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:
ZARA
Zw Collection Wide-Leg High-Waist Jeans
Such a great pair of spring/summer jeans.
ZARA
Flat Leather Ballet Flats
These are just so elegant.
H&M
Smocked Seersucker Dress
Also available in powder blue and lavender, but this neutral hue is my favourite.
ZARA
Straight-Leg Cotton Trousers
A great pair of easy-breezy summer trousers.
H&M
Oversized Utility Jacket
Utility, but make it chic.
ZARA
Zw Collection Poplin Pleated Dress
From the pleats to the sleeves, this looks three times the price tag.
ZARA
Zw Collection Check Jacket
A great way to add some print into your spring/summer wardrobe.
An easy-breezy linen shirt you'll get so much wear out of.
ZARA
Linen Trousers With Vents Zw Collection
The perfect "pretty top" to wear with jeans.
H&M
Single-Breasted Linen-Blend Blazer
A great spring workwear staple.
ZARA
Embroidered Midi Dress
Such a pretty summer dress.
ZARA
Leather Ballet Flats With Metal AppliquÉ
The comfiest ballet flats I've ever tried.
ZARA
Zw Collection Front Pleat Trousers
I can think of a million ways to style this.
ZARA
Striped Blouse With Bows
ZARA
Double-Layer Strappy Midi Dress
The perfect holiday dress.
ZARA
Contrast Binding Cardigan
The contrast piping feels very designer.
ZARA
Asymmetric Short Dress With Shoulder Pads
Wear over trousers now, or solo as the weather gets warmer.
A slightly dressier take on the classic blouse.
H&M
Super Wide High Waist Jeans
These are best-sellers for a reason.
H&M
Oversized Linen-Blend Jacket
An easy light layer for those milder spring days.
ZARA
Zw Collection Linen Blend Blouse
Pretty blouses are back for spring!
ZARA
100% Linen Straight Trousers
Linen trousers are a staple in every great warm-weather wardrobe.
H&M
Lace-Trimmed Cotton Blouse
A lace-trimmed blouse that will instantly elevate denim.
H&M
Open-Back Lace-Detail Dress
Say hello to your next spring dress.
ZARA
Zw Collection Oversize Check Trench Coat
If you're searching for a trench coat with a timeless appeal but still contemporary, look to this checked version.
ZARA
Balloon Combined Top
The pretty top to pair with jeans, tailoring, skirts and more.
ZARA
Zw Collection Mid-Waist Baggy Jeans
White jeans looks immediately polished.
ZARA
Braided Ballet Flats
It's officially time to swap out heavy boots in favour of light weight flats. This pair is my favourite of the season.
ZARA
Zw Collection Embroidered Sleeveless Top
Find this at the top of my wish list.
ZARA
Zw Collection Wide-Leg Trousers
The drape of these trousers is exquisite.
A contemporary take on the denim dress.
ZARA
Crinkle-Effect Camisole Top
Soon enough, the days won't require heavy knitwear so we can get back to pretty tops like this sleek cami style.
H&M's best-selling straight-leg jeans are so versatile.
A skirt that can easily be dressed up or down.
I want to replicate this whole look.
ZARA
Extra Fine Wool Blend Striped Top
I'm yet to meet a striped top I don't like.
H&M
Trench-Look Cotton Jacket
The trench coat continues to be a spring staple.
H&M
Lace-Detail Halterneck Top
There's something so expensive-looking about this collarless blazer.
H&M
Linen-Blend Barrel Trousers
These trousers could easily pass for designer.
H&M
Lace-Trimmed Chiffon Strappy Dress
Straight from the new collection.
H&M
Draped Drawstring-Detail Top
I own this top and get so many compliments when I wear it.