I Spent 2 Hours in Zara's Changing Rooms So You Don't Have to—These 5 Items Made It Worth It

If you were to peek inside my wardrobe, you'd find an unapologetically high Zara-to-everything-else ratio. But I'm far from alone. Ask any fashion editor, stylist or influencer where their elevated basics are from, and more often than not, Zara will be in the mix thanks to its directional pieces that slot effortlessly into a real wardrobe.

As a shopping editor, trawling countess new-in sections is part of my daily rhythm and, with Zara, that means navigating hundreds of styles to find the ones that actually matter. It’s become a bit of a personal sport—one where I can spot a dress with quiet luxury energy at 20 paces, or identify the exact pair of trousers that will end up all over Instagram by next week. And while not everything earns a place in my rotation, there’s a certain satisfaction in unearthing those under-the-radar pieces before they go viral—or worse, out of stock.

To truly navigate Zara's July offering like a pro, sometimes the only option is an in-person deep dive. That means carving out an afternoon, heading in-store, and settling into the changing room for a full-scale try-on session. It’s in those fluorescent-lit hours that I really get to grips with what’s worth the hype and what’s best left on the hanger—because while the website can be a treasure trove, it doesn’t always tell the whole story.

From finding my dream pair of jeans, to the ultimate French-coded blouse, I’ve edited out the noise to highlight the pieces that are doing something clever with proportion, fabric or finish—things that feel like they belong on a far more expensive rail. Shop below.

The Zara Items That Made My Marathon Try-on Session Worth It

1. Pretty Blouse and Jeans

Style notes: The ultimate 'jeans and a nice top' combo requires two things: the perfect standout blouse and a refined pair of jeans—here, Zara nails both and I immediately felt at home in this chic outfit.

2. Linen Co-ord

Style notes: Wearing this 100% linen monochrome set, I instantly felt more polished—expensive, even. It’s the kind of outfit that does all the work for you, no overthinking required. I was already mentally styling it two ways: with flip-flops and a raffia tote for a laid-back beach day, or with heeled mules and sculptural jewellery for an effortless evening switch-up.

3. Polka-Dot Top

Style notes: Without a doubt, the nicest tank top I’ve ever worn. If you're keen to dip a toe into the polka-dot trend without going full vintage, a tank is the ideal low-effort entry point—just enough print to make a statement, without overpowering your look.

4. Throw-On Dress

Style notes: I didn’t expect to love this dress as much as I did, but it completely won me over. The vertical stripes subtly elongated my frame, while the towelling fabric gives it that laid-back, just-stepped-off-the-sand feel—making it the perfect throw-on for beach days that turn into dinners.

5. Fluid Trousers

Style Notes: Nearly all of my friends swear by these flowing trousers, and after finally trying them, I completely understand the hype. They’re effortlessly chic, incredibly comfortable, and somehow manage to work with everything I already own. Instant staple.

Shop More Zara Bestselling Buys