Marks and Spencer’s loyal customers have been facing frustration ever since the retailer suspended its online orders over two weeks ago following a significant cyberattack. The disruption began in April, when unusual activity interfered with click-and-collect services and contactless payments in stores. In response, M&S halted all online orders during the Easter weekend, a shutdown that remains in place as they work to resolve what is understood to be a ransomware attack.
Among the affected shoppers is Shawna Healey, a reviews writer for the Manchester Evening News, who, despite missing her usual M&S shopping experience, took the opportunity to explore alternatives elsewhere. During her search, she uncovered a standout summer dress that checked all her boxes without breaking the bank.
Her find? The Daisy Print Supersoft Midi Dress from Simply Be, priced attractively at just £30. Shawna enthuses about the dress’s “super cute” aesthetic, highlighting its midi length, floral pattern, and flattering wrap-front design. Made from 95% polyester and 5% elastane, the fabric offers a stretchy, comfortable fit suitable for all-day wear.
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This versatile dress comes in sizes 10 to 32 and pairs effortlessly with sandals for a breezy summer look. Its classic black background and delicate daisy print also transition well into the cooler months—layered under a jacket and matched with chunky boots, it can easily move from summer to autumn or winter wardrobes.
The midi cut provides ample coverage while preventing any chance of tripping, and the V-neckline adds a tasteful touch of elegance without being overly revealing—qualities Shawna finds both flattering and functional.
Though the dress is yet to receive reviews on the Simply Be website, Shawna’s glowing endorsement serves as a strong recommendation.
For those seeking more options while M&S works through its online challenges, the high street offers plenty of choices. Next features the Floral Leaf Sleeveless Textured Jersey Dropwaist Maxi Dress at £34 and the Black Blurred Ditsy Twist Collar Dress for £39. Additionally, Roman is offering a 10% discount across its full dress range with the code DREAM. This deal brings the Floral Print Midi Stretch Dress down to £34.20 from £38, and the Royal Blue Contrast Floral Print Shirt Dress to £37.80 from £42—affordable alternatives to keep your wardrobe fresh despite the M&S outage.