm lying on my bed, on the sheet (in the name of research, promise). I've been lying here for 30 minutes, and the sheet still feels cool.

Now don't get me wrong. This sheet isn't fridge-like. If you're someone who's currently trying to find an in-stock portable air conditioner, then, unfortunately, this sheet isn't going to deliver quite the same icy chill. But it is far cooler than any other sheet I have in my (by now extremely crammed) bedding closet.

As you'll see from the picture below, I laid my coolest fitted sheets side by side and, in a very non-scientific way, rolled from one side of the bed to the other to see which side felt the coolest.

(Don't judge me for the wrinkled bedding, it's still too hot here to iron right now, although it may be worth noting that some of those M&S reviews do mention these sheets creasing badly – personally, I'm not too fussed by that, but you may be).

The blue sheet below is the M&S Stay Cool fitted sheet; the other is a 100% bamboo sheet. The M&S Stay Cool won in my at-home cooling competition. By some margin. In fact, as I lie here, it feels like the sheet is very gently sucking the heat from my body. Which is quite an odd sensation, but as someone who's pretty much always warm in summer, it's also very welcome.

I tested the M&S Stay Cool against bamboo sheets, which are silky soft and cool to the touch, and 100% lyocell sheets, which are a little less silky but similarly cool to the touch compared to regular cotton or linen.

The M&S Stay Cool sheet is 78% lyocell (which, according to my research, is a semi-synthetic, plant-based fabric that's commonly made from the dissolved wood pulp of eucalyptus or birch trees) and 22% cotton.

According to the care label, the packaging, and the M&S website description, nothing else is added. Which is why I'm a little confused as to how it can actually be this cool. But it certainly outperforms everything else I've tested when it comes to cooling.

Did the M&S Stay Cool Lyocell Rich Fitted Sheet keep me cool all night long? No, the area of the sheet that my body was laid on did eventually warm up during the night – but it didn't get warmer than any other sheet I tested.

The difference with this M&S sheet was that I never had to move a limb too far to find an instant hit of chill again, so this sheet definitely helped me stay cooler in bed than any other.

There's some voodoo at work here, to be sure. But with another heatwave predicted for early July and still a lot of summer to go, it's voodoo I'll happily accept for a cooler sleep.

I know exactly which sheets I'll be putting on my bed when the temperatures soar next week. Thank you, M&S.

The Ideal Home team and I all love Marks & Spencer’s homeware. But there is one category that I think the brand really excels at – and that’s lamps. I have a minor obsession with M&S lamps, so imagine my excitement when I found out that some of the most stylish and expensive-looking styles are currently on sale with 30% off.

The M&S lighting sale includes some of my favourite spring/summer 2026 lamps – from table lamps to the best wireless lamps and even floor lamps. You don’t have to stop at one since you could easily get your whole layered lighting scheme in this sale – and if you’ve heard me talk about lighting trends for this year or even the best living room lighting ideas, you’ll know that layered lighting is the way to go when creating a lovely, cosy ambience.

Can my home handle any more lamps? I don’t know if it can, but I’m feeling tempted nevertheless. These are the 6 lamps from this sale I’m currently eyeing and would recommend to anyone. But better be quick before they sell out!

My top picks

Do you agree with my top picks? Or which M&S lamps are you considering adding to your basket instead?

Yes, this week might have been a washout, but the weather forecast promises there are higher temperatures on the horizon. Now is the time to invest in a handheld fan before they inevitably sell out, and M&S has dropped an almost identical M&S travel fan to the cult £12 John Lewis handheld fan, but at a lower price point.

If you went on a train, underground or bus last summer (or even a few weeks ago), you'll have seen the John Lewis fan in action. It has not only thousands of reviews raving about it, but a fan following on the Ideal Home team, too.

It was one of the first sleek-looking handheld fans, but M&S is coming for its cult title with an even cheaper version at £10. It has a similar sleek profile to the John Lewis version but is available in several stylish neutral colour ways to complement your handbag collection and even your holiday/office outfits.

Now, this portable fan is not going to outperform the best fans at home, but when out and about, these little fans are a game-changer.

