I Love Zara, But These 6 Other Brands Are Just as Good Right Now

When shopping on a high-street budget, it's all too easy to fall for the trend-smashing charms and regular arrivals at Zara. After all, we're only human. The Spanish superbrand works fast and efficiently and never appears to miss a beat when it comes to the items we want in our wardrobes at any given moment. In many instances, Zara can be credited with setting retail trends that other affordable stores follow. (Remember when every brand scrambled to produce a loose-fitting polka-dot midi when that dress took off a couple of years ago?) Right now, the store's outerwear looks strong, and we keep spotting designer-looking pieces on the new-in page. But there are other shops that provide the same level of inspiration and excitement.

If you want to be truly on top of your consumption, then we'll always be here to chart the top trends you can buy second-hand. In fact, we're pretty obsessed with hunting down affordable vintage items. If, however, you aren't a wiz in the thrifting department, there are some other affordable, agenda-setting stores with pieces just as good as Zara's. From the London-label to know to Scandi brands that have become high-street stars, keep scrolling to see and shop the other labels on top of their game.

1. MANGO

Style Notes: As we brace for the coldest months of the year, I'm particularly taken with Mango's layering pieces. And its outerwear is top tier on the high street right now––trust me.

Shop Mango:

2. & OTHER STORIES

Style Notes: When it comes to tracking down more whimsical, ultra-cute pieces on the high street, I'll always recommend & Other Stories. If you're after glossy boots, brilliants knits and premium leather pieces in the shade of the season, this is the Scandi store that will provide.

Shop & Other Stories:

3. COS

Style Notes: Another beloved Scandi high street brand, COS has earned a place in our fashion hearts for its sleek, minimalist designs that often boast an unexpected twist. This should be your go-to for beautifully tailored pieces with a high street price-tag.

Shop COS:

4. ALIGNE

Style Notes: London-born brand Aligne has fast become one of the most-loved brands by fashion editors and influencers alike. So much so, items tend to sell out, fast. We've already spotted this reversible trench during CPHFW and fashion month––no doubt it'll be the cinched waist knit that'll be the next hero item as soon as winter hits.

Shop Aligne:

5. H&M

Style Notes: Everyone knows H&M on the high street, but let me tell you, its autumn collection is one of the best yet. The Swedish brand has the power to be able to trick people into thinking you're wearing more expensive items than you actually are. Need further proof? Just look at Liv in these sleek tailored trousers.

Shop H&M:

6. ARKET

Style Notes: Though it's no longer the under-the-radar brand it once was, the beauty of Arket is that its stores don't dominate the high streets of every town. Sure, it's a little annoying if you don't live near one, but it's worth the trip to walk away with sleek, tailored clothing that no one else has. Of course, you can order online, which we do more often than we'd care to admit.

Shop Arket: