Fashion and tradition: how John Smedley is innovating in a tough market

In the final article in a series on high-end British manufacturing we look at a clothing brand that dates to the 18th century but is increasingly on-trend

• Making jeans again: the Hiut Denim factory in Cardigan

• Rolls-Royce rides high on craze for customisation

• Luxury leather: from wallets to cigar cases

Tina is wielding a large pair of scissors with authority, slicing with immense skill and precision.

With 38 years of experience, she is an important member of the 230-strong manufacturing team producing fine knitwear for the John Smedley brand. Using a chalk, a semi-circular guide and a sharp pair of scissors, she cuts necklines in the knitted garments ready for the final trim to be attached.

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Jess Cartner-Morley’s November style essentials: fancy flats, sexy knits and a Christmassy pigeon

Whether it’s a two-in-one coat or a truly delicious handbag, add some fun to getting dressed during the cold, dark months with our expert’s favourites

• The best women’s shoes and boots for autumn

The clocks have gone back. The mornings are cold and the evenings are dark. The world seems to be doing its level best to discourage any fashion ambition beyond the need to stay alive and warm enough to function.

But clothes – even in winter – are not just about staying alive. They are about staying alive alive. Alive inside. So this month’s edit is about finding the fun in getting dressed when the weather is trying to discourage you. There is a pink jumper that manages to be both cosy and, well, slutty; a £16 henley that looks considerably more expensive than it is; and a skirt I have been stalking since the summer and can finally report back on. There are also ballet pumps with exactly the right amount of grownup elegance, a sweatshirt that makes a persuasive case for elevating the everyday, and a necklace to bring a bit of sparkle back to the proceedings.

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A-listers and AI stylists: how high-street brands are staging a fashion comeback

Gap, M&S, Topshop and more are taking a leaf from luxury label playbooks to satisfy savvier generation of shoppers

High street brands that boomed in the noughties before the squeeze of both sustainably minded consumers and the rise of ultra-cheap online labels are staging a comeback.

This time, rather than focusing solely on trend-led affordable designs, the names familiar to any shopper are courting luxury fashion, A-list collaborations and enhanced services in an attempt to engage consumers.

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Why M&S director Kathryn Turner is the ultimate ‘Gay Halloween’ costume idea

Product development boss at Marks & Spencer inspires niche outfits after unexpected success on social media

She is not the most likely viral star. But with 310,000 followers on TikTok and 270,000 on Instagram, Marks & Spencer Food’s director of product development, Kathryn Turner, has suddenly become one of the year’s big hits on social media. Her videos take the viewer with her as she goes in-store to look at new dessert launches, including its banana, caramel and pecan pudding, or taste test its latest products, such as its cherry and chocolate cookies.

Turner is part of Marks & Spencer’s wider social media strategy implemented in 2020 as a way of attracting younger shoppers. Instead of using traditional influencers, M&S now champions 100 of its own employees on TikTok.

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Dripping with style: what fashion insiders wear in the rain – plus we pick the best raincoats and accessories

Top tips on how to stay dry and stylish from those who know how. Plus this autumn’s best rain gear, from practical jackets to puddle-proof boots

Associate fashion editor for the Guardian

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