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

Zara H&M new in — (Image credit: Who What Wear UK)

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

Wool-Blend Tie-Detail Jacket

The perfect autumn jacket.

H&M

Oversized Shirt

Just add balloon trousers and a kitten-heel for a fashion-girl approved autumn ensemble.

ZARA

100% Leather Midi Skirt

This is so expensive-looking.

ZARA

Z1975 Contrast-Topstitch Denim Jacket

Funnel-neck jackets are very cool-girl coded.

H&M

Barrel Regular Waist Jeans

This is already selling fast.

ZARA

Wool Blend Buttoned Cardigan

Mark my words: this will be out of stock by September.

ZARA

Wide-Leg Darted Trousers With Belt

A cool take on tailoring.

H&M

Oversized Mohair-Blend Jumper

This sells out every single year.

H&M

Tailored Barrel Trousers

This whole look is a 10/10.

H&M

Oversized Wool Coat

Perfect for when the temparatures start to dip.

ZARA

Patent-Effect Loafers

When the time comes to swap out your summer sandals, you'll want to reach for a pair of trusty loafers. This one looks so expensive.

ZARA

Double Knit Jumper

Breton is incredibly French-coded.

H&M

Double-Breasted Trench Coat

Trench coat season is just around the corner.

H&M

Leather Ballet Flats

Leather ballet flats for under £50? Yes please.

H&M

Shoulder Bag

I genuinely did a double take when I saw this top, it looks so premium.

H&M

Tailored Twill Trousers

The perfect tailored trousers.

ZARA

Double-Breasted Trench Jacket With Drawstrings

The first step to move your wardrobe into autumn could come by investing in a cropped trench.

ZARA

Z1975 High-Waist Crossover Wide-Leg Jeans

These Zara jeans have become my most worn pair.

H&M

Shirt

This burgundy shade immediately caught my eye.

ZARA

Z1975 High-Waist Regular Long-Length Jeans

The cut of these jeans is just so good.

H&M

Fine-Knit Cardigan

It's almost time to layer up! And this cardigan has such a sweet neckline.

H&M

Wrap-Detail Tailored Trousers

The kind of trousers that will induce compliments.

H&M

Mary Jane Ballet Flats

I have a similar pair and wear them at least three times a week with jeans, tailoring and dresses.

ZARA

High Collar Bomber Jacket - Red - Xs

This also comes in white and black, but I'm so drawn to this vibrant red.

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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.