The M&S version is available in black, neutral, navy or khaki. Like the John Lewis version, it is easily rechargeable, and its clever design means that it can stand on a desk. It's fitted with rechargeable AA batteries, while its one-button operation makes it easy for anyone to use.

With 15 reviews from shoppers and a 4.8-star rating out of 5, most rave about its battery life, saying that it's impressive. They also love its speed options, as there are 3 to choose from. Most reviewers claim that it's well-made and that it's super handy for travelling.

In comparison, the John Lewis version is available in 5 colourways that are arguably a little more fun (with pink, purple and some blues) it also features 3 speed settings. Their designs are also the same — a fold-out stand is incorporated into its handle, so it can sit on a table.

A full charge takes 5 hours, and from this, the fan will work for 9 hours at its lowest speed, 6 hours on its medium speed and at its highest, 4 hours. With a lot to say from 3,000+ reviewers with a stellar 4.9-star rating, this fan is pleasantly powerful according to shoppers, as well as the perfect size, and most people own more than one!

Should you choose the M&S or John Lewis handheld fan?

The key difference between these fans is price — the M&S dupe is £2 cheaper. You'll also want to consider colour, if this matters to you. Then comes size as the M&S fan is slightly longer in length, at 25.5cm VS 25.1cm; both are roughly 11cm wide. It's unclear how long it takes the M&S fan to charge, and its battery life, but reviewers claim it's great.

All-in-all, it really boils down to colour preference and price. If you don't mind spending the extra £2 on a neutral colourway, then do it! If not, then keep it safe with the John Lewis model.

If you want to give your garden a superfast refresh, the answer isn't an expensive new garden furniture set (though that can help), the quickest, easiest and most affordable way to give your old garden set a new and on-trend refresh is outdoor cushions, and M&S's outdoor cushion collection this summer is one of the most stylish I've come across, with the most expensive costing £35.

A simple restyle of your garden seating corner can bring a totally new lease of life to your patio or decking. Then, when you layer in the best outdoor cushion, it can add a whole new dimension with new colours, textures and patterns. If you're going for a cool vibe, try opting for a blue and white colour scheme. Or if you want something more fun, opt for bold colours and designs, paired with fancy edging for a luxurious-looking finish.

I'm rather partial to an M&S living room cushion, and they've bought the same style for their outdoor-friendly cushions. The Dolce Vita Bird Outdoor Cushion, with its fun motif and embroidered detailing, is one of my personal favourites. These designs are proof that showerproof cushions don't always have to be plain and boring. Here are the others I'd happily snap up for a pre-summer garden zhush.

These outdoor cushions, paired with other garden accessories like a rug, the right garden lighting and even the best parasol, can tie up the loose ends of your garden design. They will pull your space together and make it look perfectly poised.

Just as you'd never leave an indoor sofa without some stylish cushions, garden sofas deserve some decorative details too. Give your outdoor seating a new look for the summer for under £50.

Marks & Spencer just quietly dropped its spring bedding collection, and with on-trend ginghams, florals, and striped bedding sets starting from £14, I'm not surprised these newly launched lines are already selling out fast.

As Ideal Home's Sleep Editor, I spend my days stalking new bedding collections, and in recent years, M&S has become one of my top recommendations for where to buy bedding.

Gone are the days when the brand offered great quality bedding that was a little... boring. In recent years, the brand's homeware has undergone something of a style revolution, with the homeware retailer now leading the way in translating the hottest design trends into affordable buys that work in real homes.

This season, the brand's bedding is a timeless take on the year's biggest bedding trends. It's pretty, practical, and all about the details.

Think muslin bedding sets with embroidered floral sprigs that echo the heirloom florals trend, jacquard detailing that brings understated luxe to the bedroom, woodblock prints, and stylish pencil stripes paired with frilled ginghams.

I've rounded up my top recommendations above. But, if you're on the hunt for some pretty spring bedding, you may need to move fast if you want to snap up your favourite looks.

As M&S becomes a firm favourite with savvy style hunters, its most popular lines don't stick around for long nowadays. Some of these sets began selling out almost as soon as they launched, with multiple colourways already running low on stock in several sizes.

