Marks & Spencer
Britain's high-street institution. For decades its clothing carried the 'St Michael' house brand — the single sharpest vintage marker.
- Origin
- England
- Founded
- 1884
- Category
- Designer & Casual
- Documented eras
- 3
How Marks & Spencer labels evolved over time. Match the markers below against the tag in hand to place a garment in its era.
1980–1989
'St Michael' Wool Tags
Tags prominently read 'St Michael from Marks & Spencer', often with 'Pure New Wool' — rectangular, usually white with grey or green text.
- Features “St Michael from Marks & Spencer” branding prominently.
- Tags often include “Pure New Wool” indicating the material.
- Tags are rectangular and typically white with grey or green text.
- Some tags include additional details like size indicators.
How to spot it
'St Michael from Marks & Spencer' wording.
Value signal
Solid; 'St Michael' knitwear has a steady following.
1990–1999
Minimalist 'St Michael' Tags
Continued 'St Michael from Marks & Spencer' branding on minimalist rectangular tags with bold serif lettering, size often on a separate tag.
- Continues the “St Michael from Marks & Spencer” branding.
- Rectangular tags with a minimalist design.
- Uses bold serif lettering for the brand name.
- Additional tags may indicate the size separately.
How to spot it
'St Michael' branding on a minimalist tag.
Value signal
Common; value tracks the garment.
2000–2009
Late 'St Michael' Fit Tags
A modernised look still carrying 'St Michael', often with fit indicators like 'Petite Fit', usually white grounds with grey text — the 'St Michael' name was retired around 2000, so these are its last gasp.
- Modernized look while retaining the “St Michael from Marks & Spencer” branding.
- Tags often include “Petite Fit” or other specific fit indicators.
- Uses a variety of colors, but often sticks to white backgrounds with grey text.
- Size indicators are still commonly included separately from the main tag.
How to spot it
Late 'St Michael' tags, often with fit wording.
Value signal
Modern; the 'St Michael' name is the main interest point.