If there’s one thing you should know about me, it’s that I’m an avid Zara shopper. During my time as an editor (for 13 years), Zara has always been my go-to place for affordable, up-to-date items that help me adapt my wardrobe to each new season and set of trends. But that doesn’t mean I shop there blindly. In fact, I scrutinize my purchases at Zara more than any other, even designer brands. In truth, this is because I know that some of the items this brand produces can sometimes feel a little cheap, either in design or construction. Of course, these are not items that I would recommend, but you can find absolute gems at this high street retailer. You just need to know what to look for. And I certainly do.
I’ve developed a bit of a knack for spotting the most expensive-looking, well-made products on Zara’s site—an intuition that can only come from first-hand experience and taking your job seriously. From spotting products from the ZW Collection (the brand’s more directional collection, featuring premium fabrics and closer-to-designer pieces) to knowing what categories the brand does best, I can identify Zara’s next flagship products and bestsellers at a glance.
(Image courtesy of Zara)
Now, with the start of a new season upon us, I thought it was time to properly evaluate Zara’s pre-fall collection and identify the best shopping picks for you all. In my opinion, Zara collections reach peak chic in the fall, and this theory is proving to be true for fall 2024.
Pre-Autumn continues to embrace elegance in a big way, with an array of sophisticated knitwear, refined tailoring, and polished dresses and skirts. Colour-wise, there’s a lot of greenery derived from Blood Summer, but in a way that feels much more timeless than the neon hues we’ve seen in the past. There’s also a real attention to detail – from well-chosen gold buttons to the addition of tie necks to blouses, the whole Pre-Autumn collection feels much more considered than the Summer collection.
So what’s on my wishlist for pre-fall shopping from Zara? I’m glad you asked! Below are the 11 items that are currently in my basket, followed by a few extra items that I think are worth a look. Keep scrolling to get your fill of next season’s Zara items!
Shop ZARA’s Pre-Autumn Collection
Zara
Crossover blazer with contrast trim
This will take your style up a notch when paired with any item, including leggings.
Zara
Short trench style jacket
The perfect jacket for any season.
Zara
Strappy heel buckle shoes
These have been a hot topic in our Slack group, with every coworker saying they want a pair.
Zara
Zw Collection Double Layer Midi Skirt
I first heard it here, but double layer skirts are going to be huge this fall.
Zara
Chunky knit cardigan with Peter Pan collar
This is the cutest cardigan I’ve seen this season and it also comes in cream.
Zara
Zw Collection Mid-Rise Capri Trousers
The capri pants trend continues to be strong into fall, but has evolved into denim.
Zara
Zw Collection Peplum Top
It turns out that peplums look incredibly chic.
Zara
Lace-up fabric ballet flats
Flat shoes that you will likely wear a lot.
Zara
chunky knit cardigan
Zara
Satin-like dress with knot detail
Speaking of satin, this sky blue dress is perfect.
When it comes to statement earrings, Zara never fails to deliver, and these earrings are sure to be the next sell-out.
I can’t resist a striped shirt, especially one in a color I don’t already have.
Zara
Zw Collection 100% Leather Short Skirt
Leather skirts are considered a fall staple, but I love this patented version.
Zara
Zw Collection 100% Straight Leather Jacket
Zara’s leather products are going to be ridiculously expensive this fall.
Zara
Basic wool and cashmere blend sweater
Cashmere is always a good idea.
I saw this bag in store and it really looked like a designer bag.
Zara
Mules with bow detail
Brown satin is one of the most luxurious fabrics available.
It also looks great with a t-shirt or long sleeve tracksuit top underneath.
Zara
Belted stretch dress
It’s super cute, and when the temperatures drop, just pair it with some see-through tights and Mary Janes.
Zara
Satin blouse with knot detail
A chic addition to any top collection.
Pair this with the burgundy heels from my edit.
Zara
Sarouel pants with crease effect
This is a set that can be worn in a variety of ways.
Zara
Metallic yarn texture knit vest
Boucle textures always look very elegant.
This bag reminds me of Loewe.
I am obsessed with this neckline.
Zara
Zw Collection Shirt with Scarf
