A Fashion Editor Picks The Best New In At Zara
The Handbook’s Contributing Fashion & Lifestyle Editor, Astrid Carter, took to the Zara shop floor (and their horrifically lit changing rooms, apologies) to find the best new pieces the high street behemoth has for spring. From billowy dresses to cute zebra print, here’s what she found.
If there is one high street store tempting me to part with my hard-earned cash this week, it’s Zara. The Spanish behemoth is in full boho, free-spirited summer mode right now, bringing fluid fabrics, pastel hues, ’70s-inspired denim, and California girl cool to the table. I am always mindful when shopping on the high street that I’m not just buying something for the sake of newness, but that it really fits my aesthetic and that I’ll wear it for years to come. Zara’s current spring drops very much feel a bit of me – from prairie-style dresses (essentially nighties to wear in the day) to playful knits and 1970s-esque denim. If your look is more structured or polished you may want to skip this one, but if you’re up for a bit of fun, colour and print, scroll on.
First up, this lace-trimmed midi dress gave Dôen vibes for a fraction of the price. It would be perfect on the beach to throw over a bikini, but the fabric is thick enough to wear in the city too – bring on another London heatwave – when I would style it with leather tie-ankle sandals and an array of beaded necklaces.
Size up one or two sizes from your usual to get a really billowy silhouette.
Lace Midi Dress | £39.99
Dôen vibes for a fraction of the price.
If you’re a fan of a cutesy, Ganni-esque knit, this Argyle knit is a top buy. I love the pale blue and daffodil yellow colourway for spring, but it will take you through to the chillier months layered over a pastel-coloured shirt. I styled it with a midi pleated skirt – a huge trend this season – which felt really weighty and expensive for the high street.
Diamond Knit Waistcoat Top | £29.99
Flared Midi Skirt | £59.99
Fashion editors have waxed lyrical on the practicalities and timeless appeal of a classic white shirt, but I’m here to state the case for a buttery pale yellow version. I think it adds a bit more warmth to a look whilst still being hugely practical, and I can’t get enough of it paired against inky blue denim.
Long Shirt | £29.99
High-Waist Palazzo Jeans | £29.99
Waistcoats are very much still having a moment, and I love this terracotta-hued duo. I’ve layered it over that lemon shirt again (see, I said it was versatile), but if you love that summer suit, Frankie Shop vibe, I would size up one or two sizes for a roomier fit.
Wear layered over a shirt or alone and sized up for a Frankie Shop vibe.
Tailored Linen Blend Wasitcoat |£29.99
Long Shirt | £29.99
These court shoes are a great find if you’re a leopard print girlie. Style with everything from wide-leg white denim to black barrel jeans or a chic smoking suit – very Yves Saint Laurent.
Animal Print Slingback Shoes | £39.99
Zara does this fine knit in many colourways, but I love it in the cute zebra print. It’s super soft and has a slight back-wing shape that makes it really flattering. Plus, it’s an absolute steal at £22.99.
Fine Knit Sweater | £22.99
If you’re after a boho accessory this season, Zara is the one.
Zara’s accessories are a standout at the moment and really tick the boxes if you’re aesthetic feels a bit boho and free-spirited for summer. From a cute beaded tote that will definitely be coming to Ibiza with me to a beaded bag ideal for destination weddings and a busy charm necklace that will steal the show of your whole look.
Shop Astrid’s Zara edit…
The products on this page have been selected by our editorial team, however, The Handbook may make a small commission on some products purchased through affiliate links.
