A Fashion Editor Walks Into Zara With $250 (It's Me)—5 Items She Buys Instantly

It's about this time of the year when I crave a little newness in my wardrobe. Summer is winding down, fall is on the horizon, and I can still relish in summer fabrics and silhouettes yet easily add a touch of autumn to my look via a cozy knit, or a rich color palette.
Since summer was an expensive enterprise for me (that month in Europe really did it), I'm looking to add some trend-forward pieces to my wardrobe that won't break the bank. I made a beeline straight to Zara (of course!) with a $250 budget. I scooped up five gorgeous items which will see me through the end of summer and into fall in style. Below, I'm sharing my finds with you as well as additional new Zara arrivals I'm eyeing, loving, and wanting!
Keep scrolling below for the fashion-forward Zara pieces to consider buying right now.
5 Zara Items I Bought With a $250 Budget:
I was immediately drawn to the color and the gorgeous silhouette of this stylish shirt jacket. The thin belt cinches at the waist giving it a flattering look. Plus, green hues will be a massive trend this fall. This piece could seriously pass for designer.
I'm all about leaning into Chloé boho vibes this fall, and I'll be easing into the trend with this pretty ruffle blouse. It's romantic, charming, and perfect to wear now with linen pants and later with high-waisted jeans and boots.
Leopard print is a huge trend this fall and this chic mini skirt is is the perfect choice for a subtler take on the trend. I'll be pairing it with basic tees, cozy oversize sweaters, and black ballet flats.
I know it'll be fall soon, but my pedicured feet will still be wearing sandals for as long as humanly possible! Gold ring toe sandals that are having a moment right now and this Zara pair looks incredibly chic and elevated—easy to pair with skirts and pants alike.
Knit tops are starting to trickle to the forefront of my wardrobe, and when I saw this chic top with its unique gold buttons and gorgeous pale blue hue, I knew I had to have it. It's also very reasonably priced at $40.
Shop More Zara Items I'm Loving Right Now:
An LBD is classic and timeless. Style now with sandals and later with boots.
Silky satin scarves are the accessory of choice among the fashion set this season.
I'm obsessed with this skirt. Once the temps cool, I'll be styling it with relaxed crew neck sweaters.
A short sleeve knit will transition you through seasons seamlessly.

Judith Jones is the associate shopping director at Who What Wear and has worked in fashion for over a decade. She specializes in shopping content and trend stories with high-affiliate impact. She shares the coolest, most desirable fashion market finds and brands for every budget. Previous to working in fashion, Judith worked as a TV host on the PBS travel show Globe Trekker (airing on Netflix and Amazon Prime) sharing her passion for travel and culture.
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