If you’re known in your various circles for the embarrassing number of Zara orders you place every month, you’re in good company. It’s understandable given the fast fashion retailer’s penchant for producing chic everything: perfect pants, sparkling handbags, slinky tops, and on-trend pieces inspired by the runway. (And that’s not even counting the Zara home collection.)
There’s never a dearth of fun things to add to your wardrobe, as you’ll see by these 10 Zara picks — all priced at under $100.
Fun spring/summer style from Zara
Zara’s 2023 SS collection is vibrant, racy, and textured. You’ll find metallics, oversized ruffles, fringe, embroidery, and woven elements. And the silhouettes are relaxed without being shapeless. Long vests are cinched in with belts and wide legged pants are paired with crop tops, demonstrating balance in an over-the-top kind of way.
If your style leans towards modest, some of Zara’s pieces can be intimidating. The tiny tops and slinky slip dresses are examples. As is common among fast fashion players, the clothes do favor the young and thin. Sadly, Zara doesn’t have plus-size options.
Still, with an open mind, you can find more wearable pieces at Zara (as long as you fall within the S to XXL size category, of course). Read on for a look at 10 such garments, all priced under $100.
Best Zara picks now
1. Cropped jeans
The cropped, frayed hem jean is a three-season workhorse. Wear them with a tank or t-shirt and sandals when it’s hot, then throw on a thick sweater when it’s cold. You can anchor these jeans with sandals, sneakers, chunky loafers, or your favorite mules.
This pair, priced at $50, delivers style with the smallest of details. The creased and frayed ankle hemline adds interest, while the faded wash provides a softer, low-maintenance vibe.
2. Eyelet midi skirt
Wear this eyelet midi skirt for city sightseeing, running errands, or brunching with your gal pals. Because this piece has a fuller shape, you’ll want to pair it with a form-fitting top. A short-sleeved sweater would be a good choice, or a longer crop top. Another option is to combine the skirt with a sleek, tucked-in t-shirt and add a belt over the top to define your waistline.
Also, the skirt is lined so you don’t have to worry about inadvertently showing too much on a sunny day.
3. Cargo skirt
Cargo pants are having a moment this season, so it only makes sense cargo skirts would be trending, too. This piece is for the lady who’d rather wear a skirt than jeans, even on her casual days.
The sleek, straight shape also allows you to wear a fuller top. A floating blouse, surplice top, or a knotted t-shirt can easily team with this cargo skirt. Anchor the outfit with flip-flops, sandals, or chunky sneakers.
4. High-waisted culottes
These high-waisted, olive-green culottes may be just the ticket for date night. They’re slinky, thanks to a polyester and viscose blend. And they’re flattering with that high waist and wide leg.
The only drawback is that you’ll have to be confident about your tummy area to wear these. The lightweight fabric and high waist could make you feel like your stomach’s on display. And although no one cares about this as much as you do, you don’t want to wear a piece that makes you feel self-conscious.
As with the A-line midi skirt above, you’ll want to pair these bottoms with a tighter top for balance. A bodysuit would be a great choice, since that won’t bunch beneath the waistline.
5. Long shorts
These are shorts for the fashionista who doesn’t like shorts. A full knee-length, these shorts are versatile and relaxed. They do have a masculine vibe, which may be a pro or con depending on your personal style. (The way I see it, if guys can wear shorts that extend midcalf, stylish ladies can wear knee-length shorts.)
Pair these shorts with your favorite t-shirt or tank top, sandals, and a pretty bracelet.
6. T-shirt
Speaking of your favorite t-shirt, this one could be a contender. The rich red hue combined with a round neckline and the perfect short sleeve make this a stylish upgrade of the standard cotton t.
The length of this top is also perfect for your high-waisted bottoms. As long as you don’t have a very long torso, the hemline should reach the top of any high-waisted pant or skirt.
7. Metallic sweater top
Add pizzazz to your casual wardrobe with this metallic knit tank. The piece is remarkably versatile. Pair it with jeans and loafers for a chic, off-duty look. Or wear it under a blazer to flash your style chops at work. You could also team it with a flowy, wide-legged black pant and heels to turn heads in the evening.
8. Wrinkle top
Here’s an upgraded button-down that — bonus — requires no ironing. It’s brilliant, really. Why not make wrinkles intentional?
Wear this top over jeans, shorts, skirts, you name it. Layered under a crisp blazer, it’ll send the message to your coworkers that you’re not all business.
9. Tunic dress
Make a summer statement in this long, knit tunic. The color does the work for you, so there’s need to add on accessories beyond stud earrings and lip gloss. You can add a belt to change up the look or bring definition to the waistline. But mostly, you’ll slip into this dress, put your hair back in your go-to updo, step into your sandals and head out the door.
10. Initial tote
This fabric mini tote bag can be your go-to for sunblock and sunnies on your beach days. Or, use it as your daily handbag. The neutral palette means it goes with everything in your casual rotation. It also includes a crossbody strap so you can go hands-free.
FAQs about shopping Zara
How often does Zara release new collections?
Zara is known for its fast-fashion model and typically releases new collections quite frequently. They introduce new styles every few weeks, allowing customers to find new and trendy clothing options throughout the year.
What is Zara’s return policy?
You can return your items in their original condition to a Zara store for free. If you want to return your item by mail via a delivery point, you can get a shipping label from Zara, but your refund will deduct $3.95 for shipping.
How does Zara’s sizing work?
Zara is a global brand, and their sizing can sometimes seem inconsistent. It’s always best to check their online size guides for specific measurements for each garment type. Some customers find that they need to size up or down depending on the specific item. Note that Zara does not have plus, tall, or petite sizes.
Is Zara’s clothing sustainably made?
Zara’s parent company, Inditex, has committed to several sustainability goals, such as sourcing 100% sustainable cotton, linen, and polyester by 2025. But generally, no, Zara’s fast-fashion business model is not sustainable.
What kind of clothing does Zara sell?
Zara offers a wide range of clothing options for men, women, and children. Their offerings include trendy clothes, business casual, formal wear, and basic styles, as well as accessories, shoes, and perfumes.
