“I Tried On Every Zara Jacket In-Store – These Are The Ones I Rate”
The Handbook’s Contributing Fashion & Lifestyle Editor, Astrid Carter, headed in-store to high street favourite Zara to personally try on all the new-season jackets and coats – we know, doing god’s work. From the on-trend high-neck suede bomber to the drama of faux fur, and the classic silhouettes you’ll return to year after year, here are the picks she genuinely rates.
This shape has become a bit of a Zara staple after going viral in the summer in a silky fabric – I believe they have also done a suede one and various shades. This, however, is in a leather-effect – emphasises very much on the “effect”. It’s a bit of a marmite piece thanks to the very ’80s batwing sleeve, but I kind of love it in a high-street-does-Marant type of way. I’d keep the look simple with straight-leg jeans and a square-toe boot.
While suede – albeit faux – might not be the most practical winter jacket, this one does come with a hood – sturdy enough for a drizzle, but definitely ditch it before a full-on downpour. I love the high-neck and olive hue, both everywhere right now. Additionally, for the price point, it features some great detailing, such as a flattering drawstring waist. Perfect with baggy jeans and chunky trainers, come the weekend.
If your life lacks grubby commutes and snack-wielding small children, this could be your high street winter coat hero. Its quality is genuinely superb for the price – if you can look past its unashamed impracticality. It would be great over a cream tailored suit or silk skirt in the evening, and the detachable scarf adds a smidge more versatility.
Zara is leaning heavily into reversible coats, and while the gimmick – and the lack of a proper lining – definitely compromises on quality, it does offer more styling power. This one brings some serious drama on one side with almost floor-length black faux fur (depending on your height), and a more polished faux shearling on the other. I actually really fell in love with the faux fur side – it’s very low-effort in that you can just throw it on and instantly have a statement look.
If you’re after something a little more classic, this chic silhouette ticks the boxes. It’s definitely generous on the sizing – it swamped all 5ft4″ of me and I sized down. In fact, all of Zara’s jackets feel a little bit more roomy this season, which is not often something I mutter about the brand.
The cut is structured and masculine with sharp shoulders and high side vents that elevate it – perfect for channelling a more wearable and affordable version of that coveted Frankie Shop aesthetic.
Here’s another bomber, this time in a more traditional flying jacket silhouette. The changing room photo makes it look like a matte navy, but in person, it’s actually a rich chocolate brown that makes it feel expensive, despite being faux leather. It also comes in a nice murky olive hue, but the brown came out on top. The plaid skirt is also Zara new-in, which I couldn’t resist taking home.
Astrid’s picks available online…
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.