Personally, I think this spring bedding is the perfect payday pick-me-up, so I'll certainly be 'adding to basket' asap.

If you’re a fan of the White Company’s signature minimalist, elegant style, then you’ll be interested in what I have to tell you. If you love The White Company but hate the prices, M&S’s homeware is the perfect, affordable alternative.

It’s no secret that M&S frequently nails the biggest home decor trend. But if recent designs are anything to go by, for example, their designer-look lighting section, M&S is serving expensive-looking homeware on a budget. Honestly, supermarket homeware has never looked so good.

We’ve already questioned whether M&S is giving Soho Home, but I think M&S is also the new White Company this year. These top picks prove it.

What first made me wonder: ‘Is M&S the new White Company?’ was when I spotted the Pure Cotton Coastal Embroidered Tablecloth (£35) in M&S’s ‘New In’ section, which instantly reminded me of The White Company's stunning Prise du Jour Embroidered Table Runner £50).

While coastal decor is trending once again this year, it is perhaps unsurprising that both brands have opted for blue, fish-themed styles. However, what I think M&S has done so well is encapsulate the luxe look, which the White Company achieves so effortlessly.

Here are some more styles I think M&S is doing just as well as the White Company this year.

Tablecloths

Lighting

Bedding

Servingware

Tableware

As someone who loves both The White Company and M&S, M&S is an excellent choice to shop White Company looks on a supermarket budget.

If you’re on the hunt for a new lampshade, M&S have got you covered with their pretty new wave scallop lamp shade. It's only just landed online, but it's already become a bestseller and sold out in one of the colourways.

As I do my daily scroll through all the homeware sites, it's clear that scalloped edging is a trend that's going nowhere. You'll spot it on everything from trays to terracotta plant pots. This £45 M&S lampshade has given the trend a sophisticated upgrade.

M&S is one of the best places to buy lighting at the moment. Each season, they knock it out of the park with a new trending table lamp. Most recently, it was the M&S amber glass table lamp that the whole Ideal Home team was obsessed with. However, it's not often you come across such a lust-worthy lampshade.

The lampshade itself is labelled as ‘large’ and is crafted from a softly tapered beige fabric. Paired with the lamp’s gentle, wave-like silhouette, it introduces a subtle sense of movement, adding a touch of softness to any room.

For me, what sets it apart is the coloured edging – a small detail that can make a big impact. It lends a vintage-inspired charm, elevating the design with a refined yet whimsical flair that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The lampshade nods to art deco sensibilities, blending classic style with a contemporary twist, making it an easy way to add personality but not feel overly fussy.

It can be paired with a ceiling pendant or used on an old floor lamp for a fresh new look. Available in three colourways – green, pink and brown (although the brown is currently sold out) – each option channels a subtle earthy 70s influence, offering just the right amount of colour and warmth without overwhelming a space.

If you’re a minimalist at heart, this light can adhere to your neutral dreams while adding a pop of colour to your home, or if you’re something of a dopamine core lover, it can be that finishing touch that ties in your colour scheme perfectly. In short, this versatile lampshade can suit any home or living room lighting ideas.

Scalloped edging has always been a homeware classic, and while some people say it’s going out of style, I’d argue it’s here to stay. Julia Barnes, Product Director at ValueLights, said: 'Interiors are moving towards more playful, organic shapes, and a scalloped style fits beautifully within that shift. Scalloped styles feel fresh and modern, making them a great choice for more personality-led spaces.'

M&S are not the only place that is taking on this scalloped trend. Here are a couple of other table lamps and lampshades that are nailing the look.

If you want a lampshade that is a delicate but playful addition to your home, run, don’t walk to M&S.

I put the M&S Duck Feather & Down Duvet to the test to see how this affordable feather and down duvet performs.

In a nutshell

In Ideal Home's round-up of the best duvets money can buy, we rate scooms’ Hungarian Goose Down Duvet as one of the best feather and down duvets you can invest in, as well as the best all-seasons duvet.

I'm lucky enough to sleep with this scooms duvet on my bed every night, and I love it dearly. However, a single 4.5 tog option costs an eye-watering £175 thanks to its premium Hungarian goose down fill. In comparison, a single 4.5 tog in the M&S *duck* feather and down duvet costs just £39.50. So you better believe I was eager to see how they compared.

