8 Zara Pieces I’m Recommending To My Clients Right Now (And Buying For Myself)

Zara feels like my home away from home. It’s my go-to for reliable basics as well as trend-forward items that don’t require financial planning. While the Spanish retailer certainly has its critics, Zara has long been a starting place for client work.

As three sister personal stylists, we’re often asked how to decide which fashion trends are worth engaging in. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we do often return to a simple rule of thumb: try an affordable version first before fully committing. When I’m personally interested in trying a trend, I’ll check Zara first. Then, if the piece proves itself and has a low cost per wear, it earns a more permanent spot in my wardrobe, and I’ll invest. 

Zara has long been a starting place for client work.

A recent example from my own closet? Zebra print. I got the coolest zebra print calf hair slingbacks from Zara (sadly, they’re sold out now) and I have worn them at least twice a week to the office since purchasing with no sign of slowing down anytime soon. I’m now eyeing the Khaite Ona ankle boot in Zebra as a higher-end investment piece. It’s almost like a science experiment. Test out your working style theories with an affordable retailer, track how often you’re reaching for said piece, and then if your hypothesis is correct, you then know that investing in a more expensive piece is likely going to be a sound of mind decision. 

Zara, in this sense, becomes the perfect incubator brand for experimenting with your style. So, without further ado, here are 8 trendy finds and chic basics from the retail love of my life.

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1. Flowy Satin Effect Fringed Top

Like we’ve discussed, Zara is my go-to when I clock a trend that piques my interest. I’ve always loved fringe details, but it’s a trend that I’m sometimes hesitant to commit to because it feels like it has a shorter cycle in the ecosystem of fashion trends. After admiring pieces from the likes of Simon Miller and the new fringe puzzle bag from Loewe, I’m on high alert for a (more affordable) fringe piece of my own. This fringe-focused top feels like the perfect starting point. I would pair it with leather shorts and a pair of platform heels for a fun night out.

2. Short Combination Ruffle Dress

This romantic dress feels reminiscent of a pair of shorts I just saved by Belgian designer Dries Van Noten. I’m noticing an uptick in pieces that feel uber feminine and almost Victorian-inspired, likely due in part to Margot Robbie’s recent press tour for Wuthering Heights, where her stylist leaned heavily into romantic, gothic details. If you tend to lean more tailored or edgy in your look, but are interested in branching out, Zara has several Victorian-inspired pieces that would be perfect to purchase and wear as a test run to try the trend. 

3. Striped Shirt with Ties

I actually own this top in the long-sleeve white version, and I’ve worn it at least once a week since purchasing. We’ve chatted about this before, but I often hear a misconception from my clients that basics have to be…well, really basic. While, yes, of course everyone needs a simple white ribbed tee and a great pair of jeans, I’ve found that my clients are actually more likely to wear basics that have a personal twist. The high neck and bow make this top feel very ‘me.’ I recommend styling it with a pair of straight leg or cigarette jeans and a vintage designer heel. 

4. Draped Balloon Top

My sisters and I have recently received several requests from our followers for pieces that can seamlessly go from the office to cocktails. This top may look simple, but I promise it’s a shape-shifter. Wear it to the office with a blazer and jeans, and then shed the blazer for drinks with your friends later in the evening. If you’re like me (extra), you’ll stop at a Starbucks and change into leather shorts and heels on the way to drinks. Yes, I have actually done this before. Anything for the look! 

5. Perforated Slingback Heels

Okay let’s talk Zara shoes because I feel very passionately about them. I probably have ten pairs in my wardrobe from sandals, to heels, to boots. They tend to hold up surprisingly well given the price point. Zara is also quick to adopt trending styles growing in popularity, making it my first stop for shoe shopping each season. I’m especially impressed by these crochet slingback heels. I sourced a $1,425 pair for our Spring Capsule Style Guide last week, but quickly added in this Zara pair as well to show clients how they can achieve the look for less. 

6. Beaded Print Pouch

A tip I’ve found that seems to particularly resonate with my clients is building monochromatic base looks and zhuzhing them up with funky accessories. This way you can easily change the overall aesthetic of the look without having to buy hundreds of items. For example, I would pair this beaded bag with a chocolate brown linen set and sandals for a more casual daytime look. That same chocolate set could be worn with a more elevated purse and heels for a nighttime look. Similarly, the purse would pair well with an elevated white dress for a glass of rosé in the summer with friends. 

7. Leather Heeled Sandals

These heels are the definition of a chic basic. At under $100 and made from 100% leather, this is a no brainer 'add to cart' for me. You would be shocked at the number of clients I work with that don’t own a black heel. This pair checks every box and I will be recommending them to my clients this Spring.

8. Sparkly Pin Brooches

If you’ve spent any time on social media lately, you’ve likely seen brooches all over your feed. This often overlooked accessory is making a comeback in a big way. In addition to finding them secondhand (or borrowing some from your grandmother’s closet), Zara has a few chic and affordable options. A styling hack for you: if the fear of damaging your clothes prevents you from exploring the brooch trend, buy these magnetic brooch pin covers. One side slides right over the pin of your brooch so that you don’t poke any holes in your clothing. 

Now, if you’re sad that you reached the end of the list, fear not, I have some honorable mentions to share. 

Metal Appliqué Bucket Bag

This Rabanne-esque purse will be your new go-to night out accessory. 

Crochet Mini Tote

She’ll be my new companion for Saturday farmer’s market runs. 

Extra Wide Leg High Waist Jeans

Zara used to have a style of jean called the Elephant Jean and I haven’t been able to find them again in several years. These look almost identical.

Short High Neck Trench Coat

I have found Zara’s trench coat selection to be both reliable and functional and I have a hunch this trench is no different. 

Balloon Poplin Top

I’m very interested in ordering this top and playing around with proportions. A cropped top with a high waist wide leg jean is a formula everyone should try. 

For me, Zara will always be a place to experiment. It’s where I test new silhouettes, trends, and often discover pieces that end up becoming permanent players in my closet. Remember though, it’s less about chasing trends, and more about refining your personal style in a low-risk environment. Sometimes my experiments lead to a forever designer investment, and sometimes they just add a bit of fun to my wardrobe for a year or two. When finding your true personal style is the goal, both outcomes are a win.

Elson, Bradford, and Frances Stewart are three sisters and personal stylists united by a shared love of fashion and a deeper commitment to uplifting women through intentional style. Together, they've guided clients of all ages, body types, and budgets through every season of life. Known for their thoughtful, confidence-building approach, the sisters blend elevated investment pieces with well-curated affordable finds to create wardrobes that feel both refined and deeply personal.

To book a styling service, visit www.poemaclothiers.com.