I'm not going to lie: I like my outfits to look expensive. Give me a Miu Miu– and Prada-filled wardrobe any day. I may not have the budget for daily designer looks, but I do, however, have a great eye for stylish fashion items that look expensive but aren't. (There's a reason I'm associate shopping director.) I'm happy to tell you that after perusing, testing, and trying Zara's latest summer pieces, there is a whole host of chic and elevated pieces that could honestly pass for designer. I've lost count of the number of items I bookmarked as I scrolled through the brand's website, but I have done my best to whittle down my selection of seriously luxe-looking buys. Think elevated butter-yellow blazers, Chloé-inspired boho lace dresses, and luxe-looking leather sandals.
Take a look below, as I share my absolute favorite luxe-looking Zara finds you won't regret buying this season. If you think these affordable pieces—from dreamy dresses to elevated basics—look designer, I wouldn't blame you.
The high V-neckline makes this look so luxe.
Chic pleated pants will elevate your outfit in an instant.
Love the metallic toe rings.
A knit ivory vest oozes rich vibes.
Chloé vibes. Zara prices.
Woven and braided shoes were all over the S/S 2025 runways.
Ready for compliments?
These have a chic, vintage vibe.
You can style this designer-looking top with so many different bottoms.
How is this not designer?!
It doesn't get any chicer.
Such a gorgeous metallic detail.
The ruching! The color!
White linen tailored trousers will keep you looking polished in the summer heat.
Effortless and on-trend.
Sleek black thong sandals will go everything.
It's a butter-yellow summer.
Designer-looking frames.
I have a feeling this won't stay in stock for long.
More butter yellow, please.
Peep-toe shoes are a huge trend this season.
Powder pink is having a moment.
Wow. Just wow.
I just got this, and it looks even better in person.
Romantic, sheer pieces will be everywhere this summer.
Minimalist chic.
Simple yet striking.
For your upcoming summer soirée's.
This combination dress is dreamy.
Update your blazer collection with this hourglass linen number.
Nineties chic.
A belt that will pull together an outfit in an instant.
Turn heads in vibrant red.
-
Fashion People in NYC Are All About These 2 Chic, Timeless Prints RNPlayful prints are in.
-
10 Mini Trends Everyone Is Already Wearing This SummerAre you?
-
Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This SummerObsessed.
-
People With Cool Style Are All Wearing These 11 Dress Trends This SummerAnd it's hard to pick a favorite.
-
I Shop for a Living—30 Pieces From Zara, H&M, and Revolve That Caught My Eye for SummerPolka dot dresses, tank tops, capris, and more.
-
Boring Sandals Are So 2024—This Summer, Even Minimalists Are Playing Around With Fun FootwearBeads, hardware, and more.
-
I Have Minimal Style and Wear Refined Pieces—3 Summer Trends I'll Be WearingElevated must-haves.
-
Shopbop Has So Many New Discounted Gems—I'm Losing It Over These 27 Sale FindsSummer standouts at up to 70% off.