The good news for our bank balances is that this budget-friendly M&S option really impressed me. I tested the 3-in-1 M&S Duck Feather & Down Duvet 13.5 Tog All-Seasons Duvet, which includes 4.5 tog and 9 tog duvets, fastened together with very useful ties to create a snug 13.5 tog duvet. This means in this one product you’re set for a cosy night’s sleep, whatever the weather.

Admittedly, the duck feather and down fill doesn't feel as premium as the Hungarian goose down in my scooms duvet. The M&S option features a high ratio of feather to down (85% duck feather and 15% duck down to be exact), whereas the scooms option is almost pure fluffy down (90% Hungarian goose down & 10% Hungarian goose feather), and I could feel the difference. The M&S option felt a little clumpier and not as squishy and cloud-like as my beloved scooms bedding.

However, I was still pleased with the warmth and temperature-regulation this duvet delivered, and I stayed “just so” all night long during testing. It also felt far more luxurious than your average synthetic duvet. Overall, if you want a luxury hotel feel on a relatively small budget, I think this is a fantastic option.

M&S Duck Feather and Down Duvet review

Specifications

• RRP: £34.50-£115
• Sizes: single / double / king / super king
• Tog rating: 2.5 / 4.5 / 7.5 / 10.5 / 13.5 / 15 / all-seasons (4.5 + 9 = 13.5 tog)
• Materials: outer: cotton; filling: 85% duck feather, 15% duck down
• Care: machine wash at 40ºC, tumble dry on medium
• Manufacturer sleep trial: none

Feel

The M&S duck and feather down duvet comes in a smart, reusable storage bag with carry handles, but when I first unpacked it, I was slightly surprised by how little loft it has.

It seems I've gotten used to my super-cloud-like scooms Hungarian Goose Down Duvet, and this M&S version felt a little flat in comparison. In part, this is probably because the M&S version is filled with duck feathers and down rather than goose. Goose down has larger clusters and higher fill power than duck down.

However, despite its lower profile, I still found this M&S duvet did just what I love most about a feather and down duvet. And that's to offer a decent drape to tuck in around my body and cocoon me. It's also pretty lightweight. In comparison, my Scooms duvet is much heavier for the same tog rating.

I’ve also tested and own the Woolroom Deluxe Wool Duvet (yes, as a sleep product reviewer, I am spoilt in the bedding department). If I compare the M&S Duck Feather & Down Duvet to the Woolroom Deluxe, the M&S option has a much fluffier profile and more cosiness. On a made bed, it certainly looks inviting to jump into.

I also let out a little cheer when I unpackaged it, because there is a thoughtful and functional design touch here that so many duvets lack. As this is an all-seasons duvet, it comes in two parts: a 4.5 tog duvet and a 9 tog duvet – which you can fix together to create a 13.5 tog duvet.

The design feature I was rather pathetically thrilled about is the ties on the corners and edges of both duvets. This allows you to connect both duvets securely together, and they don’t become uncoupled. In comparison, my pricey Scooms duvets have detachable plastic poppers, which get lost, come off when changing the duvet and add a weird feeling to the whole perimeter of the duvet. No exaggeration to say that they’re the bane of my life.

The one downside I did notice initially is a slight scent of 'game' about the duvet. Although this should fade over time, and is perhaps to be expected given the filling.

Temperature regulation

I am prone to overheating, as is my husband, so we’re a fussy pair when it comes to duvets. We’ve both found our happy place under our scooms duvet, so I was intrigued to see if duck feathers would tick our boxes in the same way.

After testing, both my husband and I found the temperature regulation under the M&S feather and down was very decent, and on a par with the scooms duvet. I used my Oura 4 ring, which monitors my sleep quality during testing, and it told me I got “optimal” sleep under the duvet. In fact, my overall sleep score was above average.

That said, I do think temperature regulation is one area where my Woolroom Deluxe Wool Washable Duvet really comes into its own. It’s hard to beat wool’s temperature regulation when you compare wool vs feather duvets. The Woolroom Deluxe duvet seems to give my husband and me our own microclimates under one duvet.

However, I didn’t find myself kicking the M&S duvet off or wishing it were thicker. Even on chilly nights where I couldn’t wait to dive under my duvet, I felt quickly warm and yet didn’t wake at 3 am in a sweat.

And I am a huge fan of an all-seasons duvet. I like options, and these styles of duvets have three. You can find more info here on what duvet tog to buy, but basically, the 4.5 tog duvet is going to be fab on balmy summer nights, where you still want a cover for security but don’t need much warmth at all. And I love having a 9.5 tog as we move into mild, but not frigid, nights, whilst the 13.5 tog is a cosy winter warmth.

Ease of care

You can wash this duvet at 40ºC in your washing machine at home (or a laundrette if you need a larger-sized drum). This won’t be a high enough temperature to blitz allergy-causing dust mites (that requires a 60ºC blitz that this duvet can’t handle), but it’s a good option to give your duvet a refresh. You can also tumble dry it on medium, which again is hugely convenient.

The duvet is baffle boxed – meaning it's stitched in boxes to stop the filling from slipping. However, I still found I needed to fluff this duvet almost daily. This is pretty easy to do with a quick shake, but anyone with limited mobility or upper body strength might find it slightly challenging compared to a synthetic duvet.

I also found the zippable storage case was really handy for storing whichever duvet I wasn't using. Storing a duvet properly is an art, and this bag will allow proper airflow around the duvets and stop any mould building up (a real issue in feather and down duvets).

Sleep trial

There's no sleep trial available on M&S bedding unfortunately, which does mean that once you remove the duvet from its bag it's non-returnable. In comparison, my scooms duvet has a 60-night sleep trial, and my Woolroom duvet 30 nights.

I do think a sleep trial is a great feature, as although you may be able to squish the M&S duvet in-store if you have shop nearby, it's still hard to guess how you'll find sleeping under any duvet until you actually do.

Things like temperature regulation can be especially tricky to guage until you're actually getting hot and sweaty under a duvet, so this may or may not be a dealbreaker for you.

Value for money

Feather and down duvets are never going to be your most affordable duvet option. The manufacturing processes involved in harvesting the fillings mean they’re more expensive. And these fillings are traditionally considered better than other fillings – especially synthetic fillings – because of the level of warmth and luxurious comfort they provide.

Having said that, the M&S Duck Feather & Down Duvet in the 13.5 tog All-Seasons king-size version I tested is £99. (You can also buy it in separate 2.5, 4.5, 7.5, 10.5 and 13.5 togs if you prefer). In comparison, the equivalent 13.5 tog All-Seasons scooms Hungarian Goose Down Duvet would cost you a whopping £520 – so it's incredible value in comparison.

The fill in the M&S feather and down duvet is 85 per cent feather and 15 per cent down. In scooms, it’s 90 per cent down and 10 per cent goose feather. Down is the fluffier and more expensive filling, so this explains things somewhat. Plus, Hungarian goose down is considered the crème de la crème of feather and down. Duck is its slightly inferior cousin.

Alternatively, The White Company’s 13.5 tog Hungarian Goose Down Duve costs £440 and isn't an All-Seasons design (again, it’s goose rather than duck down).

I’ve tested a lot of duvets over the years, and on balance, I think this M&S option is a really reasonable price for a feather and down duvet. It may not feel as premium as my scooms option, but it does still feel like a good quality duvet. And you are getting three duvets to see you through all the seasons of the year, which I think is great value.

It also scores brilliantly on the M&S website, with nearly 800 reviews and an average customer rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. Owners rave about its temperature regulation qualities and how cosy it is, and I will certainly be recommending it to all of my friends as well.

How I tested

I tested the M&S Duck Feather & Down Duvet at home, on my bed. I share my bed with my aforementioned heat-sensitive husband, and if I’m very unlucky, one or more of my three children. While I asked my husband for his thoughts, I discounted most of my children’s feedback (sorry, kids).

During the testing period, it was a chilly February into March, with some warmer days – perfect for seeing how the duvet fared in different temperatures. I paid close attention to how quickly I warmed up under the duvet on cold days, and warmer nights too. I also monitored my sleep quality on all nights using my Oura Ring 4.

