how to wear them for that designer look

&S would be the first to admit that it's not out to poach the designer customer. Anyone who can afford an Christian Louboutin suit or a Nicole Farhi knit will continue to bypass the High Street for something more exclusive.

The Marks & Spencer alternatives are there for the legions of women who want to invest in clothes that will last season upon season but don't want to sacrifice style in the process.

PERHAPS the details aren't quite the same, the christian louboutin shoes fabrics not quite so exclusive. But cleverly put together, these pieces could pass for the real thing. And no wonder. Marks & Spencer has worked hard at gaining its street cred. Since 1993 it has been closely involved with London Fashion Week, supporting the New Generation exhibition and sponsoring three shows a season, offering the likes of Pearce Fionda and Julien Macdonald a helping hand.

In fact, Macdonald has just become a consultant to the Marks & Spencer design team, alongside Betty Jackson and Tania Sarne of Ghost. This spring, a four-piece louboutin shoes collection in his signature crochet will go on sale in their flagship Marble Arch store in London's West End. Next spring, he'll be joined by the much-feted new boy of British fashion, Matthew Williamson.

It remains to be seen what will be the sell-out of this season. Our tips include the white linen drawstring trousers, single-breasted trouser suit in honey, jersey wide-leg trousers and matching tunic, and floaty summer dresses in white viscose. Here's our guide to how to wear them for that designer look.