I shopped new season styles at Marks and Spencer, River Island, Next and New Look at the Arndale - here’s what stood out

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

Last weekend I found myself digging through my wardrobe to find some of last year's summer clothes to wear while sitting out in the garden during the warm spell.

I'm pretty basic, whenever it's warm I gravitate towards a pair of cotton shorts and a t-shirt, but it's not something I feel comfortable leaving the house in.

With that in mind, I decided a trip to the Arndale was in order to see what new styles are in the shops. I tasked myself with venturing from outside of my comfort zone and pick out pieces that I wouldn't typically wear but would still feel stylish and comfortable in.

For reference, I'm 5ft 4ins without any shoes and fit a size 14-16, depending on the shop and style of clothes. I visited Marks and Spencer, River Island, New Look and Next, here are my top picks. READ MORE: Next sale coatigan reduced to £17 is 'perfect when you don't want a big coat' READ MORE: Debenhams £2,000 watch slashed by 91% to £179 now so cheap shoppers want 'every colour' I was on the hunt for mostly summer dresses but my eye was immediately drawn to the Black Long Sleeve Broderie Patchwork Shirt (£42) and the matching trousers (£42) as soon as my eyes clocked on them in the store.