Shoppers have welcomes M&S bringing back the St Michael logo in a collection created in collaboration with cult London streetwear label Aries.
Delighted fans took to parenting forum Mumsnet to say: "Just so excited to see St Michael logo back - fingers crossed they’ve realised people value it."
Another added: "It used to be a byword for reliable quality and not cheap things but value for money."
Many praised the quality of the old St Michael collections: "I have some 90s tops that still have their stretch and wear so much better than anything I can buy now. What did they make it out of?"
There was lots of praise for original items still going strong: "I sell vintage and St Michael had become really popular in the last couple or years, especially the 90s stuff. Nice boxy cuts and natural fibres, and still looks fresh 30+ years later. Don't mess it up M&S."
Another said: "I bought a floor length cashmere/wool overcoat on vinted last year, vintage St Michael.
"I always think about the box pleated midi skirts my mum wore in the 80s such amazing quality."
The limited-edition M&S x Aries collection launches on August 20, with 26 pieces spanning womenswear, menswear and accessories. Prices start at £10 and go up to £150, making it an interesting option for shoppers who want a designer-inspired look without the usual luxury price tag.
The collaboration taps into the growing nostalgia for St Michael, the historic M&S label that has found a new following through vintage shopping, resale platforms and social media.
Rather than simply reproducing old designs, Aries has raided the M&S archive and given its most recognisable details a contemporary streetwear makeover.
The St Michael label is back
At the heart of the collection are reworked St Michael crests featuring the iconic angel motif, alongside Aries' signature Temple logo.
There are also references to the original Penny Bazaar, heritage crests, sporting emblems and collegiate designs.
The range mixes classic M&S staples with Aries' edgier aesthetic, including pinstripe tailoring, striped shirts, ties, tracksuits, hoodies, graphic sweatshirts, knitwear, slip dresses and cardigans.
There are also some more unexpected pieces, including a matching cardigan and brief set.
M&S x Aries collection: prices
For shoppers tempted by the collaboration, some of the pieces include:
- M&S x Aries Graphic Crew Sweatshirt - £50
- M&S x Aries Spencer Bear Graphic T-Shirt - £30
- M&S x Aries Waffle Long Sleeve Stripe Sweatshirt - £45
- M&S x Aries Silk AOP Tie - £25
- M&S x Aries Bag - £70
- M&S x Aries Socks - £10
- M&S x Aries Shrunken Crew Sweatshirt - £45
- M&S x Aries Boxer - £25
- M&S x Aries Silk Knickers - £10
- M&S x Aries Baby Tee - £25
- M&S x Aries Jacket - £90
Accessories also include statement brooches, hair clips and an oversized Spencer Bear bag charm.
One of the more eye-catching pieces is a soft green leather version of the iconic M&S carrier bag, turning a familiar piece of shopping history into a fashion accessory.
The collection will be available through M&S online and selected stores from August 20.
Why the St Michael comeback could prove popular
The collaboration arrives as shoppers increasingly seek out vintage M&S pieces, with the St Michael name becoming particularly popular among younger fashion fans.
Aries founder and creative director Sofia Prantera said she had fond memories of M&S from childhood and used personal references when working on the collection, including Spencer Bear, which she said was gifted to her by her grandmother.
The result is a collection designed to combine M&S heritage with modern streetwear, while keeping the price point more accessible than many designer collaborations.
For anyone who remembers the St Michael label, it is also a chance to get a new take on a very familiar piece of British retail history.
The M&S x Aries collection launches August 20.
What is the St Michael label?
St Michael was the much-loved own-brand label used by Marks & Spencer for more than 70 years, first appearing in 1927 before being officially introduced across the retailer's clothing ranges in 1928.
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The label became synonymous with M&S clothing, appearing on everything from dresses and knitwear to menswear and children's clothes.
But after 72 years, M&S scrapped St Michael in 2000 as part of a major attempt to turn around the retailer's fortunes and modernise its image.
Now, the vintage label is enjoying an unexpected revival, while the name has already become popular with shoppers hunting for good quality pieces online.
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