There are two stores that many of the editors on our team turn to regularly when they're looking to add a few affordable and elevated finds to their wardrobes. Yep, I'm talking about H&M and Zara. Are they go-tos of yours as well? Wonderful. I mean, I get it. Whether you're in the market for a new basic, a trendy staple, or a sleek pair of shoes, these two retailers are just bound to have a few solid options to suit your style.
With all that in mind, I decided to spend the afternoon going deep into the new-arrivals sections at both to see what gems I could find. Not surprisingly, I found a slew of standout pieces that I think could be worth it. I'm referring to everything from beautiful tailoring picks to of-the-moment denim cuts to adorable tees and tanks. Keep scrolling to check out all the picks that I think just might pique your interest.
H&M
An oversize white shirt is a modern staple.
Nice neckline.
So chic, and under $20.
A wardrobe staple.
Fresh shorts, anyone?
Easy and breezy.
Elevate any summer look.
Pretty hue.
Easy shorts.
A wonderful silhouette.
Need new flats? Here you go.
Great on its own or for layering.
A sleek ribbed dress.
Chic as a cover-up or as a night-out dress.
Beautiful sandals.
Add your favorite sandals and you're good to go.
Can't go wrong with a cropped tank.
The off-the-shoulder detail is nice.
This top feels fresh.
Such versatile sandals.
Relaxed jeans for the win.
Distressed shorts don't fail.
Zara
A lightweight blazer for the season.
Bandana tops are trending hard.
Make that statement.
That color.
Love a bold tank.
A stunning dress.
You could easily dress these sandals up or down.
Another A+ pick in pink.
Sophistication.
A playful hat to top off your summer looks.
Yes to the boxy cut.
Elevated flip-flops for the win.
One more top-notch blazer.
Next, check out more stylish options from Zara.
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8 Pieces That Are the Secret Sauce to an Incredibly Chic Summer Outfit RotationGetting ready just got so much easier.
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It's Officially a Butter-Yellow Summer—27 of the Chicest Finds at Zara, Nordstrom, and J.CrewFashion people love this color trend.
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This Nordstrom Rack Sale Has So Many Cool-Girl Essentials—These 25 Finds Are the StandoutsAn extra 20% off? Yes, please.
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The Classic Hero Piece That Fashion People Reach For All Summer LongSomething for every personal style.
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The Chicest Tops of Summer Are Hiding at Zara, and I'm Already Planning All My Outfits Around ThemFrom linen vests to halter silhouettes.
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I've Lived in NYC, L.A., and Boston—Here's Everything I Think Is Chic for SummerShop the highly curated list.
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The Perfect $16 Tank Top and More Zara Items I'm Texting Everyone I Know AboutElite finds.
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The 30 Items That Will Define Style in Summer 2025Gotta catch 'em all.
