With the days getting longer and the temperature finally rising, it can only mean one thing: summer is on its way. And with the sunniest season ahead of us, I'm on a very specific style mission. This year, I'm determined to find luxury-looking items that will elevate my outfits without the burden of designer price tags, and when it comes to finding expensive-looking high-street pieces, Zara is always my first port of call. No matter the season, the brand perfectly blends classic and on-trend to create versatile clothing and accessories that will stand the test of time in your wardrobe without the risk of looking dated in years to come.
Aïda Badji wears tailored trousers from Zara
I've narrowed down the ultimate luxury-for-less summer capsule wardrobe to just nine key pieces. Think effortless yet stylish essentials that you can easily mix and match to look put-together for every occasion, from beach days to rooftop cocktail evenings. And luckily for me (and my bank balance), Zara covers the lot. From understated sandals to easy throw-on midi dresses, the Zara website is currently filled with affordable buys that could easily pass as high-end.
Whether you're simply looking for some extra bits to add to your existing outfits or are itching to start your summer capsule from scratch, below, I've rounded up the nine designer-looking staples from Zara to add to your summer wardrobe this year.
9 Classic Zara Pieces Making Up My Expensive-Looking Summer Capsule Wardrobe
1. Throw-On Midi Dress
Style Notes: When it comes to summer dressing, a reliable midi dress is the easiest item you can own. It's the kind of staple you can pull out and look great in whenever you don't know what to wear. Not to mention, it can easily be dressed up or down for any occasion with a simple change of footwear.
Shop Midi Dresses:
Polka-dot dresses are everywhere at the moment.
This looks way more expensive than its £30 price tag.
Simple, clean and easy to dress up or down.
2. Minimalist Sandals
Style Notes: A pair of minimalist sandals will go well with everything from breezy linen dresses to baggy denim throughout summer. Opt for neutral hues and natural fabrics that will make your entire outfit look expensive, even at a more affordable price point.
Shop Minimalist Sandals:
Everyone will think these are designer.
Fisherman sandals are a key summer footwear trend this year.
Every wardrobe needs a pair of simple, go-with-everything flat sandals.
3. White Shirt
Style Notes: Nothing says timeless like a crisp white shirt. Whether worn over a bikini at the beach or tucked into a pair of tailored trousers for the office, this classic item will serve you well no matter the occasion. And the best part? Zara currently has a wide range of shirts in natural fabrics, all for £60 and under.
Shop White Shirts:
100% linen for £30 is hard to come by.
Perfect for in or out of the office.
I'd style mine exactly like this.
4. Midi Skirt
Style Notes: In my opinion, you can never have too many midi skirts. They add instant polish to a summer outfit but still feel effortless. I'd opt for a poplin or A-line style and wear it with a tank top and suede sandals for casual days, and a silk blouse and low heels on summer evenings.
Shop Midi Skirts:
A pleated skirt will never date.
Wear with tanks, tees or lightweight knits.
The perfect holiday skirt.
5. Shoulder Bag
Style Notes: The practicality of a tote is undeniable, but when I want to look really chic, a sleek shoulder bag is my go-to. Opt for a clean silhouette and gold hardware to give your outfit that high-end look.
Shop Shoulder Bags:
Such a luxe-looking hue.
I love the way gold hardware is used here.
Animal print has become a neutral in my wardrobe.
6. Lightweight Jacket
Style Notes: Summer weather here in the UK is notoriously unpredictable, so a lightweight jacket is a must. Cotton, denim or linen are great choices for the warmer weather and can also take you into autumn with clever layering.
Shop Lightweight Jackets:
Zara's bomber jackets always sell out quickly.
Such a sophisticated fit.
Khaki denim? Yes, please!
7. Relaxed Jeans
Style Notes: Skinny jeans may have been trending this year, but personally, I don't think it gets much chicer than a relaxed silhouette. Barrel, baggy or wide-leg jeans in a lighter hue are my go-to for that French-girl-off-duty look I'm always trying to emulate.
Shop Relaxed Jeans:
White denim always looks fresh in summer.
I love this wash.
This brown pair will make a nice point of difference from your classic blue jeans.
8. Kitten Heels
Style Notes: You don't need to risk it all in a pair of towering stilettos to look elegant. Kitten heels remain walkable and look classy without having to compromise on comfort. Zara always has a plethora of kitten-heel options to choose from, but I particularly love the suede pair below for summer.
Shop Kitten Heels:
Thong sandals are having a moment.
These look so premium.
The perfect summer event shoe.
9. Summer Tailoring
Style Notes: Tailoring isn't just for autumn and winter. In fact, you'll be grateful for it when you want to look sophisticated at summer weddings, garden parties and other formal events. Simply opt for light and airy fabrics to keep cool in the hot weather.
Shop Summer Tailoring:
A waistcoat is a modern summer staple.
Tailored trousers that feel like pjs.
Bermuda shorts are great for when you don't feel like wearing trousers.
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