Yes, thermals can look chic – I live in these M&S winter warmers year after year

Maisie Bovingdon

Published March 21, 2025 4:00pm

Model wears white/cream M&S Heatgen Medium Thermal Scoop Neck Top — If you’re still feeling the cold, or heading somewhere where you’ll need to layer up – these ones from Marks and Spencer are a life saver! (Picture: Metro/M&S)

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Thermals get a bad reputation, as they are often stereotyped as being unfashionable, resemble long johns like Grandpa Joe in Willy Wonka, or remind us of something our parents used to force us in as a child.

But, the insulating layer has come a long way since then, so much so I proudly wear mine so they are fully visible, which sounds crazy, but stay with me. Thermals from M&S actually look like stylish basic long sleeve tops, thermals and leggings from H&M and Skims, but they are warmer and much more durable.

I first dabbled in M&S Heatgen thermals circa 2016 on a New Year’s trip to New York. Thick snow hit so hard we couldn’t fly home, and despite waiting hours for the ball drop in Times Square I didn’t catch pneumonia in the sub-zero temperatures, which I solely put down to M&S’ thermals.

I own several pairs of M&S’ thermals, the leggings, tights, scoop neck long sleeve tops, mock neck top, turtle neck – the lot. The Heatgen thermals offer different insulation, including light, medium and maximum, and I mostly own the latter two because I feel the cold.

Forced to recommend one style in particular it would be the Long Sleeve Scoop Neck, as this can be layered underneath knitwear, other sweatshirts, but also worn on its own when the weather is cold and fresh, yet mild enough you don’t need excessive layers.

M&S Heatgen Medium Thermal Scoop Neck Top

The M&S Heatgen range is a standout collection that features insulating basic layering staples. The outer is a smooth texture, while the inner layer is an ultra-soft brushed fabric to keep you warm. This design offers medium insulation, but it is also available in maximum insulation too. Available in UK dress sizes 6 to 22, as well as 10 colourways to pair with any outfit.

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The Long Sleeve Scoop Neck can be worn under a jumper, paired with an unbuttoned blazer or shacket, even styled on its own with jeans, smart trousers, or tracksuit bottoms, it’s super versatile.

The fabric also offers the necessary coverage I look for in a top, as I find other brands can be transparent.

What I love about the winter warmers is they are ultra soft, insulating (of course), but they are breathable and sweat-wicking. On days I have overdone the layers for a Sunday stroll I am not left feeling sweaty and damp, which then leaves me feeling cold.

The scoop neck design is super flattering for all sizes – and will keep you warm in the cold spell. (Picture: Metro/M&S)

M&S’ Heatgen fabric is brushed on the inside, which provides the insulation and the gentle feel on the skin. The long sleeve top is lightweight, and not too thick you can’t layer other garments on top. Plus, it has stretch to fit the body and stay put – instead of rising up to expose your belly.

The Long Sleeve Scoop Neck is available in 10 colours, including cream, black, brown, poppy red and many more.

It is also available in sizes 6 to 22, but stock is selling out fast. I am stocking up, and strongly recommend you do too as you will call on these warm layers year after year.