It isn't just M&S, the shops are full of awful dowdy patterned frocks, with odd waistlines, long sleeves and mid length skirts,, designed I think to make us all look awful.
Having said that, M&S top the list of awful clothes these days. Row after row of items no one would want to wear. I don't understand why they don't listen to the groups of women wandering the shops saying to each other 'awful isn't it, nothing to buy'.
Ive bought their cashmere polo necks, they wash well and my two are well into their 2nd winter and will continue. I tried t buy a sweater, pair of jeans and some pants. Failed. The food department seems to be the only success currently.