Whenever I'm in the mood to treat myself to something new—something affordable to scratch the itch but still make all my existing outfits feel fresher—I always head directly to two places: H&M and Zara. Both retailers have nuanced and often elevated takes on the trends and appealing price tags, so I don't think I need to go into detail as to why I find them so appealing. However, just because I get the urge to shop doesn't mean I do so frivolously or without consideration.
Sure, there are pretty pieces in every H&M and Zara category, but that makes their respective websites a bit of a trap where appearances can easily lull you. However, when I shop H&M and Zara, I do so with as discerning an eye as possible, seeking out the pieces that go beyond the current season and that genuinely fit with my aesthetic. While everyone has their own personal style, I do believe I've managed to curate an edit of the best Zara and H&M fashion items that won't date for anyone. Take a look below, and hopefully, you'll find something you love.
Shop My Zara and H&M Wish List:
H&M
Broderie Anglaise Cotton Top
Such a pretty summer top!
H&M
Broderie Anglaise Cotton Shorts
Don't forget the matching shorts.
ZARA
Zw Collection Linen Shirt Dress
The best thing to wear to the office during a heatwave.
ZARA
Zw Collection Mid-Waist Denim Bermuda Shorts
Denim Bermuda shorts are trending, and Zara's style is at the top of my list.
H&M
Picot-Trimmed Cotton Dress
ZARA
Rustic Cotton T-Shirt
Throw over a bikini or tuck into denim.
ZARA
Zw Collection 100% Linen Shirt
A bold yet chic way to add colour to your summer wardrobe.
H&M
Lace-Inset Cotton Skirt
It's cotton skirt season!
ZARA
Zw Collection 100% Linen Pleated Trousers
Say hello to the perfect summer work trousers.
ZARA
Zw Collection Tunic Dress With Belt
A timeless dress you'll reach for constantly.
ZARA
Zw Collection Striped Sarouel Trousers
H&M
Broderie Anglaise Strappy Top
Pair with jeans, shorts, linens and plenty more.
ZARA
Braided Belt Chino Trousers
The sophisticated trousers you'll call upon throughout the year.
ZARA
Halter Knit Midi Dress
This elegant dress is already in my basket.
A sleek tote bag with plenty of space.
H&M
Linen-Blend Bermuda Shorts
Every stylish person is reaching for long shorts right now.
H&M
Smocked Seersucker Dress
H&M
Flounced Tie-Front Blouse
ZARA
Z1975 Mid-Waist Barrel Jeans
The perfect jeans you can wear from now until early autumn.
H&M
Smocked Bandeau Dress
H&M
Lace-Inset Cotton Dress
Such an easy summer dress.
ZARA
Sarouel Trousers With Linen and Bows
An easy off-duty linen trouser you'll wear every summer.
H&M
Crinkled Tiered Skirt
This will instantly elevate an outfit.
A sleek office top you can pair with linen and jeans.
ZARA
Check Linen Blend Midi Dress
The perfect way to add pattern to your wardrobe.
ZARA
Linen Blend Wrap Jacket
Great for cooler evenings.
ZARA
Romantic Ruffle Shirt
Say hello to your next summer blouse.
H&M
Belted Halterneck Dress
Such a great shirt you'll get so much wear out of.
ZARA
Top With Gathering and Cutwork Embroidery
This blouse has already sold out once! Move fast if you're interested.
ZARA
Cutwork Embroidery Midi Skirt
A pretty skirt with gorgeous embroidered details.
H&M
Asymmetric Twist-Detail Dress
The twist detail and cream hue make this feel so expensive.
ZARA
100% Linen Trousers With Vents Zw Collection
The perfect linen trousers.
ZARA
Zw Collection Embroidered Linen Blend Shirt
So Scandi-inspired, the embroidered detail adds a subtle edge to this classic top.
ZARA
Printed Polka Dot Blouse
Polka-dot blouses are trending right now.
H&M
A-Line Skirt With Hip Scarf
The scarf detail makes this feel so cool.
H&M
Paper Bag Bermuda Shorts
Such a cool take on the classic Bermuda shorts.
ZARA
Flat Sandals With Metal Detail
Mark my words, this pair will make any outfit instantly more polished.
ZARA
Zw Collection Balloon Trousers With Linen Blend
I genuinely thought this was a designer piece.
This pair comes in so many sleek shades—this is my personal favourite.
H&M
Modal-Blend Barrel Trousers
These are best-sellers for a reason.
H&M
Halterneck Satin Dress
ZARA
100% Linen Straight Trousers
Linen trousers are a staple in every great warm-weather wardrobe.
ZARA
Zw Collection Embroidered Linen Blend Shorts
Just add the matching blouse for the perfect summer set.
H&M
Linen-Blend Strappy Dress
Linen dresses are a must in this heatwave.
ZARA
Extra Fine Wool Blend Striped Top
I'm yet to meet a striped top I don't like.
Style with jeans, tailoring, dresses and plenty more.