Other things I factored into my testing were the feel and quality of the duvet, how easy it is to care for, and, of course, value for money is always part of the duvet testing process at Ideal Home. I compared this duvet to similar options on the market, and considered how its performance compares to its price point.

If you’re a fan of striped upholstery, then listen up as the latest Kelly Hoppen x M&S collection is the gift that keeps on giving. I am, of course, talking about their new Striped Accent Chair (£349).

The striped upholstery trend is more than a typical trend. Stripes are timeless, and when used on the best chairs, become an effortlessly timeless statement piece. For anyone looking to add a little extra flair to their bedroom or living room ideas, a stripey chair is a sure win in our opinion.

Included in the latest Kelly Hoppen x M&S collection, this monochrome striped chair is crafted as a statement piece. If you're feeling bold this spring, here’s why we think it could be a great addition to your home.

Featuring thick black and white stripes, the accent chair is certainly an interesting piece. M&S describes it as ‘quirky’, which sums it up well. It has elevated seat cushions, plush arms and a low back for comfortable lounging as well as style.

I’m a big fan of its bulbous, oversized seat, which looks ideal for curling up in. If it's a curvaceous piece of furniture with no harsh corners, embracing the ongoing trend for curvy furniture, which not only adds interest to a room but is designed to make you feel more relaxed and cocooned.

The chair is finished with a stylish dark ash wood base and comes with a 10-year guarantee, so you can rest assured that you're sitting on a piece that is built to last rather than a flash-in-the-pan trend. Plus, it’s also an excellent price. At £349, this chair isn't cheap, but one of the most affordable armchairs of this size on the market. I was honestly stunned by the price tag and expected it to cost £100s more.

It’s also a piece that Kelly herself is really excited about, with the iconic interior designer sitting down with M&S to talk about her love of the striped accent chair.

‘Black and white monochrome is just so easy to use in any space. So, if you have colour - doesn’t matter if it’s orange, it’s red or blue - this works because it’s a one-off piece,’ she explained in the Instagram post.

‘The design details on this is that it’s comfortable, it’s wide enough, but it’s also small enough. I think in your home, I’ve found that you always find your chair, your place. I think this chair is going to be my place.’

Alternatives

If you’re yet to find a chair that feels like ‘you place’, this stripey statement piece from M&S could be the one. Can you see it in your home?

I’ve heard so many good things about the bestselling Marks & Spencer Apothecary range. When I finally smelled the scents for myself, I understood the hype – and I can say I’m a big fan now. So I was excited to hear that the collection just had an upgrade; the most popular fragrances from the collection (including my favourites) are now twice as strong as before, meaning the scent will last even longer.

The budget-friendly Apothecary home fragrance and bath and body offering spans everything from the best scented candles to room sprays, hand washes and lotions, as well as the best reed diffusers, among other things – and the prices start as low as £7. And that’s even after the reformulation that made the fragrances up to 50% more intense, which has introduced a small price increase, but a very minimal one.

Between the beautiful, relaxing, spa-worthy scents and the extremely affordable price points, it’s no surprise that during some of the busier times of the year, one product from the collection gets sold every 8 seconds.

Not to mention the fact that some of the fragrances are well-known to be very good alternatives for more expensive, high-end brands – especially the Warmth scent which is the perfect alternative for Le Labo’s popular Santal 33, available at John Lewis. I can tell you that you’d be hard pressed to find a candle of such quality and lovely soothing scent for £10 as you can here.

And with the increased strength of the bestselling Calm, Warmth, Restore, Sleep and Revitalise fragrances, the Apothecary range is a great budget swap for high-end candles as it can now rival how well it fills a room with scent, which often also affects how long it lingers afterwards.

My personal favourites are the Calm scent, as well as Restore and Sleep, all of which offer soothing, herbal scents with notes of lavender included in each one, with eucalyptus being another prominent ingredient.

These are some of the pieces from the M&S Apothecary range that are currently on my wish list and that are likely going to end up in my shopping basket.

My top picks

Have you tried the M&S Apothecary range? What did you think of it?