The Best Zara and H&M Fashion Finds According to an Editor

(Image credit: Zara. H&M)

last updated 7 August 2025

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 appeasing 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:

ZARA

Romantic Sleeveless Top

This will pair well with shorts, skirts or jeans.

H&M

Wide Linen-Blend Trousers

Easy pull-on trousers are a summer essential.

ZARA

Zw Collection Polka Dot Midi Dress

My love for polka dots is not going away anytime soon—and this dress could easily be 3x its price tag.

H&M

Leather Flip-Flops

For a little pop of colour.

ZARA

Pleated Trousers

Elegant, timeless and super easy to style.

H&M

Maxi Jersey Dress

The flowy dress of dreams.

ZARA

City Bag

This looks way pricier than its £30 price tag.

ZARA

Split Suede Topstitched Loafers

The suede finish makes these feel incredibly elegant.

ZARA

Midi Dress With Contrast Piping

The contrast-piping detail on this top makes it look so much more expensive.

H&M

Wide Ultra High Jeans

Now is the time to bring out your dark-wash denim.

H&M

Long Waistcoat

Waistcoats continue to be the top of choice for fashion people across Europe.

H&M

Collarless Blazer

I'll never get over waisted blazers.

ZARA

Zw Collection Linen Balloon Trousers

Not jeans, not trousers—get the best of both worlds with chic elevated style.

H&M

Sleeveless Maxi Dress

A dress of minimalist dreams, the piping detail immediately elevates this design.

ZARA

Safari Linen Blend Shirt

I particularly enjoy the cinched-in waist for a romantic twist on the classic linen shirt.

H&M

Leather Slingbacks

Add texture to your look with these olive green snakeskin sling-backs.

ZARA

100% Linen Dress Zw Collection

A dress I'll wear on repeat until early autumn.

H&M

Oval Sunglasses

You don't have to splash out loads on expensive-looking sunglasses.

ZARA

Linen Blend Tie Blouse

A very romantic style that you can pair with linen trousers, broderie shorts or even a lace-trim skirt.

H&M

Pleated Denim Skirt

Elevate your new season wardrobe with H&M's chic denim pleated skirt.

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Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s Deputy Editor and has over fourteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and authoritative content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, talent interviews self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their search and keyword planning, works closely with the fashion and beauty team on strategy and continues to pen many of her own articles. Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine's contributed to publications including Grazia, InStyle Marie Claire, Elle and Look, amongst others.