Marks and Spencers: Will They Ever Break Into The Student Market?

"Limited Collection" by Marks and Spencers.

With Marks and Spencers being stereo-typed as a 'grannies' shop, will they ever break into the student market?

Marks and Spencers have been on the high-street since 1928, and have always been the first to experiment with new fabric technologies, such as Tricell, Courtelle and Lycra. So why can't they keep up with fashion trends as quickly as other high-street stores?

 "Who would buy clothing from Marks and Spencers?"
 Only two of the seventeen students in my class would willingly admit to buying anything other than underwear and hosiery from the store. The reasons being that Marks and Spencers were stereo-typically known for providing clothes for older generations, and that they weren't designing clothes with the latest fashion trends in-mind.
Being one of those two people that would happily shop in Marks and Spencers, I argued my point that they were now producing clothes that were good value for money, and more fashionable for students.

An example of Marks and Spencers more fashionable range can be found in their shoe department. On a recent trip down the high-street, I noticed two pairs of 'Court Shoes' that were very alike. 'Office' were selling a pair of 'Ted Baker Court Shoes' for £100 whilst Marks and Spencers' 'Limited Collection' were selling a similar pair for £19.50. 

The 'Limited Collection' is Marks and Spencers most recent attempt at getting students through their doors. The collection offers clothes similar to that available in Topshop.

Looking at Marks and Spencers AW Season promotional video, their 'Preppy Chic' look includes studs and stripes that can also be found in fast-fashion stores 'Zara' and 'River Island'.

I'll admit... it is off-putting watching someone in their seventies pick up a dress that you were considering trying on... but lets be honest, when are you going to bump into them in a nightclub? and are they really going to wear it in the same way you will?

Regan x