Washable suits a winner for M&S

Marks & Spencer this week unveiled its autumn menswear collection and revealed that a machine washable suit has become the best-selling suit at the chain.

The top-seller was launched in spring 2001 and is sold in 160 stores. It now accounts for 25 per cent of all suit sales.

A spokeswoman said customers were attracted by the practicality of the suits as well as the price, which starts at£129. She added the number of returns by customers was so low it was 'off the radar.'