My Friends Always Ask for Shopping Recs—30 Items From Zara, Madewell, and Free People I Suggested

Being a fashion editor comes with its share of perks, and one of the biggest is shopping expertise. Writing about and curating the best trends and shopping picks all day provides an acute insight into what pieces are worth the investment—both in terms of quality and longevity. My friends and family take full advantage of this foresight and always come to me for guidance on what items they should add to their closets, and I'm happy to oblige.
Right now, my friends are looking specifically for seasonal staples and holiday party looks at reasonable price points, so I directed them towards Zara, Madewell, and Free People. From cozy cashmere to timeless suede to satin pumps and sequin minidresses, these three retailers have winter wardrobe essentials covered—in utterly chic ways might I add. Below are the 30 best shopping picks from Zara, Madewell, and Free People (in my humble opinion).
ZARA
MADEWELL
FREE PEOPLE

-
The Chicest Tops of Summer Are Hiding at Zara, and I'm Already Planning All My Outfits Around Them
From linen vests to halter silhouettes.
-
My Mom Wants to Start Shopping at Madewell—These Are the Sale Dresses and Sandals I Sent Her
Discounted through June 15.
-
The Perfect $16 Tank Top and More Zara Items I'm Texting Everyone I Know About
Elite finds.
-
Haven't Been to Madewell Lately? 36 Summer Clothing Styles I'd Snatch Up ASAP
Hurry—these pieces are bound to sell out.
-
The Easy Two-Piece Outfit Combo You Have to Copy If You Want to Look Rich This Summer
From Monaco to Miami.
-
The 30 Items That Will Define Style in Summer 2025
Gotta catch 'em all.
-
Linen Pants! Full Skirts! Long Shorts! Zara Has Every Single Chic Bottoms Trend—40 Picks That Are Worth Your Attention
Good luck picking just one.
-
I Spent Hours Searching for the Chicest Summer Minidresses—These 44 From Revolve, Zara, and Nordstrom Have My Full Attention
From $50 to $350.