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‘Very flattering’ M&S animal print dress is ideal for autumn weddings
Sandy Verma | August 14, 2026 11:25 PM CST

If there’s one trend that never goes out of style, it’s animal print. Whether we’re channeling ‘Mob Wife’ energy, Carrie Bradshaw from SATC, or Scary Spice (aka Mel B), the likes of leopard print never fails to elevate an outfit and can look unbelievably chic.

So it’s no wonder that in recent years, shoppers have been turning to this print for a guaranteed head turner when it comes to snapping up a dress for weddings. And we’ve spotted a newly launched dress from Marks and Spencer that’s ideal for autumnal nuptials that shoppers say is ‘very flattering and feels fun to wear’.

The Animal Print Mesh Draped Midi Waisted Dress, £45, comes in sizes eight to 24 (six and 22 are OOS) and caters for a range of heights as it’s also available in petite, regular and tall. The dress looks incredibly flattering on, and this is no doubt thanks to its mesh fabric, waist-cinching ruching, and print pattern that’s perfect for drawing attention away from any lumps and bumps.

Its bodice is essentially sleeveless, with straps that cover the shoulders and give the impression of subtle cap sleeves, making it great for those muggier September days. Meanwhile, its boat neckline is sophisticated and classy and calls for a dainty necklace.

The ruching on the drop waist has a flattering effect that slims the figure, and the flowing skirt has a hanky hemline that adds interest to the frock. It’s no wonder it’s already received a glowing 4.8-star rating.

With colder weather on the horizon, we’d understand if something with a bit more arm coverage is preferred. Never Fully Dressed often has a range of wedding guest options, and this Star Deer Aria Mesh Dress perfectly marries deer print with florals and stars to create a striking look.

It has sheer long flared sleeves and a simple silhouette that floats down the body. Costing £99, it’s made from recycled polyester and elastane and includes a slip dress underneath.

For lovers of leopard print, Roman’s Leopard Mesh Maxi Stretch Dress, now £25 from £50, is a great alternative for anyone wanting to keep their arms covered for any reason. With a midi length, its mesh makeup is chic and classy, and it’s ‘crafted from a comfortable mesh stretch fabric that hugs your curves perfectly’.

Although Marks and Spencer’s Animal Print Mesh Draped Midi Waisted Dress has accrued some serious compliments from shoppers of all ages, one of whom said: “Love this dress..very flattering and feels fun to wear. Have purchased it for an autumn wedding, but it could easily be dressed down, too. Sized up and petite length perfect for 5ft.”

Another remarked: “Drapes beautifully and the petite is a perfect length for 5’1.” While they did warn how it was ‘a small fit so best to size up’, they concluded: “Great transitional piece into autumn. This is a winner.”

Someone else added: “Love this dress. It fits so well. The ruched waist adds to it.”

The only downside one shopper shared was that it ‘runs small across the bust’. So keep this in mind. Although they weren’t ready to give up and said: “The dress was lovely, so I will try a bigger size.”

For the most part, however, shoppers were in love with the dress and echoed this positive review, which read: “Just a beautiful fitting dress. I took the petite and upped a size. Love it. Material is fabulous, very flattering.”

Shop the M&S Animal Print Mesh Draped Midi Waisted Dress here.


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